Dear 001,
Just glancing down some the comments on your "Coolest Cars" feature on the new A Class versus Mini and Beetle last week, I felt some misconceptions needed addressed.
Some readers seem to think MB are planning to sell this car in the US. They are not. The A Class was one of the most successful and popular Mercedes-Benz of all time built for the needs of Europe and this new car with major improvements across the board in terms of styling, dynamics, performance and interior quality/ambience should build its tremendous popularity.
Perhaps you could make that point.
Also, as you know, next year MB will introduce a range of cars in the sports tourer category that were inspired by America and built with the US market in mind.
Let's also not forget the world's coolest car brand, as voted by a number of European style mag's and opinion formers, Smart - breaking the mold and showing that retro really is a thing of the past!
The Montvale Mole
Dear Montvale Mole,
I think there is room for both 'retro' interpretations AND 'modern' designs (depending on the situation).
Don't mean to sound like John Kerry here :).
I think both will do well because they appeal to different audiences. Some people like the classics, and some prefer modern. That will never change in my opinion.
Also, they same customer will flip flop between the two at different stages of their lives. I think the word 'retro' is not the right description, it should be 'classic'.
001
As always, we want to hear your opinion in our blogs....Who is right? The Montvale Mole or 001?