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Originally Posted by Xcaliber003
I think one problem other than advertising (finally saw an RL ad in a mag) is the image of the overall design.
The most successful mid-sized luxury sport sedans have a "stately" somewhat lengthy presence(not too long but enough to look "powerful"). One part of this "presence" is a long hoodlid. I know this is sounding left field but I'm getting to a point.
The first gen RL 'specially the 02-04 had longer more "stately" front ends. Their front ends were long and the front overhang was short, giving it a more luxurious, pricey, luxo car image. As we already know this mostly was due to the longitudinal engine layout, which helps put the motor behind the front axle and push the front wheels closer to the front corners.
But when the sec gen RL came out it had a tranversely mounted engine, which lead to the usual long "economy car" front overhang. If this wasn't enough to hurt the luxo car image they also added a cab forward windshield design. Similar to the ones on the Intrepids and things. This plus the long front overhang makes the front end look like a big Neon. No matter what they do to the design of the car if it continues to have a tranversely mounted motor and a cab forward design it will ALWAYS look like a large common bread and butter car(long NEON).
One perfect example even though it's not in the same class as the RL is Intrepid vs the 300C. Both are big ass cars, but the 300C has a different outline without cab forward design and a short hoodlid. Which car looks more "stately"?
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I completely agree. I said something about the fact that it's the engine placement...
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Originally Posted by B+O
Now if people are clamoring for RWD for the simple shape of the car, i can understand
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I believe that the longitudinal engine placement is key in the design of a car that is supposed to exude class and presence. it goes back to Custom Coach Works of the twenties and 30s.
loonnnng hoods with short little cabs at the back, non existant overhangs with a seemingly lower rear end, and short decklid. The Legend and RL pulled this look off, long front short front overhang, short rear deck, tall greenhouse.
The classic proportions of a luxury car.
Quote:
Originally Posted by BUSINESSMAN07
The RL loses bcuase its the fat jock everyone knows but no one talks to even though he is a star athlete.
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I can buy that