Have you ever thought about how much that little insignia or motif that sits on the front of your car adds to its’ value? Some cars are more expensive than others and it isn’t just for the want of a different specification. What most people don’t realise is that many manufacturers use similar (or the same) platforms and even share engines. A good example is the 1.9 TDI that’s been an Audi staple for a good while. This is also shared with SEAT. VW also ran the same 1.9 TDI in their Golf.
If you’re in the market for a new or used car, remember that a simple badge can add significantly to the price. Why? Well, let’s put it another way. You go into Asda and there’s Asda’s own branded tin of tuna. Nothing wrong with it, but it might be in basic packaging. However, does the ‘John West’ stuff look more appealing? I’ve no doubt that the little coloured logo has more attraction to the eye. Are the basic components any different? Of course not.
Cars are just the same as the example above. They might be in a special place of their own being as they are uniquely designed to transport us places, but they are nonetheless a means for many manufacturers to draw out that extra penny from us, just because we want to be seen driving a particular brand around. Now, paying for something with a bigger engine, a more economical engine or indeed another extra that genuinely makes a difference to the experience, well that’s something different… I’m happy to spend a few bob extra to get the V6 instead of the standard 2 litre four cylinder…
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