GM's flip-flop: The last of the V-8 Interceptors

The V-8 in a practical platform is a dying breed. GM flip-flopped regarding the excellent Pontiac G8 GT/GXP. This Australian-built rear-drive sedan was doomed to die with the brand. Then Bob Lutz stated there was a business case as a Chevrolet and we briefly rejoiced. Then the flop: No-go for the obtainable V-8 sedan from GM. http://www.autoweek.com/article/20090717/CARNEWS/907179998

Remember in Mad Max, Mel Gibson's character was presented with the "Last of the V8 Interceptors." Granted it was actually a fake-supercharged GT351 version of a 1973 Ford XB Falcon Hardtop but the point is valid again. If you're like me, you'll never forget that phrase. And that probably means you don't want to slap your forehead and say, "I coulda had a V-8!". The V-8 cars are disappearing and it's a sign of the times. They are becoming the last of the finest. The cliches are becoming more and more meaningful.

The pedigree and performance of the domestic V-8 has been famous (or infamous) worldwide for decades. The sound alone is revered. Ford V8s dominated at LeMans in the 60s and Chevy Corvettes won multiple times this decade. Look at NASCAR, Drag Racing and even for foreign makes such as Ferrari, Porsche, BMW and Mercedes. The G8 GT and GXP sedan offers great utility and performance for the price, as does the 300C/Charger platform. But now, with the (forced) movement towards higher mileage, the troubled domestic manufacturers will eliminate the V-8s from the sedans. Even Ford's performance sedan, the new Taurus SHO, is a turbocharged 6-cylinder.

Are we required to drive more fuel efficient cars? Not if we don't want to. What if we actually use the car for what it's designed for? Contrast that with the hundreds of thousands of pick-up trucks with empty and unused beds and SUVs when a station wagon, minivan or sedan can do do just as well. Don't even get me started.

The imports recognize the desirability of V-8s and can continue to offer them profitably. But now for the 2009 model year, Audi dropped the V8 in favor of a supercharged V6. I believe this is an early indicator for overseas manufacturers. But GM is making a mistake by not offering this car which will sell when there is so much duplicity in their current line-up. Unfortunately it's a sign of the times and foreshadowing an unfortunate end for those that want their fun and practicality on a budget. I've got one more: Get'em while you can.

Photo: The V-8 in the Corvette C5R race car.