David S. Wallens wrote: Wow, such controversy from a simple question. First, no, we're not taking the magazine upmarket. I personally don't think that a $12,500 Porsche sports car is exotic or unrealistic--especially considering that its value has only gone up. Also, realize that we do have a wide range of readers.As far as I can tell from being a reader over the last 12-14 years is that the magazine has already gone upscale to some degree. To be clear, that is not a complaint, but an acknowledgement that as the magazine has flourished and grown, it's editorial content and intent has escalated as well, mostly to the benefit of the readership, but with some pitfalls as well. Clearly you guys are very conscious of that, which is evident in your continued efforts to champion the "little guy on a budget" projects and events.
Whether it costs $12.5k or $100k, I think most still find 911s to be "exotic" comparatively, even if they're not completely unrealistic. You are totally correct about a $12.5k Porsche having good investment value, but to be honest, GRM is the last magazine I would read if I was interested in the relative investment value of a car. The thing I really like about GRM is it's as much about driving as building and/or owning, and investment seems to have minimal presence in the magazine. Please keep it that way.
I am a bit stunned to find 44% of readership has an income in excess of $100k/year. That would explain the rising interest, feedback, and content about higher level cars, events, and racing series. That stuff is totally legit, even if I often can't identify with it. But as long as the "DIY Porsche-killer for 1/2 the cost" articles don't disappear, I can live with the "DIY Ferrari-killer Porsche for 1/2 the cost" articles too.
