By the mid 1980's, the automotive generation gap that began in the early 1970's, became even bigger as the foothold for prestige brands, like Mercedes Benz and BMW, became stronger. Suddenly, a BMW became the ride for young, urban, professionals while the Blue hairs continued to by Lincolns and Cadillacs. It would take nearly thirty years to bridge the gap.
By '86, what discriminating taste makers demanded could not be found in a Lincoln or Cadillac show room. Save for a price, a softer ride, and a preference to drive a rolling wedding cake, why would anyone opt for a Town Car over a BMW or Mercedes? Habit? An oblique patriotism manifesting itself in misguided obligation?
GM and Ford have long hawked Cadillacs and Lincolns that were little more than gussied up versions of plebeian offerings. Toyota, Nissan, Acura, Volkswagen (and others) do the same so it's not just "us" that do it. It's the only way large manufacturers can compete with independents, like BMW and Mercedes, at the boutique level.
What's important, is that buyers can't tell that their Lexus is actually a Toyota in a tux. The plastic wood trim and ersatz, baroque styling of the '80s Town Car could only do so much to disguise that underneath, the Town Car was a Ford Crown Victoria. Liberace was not impressed.
I have ridden in many modern Town Cars when I take taxis or limo services. It looks like they have come quite a long way since the 80s. The newer cars are much more luxurious and stable. I'm sure the Town Car was great for it's time in the 80s, but it hasn't been able to withstand the test of time.
ReplyDeleteDamion Lincoln @ Jacky Jones Lincoln