The New Beetle Isn’t So New

As you can plainly see, this uncamouflaged 2012 VW Beetle has undergone a few cosmetic enhancements. As well it should, it hasn’t been to the Wolfsburg Surgeon since its introduction in 1998. In 14 years, most cars go through two, if not three, bodystyle changes. 

As you’ll notice, the ’12 model bears a striking resemblance to the second cousin of its great-great-great-grandfather, the Porsche 356. 

1994 Renault Espace F1

X-Ray goggles used to maximum effect here.

The eminently practical category that is Minivans has lost favour with the masses, as you already know, replaced by higher-margin crossovers and oddly-hatched trucks. Unsurprisingly, manufacturers are more than happy to oblige, especially after years of gouging each other’s eyes out with hefty minivan incentives. But when I was just a boy, the minivan was not only ubiquitous, but some were very nearly cool. 

On the metaphorical back of Brawn GP’s utter domination of Formula 1 in 2009, were several impressive story lines for the 2010 season, such as:

"Seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher returns to the sport after a 3-year retirement."

"Mercedes brings back its factory team to the sport after a 55-year hiatus (and they’re using the double World Championship Brawn GP as a foundation!)"

And other such headlines that I could have just as easily made-up. So why didn’t the picture above turn into the picture below? Y’know, with the hardware like Sebastian Vettel is holding? Good question. Mercedes GP and its returning saviour, Schumacher, failed to manage even a single podium, even with megamind technical director Ross Brawn scheming in the background.