GM insists on FWD

Boiler · January 22nd, 2006, 07:35 PM

I cant say I really agree with this, the Saab part yes but with the way technology is now there really is no excuse to not have rwd cars.

"Informal Survey Time

By Jack Keebler
GM Director--Advanced Concepts Group

One of the things that GM would like to better understand is the level of enthusiasm for rear-wheel drive versus front-wheel drive, particularly for young buyers of compact and sub-compact cars. Our belief is that front-wheel drive cars can be very rewarding to drive if properly set up. We also like the interior packaging space advantages, low mass and poor-weather traction of front-drive vehicles.

At Saab, there is a long and storied tradition of fast, reliable rally cars. These cars fed significant power through the front wheels and yet remained stable and entertaining to drive, which proved particularly important in long-distance races.

At auto shows we're starting to see many small rear-drive concepts.

What do you think, should we work toward fun-to-drive front-drive or is rear-drive with all-wheel drive a better solution?"

http://fastlane.gmblogs.com/

NOITALL · January 23rd, 2006, 01:20 AM

The replies on that blog hurt my brain... but GM needs to ignore what enthusiasts want and start building a car for the masses that the masses WANT.

Enthusiasts comprise such a small percentage of the market that tailoring a complete model line to them is stupid for GM at this point. The solstice is a great offering, build a coupe version and leave it at that.

Mark O · January 23rd, 2006, 04:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Craig201MPH

The replies on that blog hurt my brain... but GM needs to ignore what enthusiasts want and start building a car for the masses that the masses WANT.

Enthusiasts comprise such a small percentage of the market that tailoring a complete model line to them is stupid for GM at this point. The solstice is a great offering, build a coupe version and leave it at that.

Front wheel drive is cheaper to build. The bean counters win.

**Chuck 98 RT10** · January 23rd, 2006, 04:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mark O

Front wheel drive is cheaper to build.

I've heard that but why are they cheaper? Seems to me RWD parts having been around since the beginning of time would be cheaper.

NOITALL · January 23rd, 2006, 03:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chuck 98 RT10

I've heard that but why are they cheaper? Seems to me RWD parts having been around since the beginning of time would be cheaper.

The complete drivetrain assemblies come into the plant in one piece from an outside supplier. Couple of bolts and its in vs. bolting in engine, tranny, driveshaft, rear diff, rear suspension....

It's also really compact so its cheaper to ship.