TO THE EDITOR:
Regarding "Ford aims to spread Mustang's DNA" (Aug. 27), time will tell whether the brand is making the right move by dropping sedans from its U.S. lineup. But if Ford dilutes the Mustang DNA into a line of lumpy SUVs, it would be a huge mistake. A Mustang SUV, crossover or anything other than a rear-wheel-drive coupe/convertible sporty car would dilute the Mustang's image.
Sharing a platform with a light truck would surely cause compromises. At least General Motors uses a dedicated car platform for the Cadillac ATS and Chevrolet Camaro. Is Ford trying to justify the move away from sedans by trying to convince itself that it can build a real Mustang on a shared truck platform?
Ford made a mistake by diluting the Lincoln DNA over decades to the point of passing off gussied-up Ford cars and trucks as premium-brand vehicles. Look how well that worked.
Furthermore, why would Ford want to compete with the aging all-wheel-drive Dodge Challenger?
To add insult to injury, to even think that the Mach I name should be associated with anything other than a performance Mustang shows shallow, narrow-minded thinking on the part of Ford executives.
Ford seems to be content thinking within the box. It must be a comfortable place to hide.
BARRY BONGIOVI, Sales consultant, Elite AutoSearch, Morristown, N.J. The company is an automotive purchasing and leasing agency.