Where did the variety go?

fastmiata wrote: Offering too many options and versions is one of the reasons that the Big Three didnt make it intact to 2010. Economically, the one size fits all model works. It just aint much fun and doesnt fit if you are on the extreme edges of the model. By definition, that is the bulk of GRM readership.

I kind of agree, but for a different reason. As with ALL one size fits all things, it fits NO ONE. But with respect to the Big Three, it is the packages they put together. Why do I want 18" wheels to get the high powered radio and vice versa? The same thing can be said with the other thread about manual transmissions. It seems like every upgrade package includes the auto trans which should be a totally separate box to check off.

I'm also going to say the OSFA model actually keeps a lot buyers away. Just have to look at my previous statements. I mean look, I want to purchase a brand new GT500. I know I have to purchase the performance pack to get the plasma fine wire sprayed aluminum 5.4 block, the option I want, fine. But why do I want to have the E36 M3ty Sync/Nav/Shaker 500 stereo added? It is already 700# overweight with all the power seats, 70 airbags, crappy adjustable multiple colored dash illumination, etc.... Just because it is available technology, doesn't automatically mean, I "need" it and therefore "wants" it. Or why can't I buy my GT500 in Grabber Blue and can NOT get the Grabber blue interior accents?

pete240z wrote: I walked into the Elburn, Illinois Chevrolet dealer.........deposit? nah, we'll order it for you. Four weeks later I had a new S10 4x4 Blazer.

THAT'S how you sell a car!

In reply to Dr. Blade: Those are 1969 Chevrolet Impalas.

Ranger50 wrote: I I believe they only get a certain number of vehicles they can order per quarter/year. Their only way to get more vehicles to to sell more vehicles.

Almost right...they can only order x number of a particular model per quarter at the preferred price. They can order as many as they want, but dealer price goes up quick if they order too many special order vehicles...at least this was the scenario when the wife and I ordered our new Terrain this time last year.

Stealthtercel wrote: How does this square with the mantra we keep hearing (every ten years, if it's Chrysler) that "From now on, we're turning over a new leaf: we won't build a car unless somebody orders it"? Or is this just bafflegab and it's really still Business as Usual?

That is pretty much how they're operating now - except the "somebody" is a dealer, not end customer.

Ive said it before, why not have car companies go Factory direct? Have car lots with a few sample models to drive and play with, but no cars for sale. Build cars as they are ordered by the customer. Dell did it, and it paid off HUGE. keep overhead down through reduced throughput, and pass the savings to the customer.

My dad special ordered his Liberty* in...'08, maybe?.

At least, he was going was going to until the salesman called him the next day to say they'd found one for a transfer that was close enough for his needs.

(*Diesel, before you start getting any ideas.)

4cylndrfury wrote: Ive said it before, why not have car companies go Factory direct? Have car lots with a few sample models to drive and play with, but no cars for sale. Build cars as they are ordered by the customer. Dell did it, and it paid off HUGE. keep overhead down through reduced throughput, and pass the savings to the customer.

I think there are anti-trust issues here as it'll pretty much nix the competition between dealers if it's the big three doing. OTOH my understanding is that this is exactly how Tesla sells the Roadster.

So maybe you can have what you want if you're willing to spend enough.

The last four cars that I bought were all special order by me. Three from Ford and one Jeep. Each took about 4 weeks except for the Fiesta but that is another story. Hurricanes, recalls etc. Never had a problem with any of the dealers.