Ongoing Feature: LAP 1

The greatest cars of all time . . . According to body type.

Conversations about the GOAT can be relatively nebulous, let's face it each generation will write its own narrative about who or what is greatest of all time. The discussion can be heated, exciting and entertaining, but ultimately with no resolution in sight as comparing generations without bias is impossible. Perhaps, notwithstanding Pele, Michael Jordan, Don Bradman, Babe Ruth and The Beatles to name a few, none of us will ever agree on who is the greatest of all time at a task that is probably quite arbitrary. This discussion is probably even more complex in cars due to different variants, purposes, pursuits and cultures that exist within the car world. 

Nonetheless, I have decided to embark on this journey and contribute to an important, uniquely pointless, and extremely interesting discussion of what is the greatest car of all time. The proviso however is naming the greatest car for each body type. So rather than comparing the Lamborghini to an Audi RS2, which would be like shaving a Barbie doll's head (pointless yet slightly amusing), I decided it would be sensible to name the best car for each of the body types named below.

The Body Types:

1. Hatch Back

2. Sedan

3. Station Wagon / Estate Car

4. SUV

5. Ute / Pick-Up Truck

6. Minivan / People Mover

7. Convertible

8. Coupe

Firstly I know there are more categories coming to light compact SUVs, and that the SUV category could really be divided into legitimate 4X4 and soft-roaders for example. However in essence the body style is the same with the mechanical underpinnings and capabilities therein being the defining feature.

Secondly the criteria. I considered making the comparisons, and final decision based on scientific principles of personal bias, whimsy, and limited research, however, given my standing in the automotive world and high level of integrity, I decided that wouldn’t fly. Therefore I will need some criteria, set out below. I have a theory that for someone or something to be considered the greatest it needed to change the proverbial landscape by forcing those around them to keep up. So this will be the first and most definitive of the criteria. I’ve also decided to focus on Australian-built and/or delivered cars. No point speculating on cars I have neither driven nor seen in the flesh.

1. Influence on changing, challenging, or advancing the status quo of the segment. Slightly esoteric, but important nonetheless. Therefore timing will be an interesting variable as some cars were ill-received initially, but revisionists recognised their value later. 

2. Performance. My love is for performance, essentially handling and speed. I don’t care for practicality, load space, or cup holders. For 4X4 performance will be viewed slightly differently.

3. Technological and/or mechanical advancement

Thirdly, I will put together a short list, with a brief spiel on each contender, and an extended write-up on the winner. Contenders will be based on my knowledge, experience, and extensive research (sometimes going beyond page one of a Google search).

I’ve also focussed on cars I know and have had some experience with. That is to render this exercise more authentic than speculative. I trust this will generate debate, challenge some preconceived ideas and encourage others to contribute cars that I may have missed.

Why this approach? I’ve never seen it done!

Lap 2: Hatch Backs

https://www.theburntclutch.com/feature-article/ongoing-feature/lap-2-hatch-backs