Quote:
Originally Posted by Rob  Chris ....doesn't this, in reality, show very clearly that these cars are targeting the same market? |
They are targeting the same market, that's no secret. The only differences are in the type of people they're targeting in this market. As you said, the laid back approach that Mercedes has traditionally taken with the C-Class is something that appeals to a certain segment within this segment. The same applies to the BMW 3-Series, Lexus IS, Audi A4, Cadillac CTS etc. There are people in this segment that are won over by something a specific car offers or stands for.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rob I understand that the Merc has always had a more laid-back comfortable image than the 3er, but as you correctly said, even the 3er is bought by a conservative older market. |
Reality also dictates that not all cars are bought by their intended target market. I believe that 2/3's of BMW 3-Series buyers in America are simply after the badge, or desire a 3-Series because it is currently "hip" or "in" to drive one. The same applies to other brands.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rob In your first paragraph you say these cars are not competitors ....and yet the sales demographics would suggest they are. Traditionally, the BMW does appeal to younger buyers more than the Benz ....however, where the BMW wins out is it also sells well to an older market demographic too. |
Well they are competitors, but like I mentioned above, the appeal to different buyers within this segment. There are buyers who are purists and for them, the BMW 3er or Infiniti G are the only choices because they come with a manual transmission. Then you have luxury buyers, people who either want something comfortable or the badge. The list of different people in this segment goes on, and they're usually best served with one of these cars. Something in these cars fullfills their needs.