Well, it is to be expected isn't it? Audi's sister company; Lamborghini's Gallardo comes in both coupe and convertible bodystyles. As since Audi has already admitted that a V10 version of the R8 is already in works, it shows that Volkswagen Group's management has decided to throw caution into the wind that a V10 R8 will eat into the Gallardo's sales. The R8 has been given the green light to match the Gallardo. A decision which I believe is a correct on a gut feel level.
Conventional marketing wisdom of minimizing cross-segment selling and sales cannibalisation do not apply in the supercar market. People buy supercars because of emotions (more of ego actually). How can you explain why would somebody prefer a Gallardo over a R8 or a 911 or F430? Going by that logic, it makes sense to match what a Gallardo is offering - from bodystyles to engine performance. The only differentiating factor between the two "sister cars" are the emotions they ooze. The Audi is slightly clinical, slightly geeky with its aluminium space frame and MMI user interface giving it a very hi-tech feel and image. Lamborghini is all about flamboyance and passion. To put it simply, the Lamborghini Gallardo is a star at Akon's Smack That MTV. The Audi R8 starred in Ironman as Tony Stark's ride.
Tony Stark's R8. Image from Fourtitude.
And of course, being a geek, I am more Audi than Lamborghini. There is a reason why they call themselves Vorsprung durch Technik. They identify themselves by geometrical shapes - 4 circular rings. A circle is a perfect geometrical shape - given its perfect symmetry and optimal space efficiency. Ancient cultures associate circles with divinity and longetivity. The Lambo, on the other hand, has a raging bull on its nose. And I don't associate myself with bulls...
Test drive by Auto Zeitung.
1 comments:
I aspire to strength (spiritual, mental, physical) and knowledge.
The bull signifies strength. Lambo for me.
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