Quote:
Originally Posted by 280driver
Well, my point was that the Z should represent more to the brand than simple unit margins. Make good margins on all the high volume models so you can afford less margin on the Z. The Z represents the brands sportiness better than the GTR to many people because it's historically more recognizable and obtainable. If you want better sales, keep the car updated and competive. Spend some on marketing and incourage grass roots racing. I'm very happy with my 280Z but am hoping for a modern equivalent to add to the stable (I love the 370 too). Come on Nissan, don't loose your identity.
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I agree, and thats exactly what they have been doing. The high volume units support the low volume niche products. Fortunately, they have kept the 370Z and not discontinued it as of late. Problem is the bean counters, they do not understand identity, brand image, heritage or legacy, and they dont care to. Its a constant battle between the marketing team and the banker types - to keep this type of car in production.
At one point in time, Ford was losing money on every car model they built, and was surviving only on the F-150 sales. Then gas went to $5/gal and F-150 sales tanked, and the Focus was their best margin product and they couldnt make enough of them lol..