Regarding what it takes to be an "exotic"

I think it has to be out of reach of mere mortals. In that regard the S2000 will never be an exotic. It is better, it is a GREAT Sports Car that is within reach of the average person and that is what is going to make it one of the greatest sports cars in history.

ANY competent car company can make a great car for LOTS O MONEY but it takes true creative genius to produce a great car for a reasonable amount of money.

 

Great post. I think we definitely have to give the Germans the nod for the best engineering and execution of an automobile. The British have always had great engineering and lousy execution. The Japanese, while not totally derivative, know how to take the best of a number of technologies and improve upon them. they didn't invent the TV, VCR or automobile, but they design and produce the very best ones in the world for the best price. The American automobile industry is also owed a debt of gratitude even though their product quality has been a little dubious in years past.

A gentleman from GM whose name I can't recall taught the japanese auto industry about the assembly line and quality control. This all started in the afore-mentioned 50-year timeframe. Also recall that America helped both Japan and Germany rebuild their industrial infrastructures after WWII, and now they pretty much kick our butts in the market place. Pretty much makes me wonder who rally won the war.

 

When Sochiro Honda started to build bikes to race at the Isle of Mann TT (the worlds most insane bike race) he studied the German NSU motorcycles that were dominant at the time. He knew who the best were and dedicated his efforts to first match them, then beat them.

He did. Honda has won more Isle of Mann TT (102) races than any other manufacturer.

Rest in peace Joey Dunlop.