The Reliability Crisis in Luxury Sports Cars of the 1980s: An Engineer’s Perspective

Introduction

For those who have ever dreamed of owning a Lamborghini, Ferrari, or Porsche, the allure of these luxury sports cars is undeniably strong. However, in the 1980s, these high-end vehicles faced a unique challenge: their unreliability. It wasn't uncommon for these exotic cars to spend more time in repair shops than with their owners. This article delves into the reasons behind this reliability crisis and how the concept of built-in obsolescence played a significant role in shaping the automotive industry during this period.

Built-In Obsolescence and the Failure of Simple Repairs

It is a well-known concept that certain products are designed to fail more quickly so that consumers need to replace them more frequently. This is especially true for products that are inherently maintenance-intensive. My friend, who was an engineer at Westinghouse, encountered this firsthand when he suggested replacing a plastic part with a metal one in a hair dryer. His boss, however, warned him that if the dryer was made to last longer, no one would need to buy a replacement, thereby harming the company's profits. In the automotive world, similar practices were employed to ensure that car owners became dependent on the manufacturers for maintenance and repairs, rather than being able to perform routine tasks themselves.

Complexity and Reliability: The Cost of Luxury

Exotic cars, by definition, are rare and designed to be unique. This exclusivity, however, is often accompanied by excessive complexity. The inherent complexity of these vehicles, such as needlessly intricate engine designs, can lead to significant issues. When a car needs extensive maintenance that requires the engine to be removed, it effectively locks the car owner into a specific network of dealers or specialized mechanics. This dependency is then used as a marketing strategy to sell these cars, with dealerships often touting the idea that if you can afford to buy a Ferrari, you can afford to maintain one as well.

The Case of Aston Martin: From Junk Cars to Market Leaders

Another perspective comes from my acquaintance, who worked for Aston Martin as a racing driver and later as an instructor for new buyers. Aston Martin, once a brand known for producing unreliable vehicles, experienced a dramatic transformation after Porsche entered the market. Porsche demonstrated that big-name cars could be reliable, thereby setting a new standard. Aston Martin, along with other luxury car brands, had to overhaul their designs and manufacturing processes to meet these expectations.

Design Flaws and Customer Retention

A specific anecdote that reinforces these points is a story about Aston Martin's body design. The company's cars were so poorly designed that the first time a customer opened the doors, they would crease the fenders significantly. During a visit to the factory, one customer discovered this flaw and demanded a refund, stating, "Not mine it doesn't." This incident highlights the extent to which these cars were plagued by design flaws, contributing to their reputation for unreliability.

Conclusion

The reliability crisis in luxury sports cars of the 1980s was a result of a combination of market strategy, design choices, and a deliberate focus on built-in obsolescence. While these cars continue to be coveted for their style and status, their reliability issues serve as a cautionary tale about the unintended consequences of excessive complexity and engineered failure. Understanding these factors can help current and potential car buyers make more informed choices when it comes to luxury sports cars.