production vehicle analysis

2012 Honda Civic

Proportions: wedge shaped. However, the higher ride height lets us know that this is not a supercar. The strong, sharp lines also indicate sportiness. The smooth roof line that goes all the way to the back of the car hints that the car has been wind tunnel tested – another indicator of its sportiness. The design communicates that this is a sporty sub-compact.

Ferrari 458:

Proportions: Wedge shaped, the silhouette is lower in the front than in the rear. The wedge shape, combined with the extremely low ride height gives the car a sense of sportiness and speed. The lines of the car are sharp and flowing, resulting in a feeling of aggressiveness.  The design does communicate the purpose of the vehicle – it’s easy to see that this is a fast sports car.

Smart ForTwo:

Proportions: very short overall length with short overhangs. About 2.5 wheels fit between the front and rear wheels. The almost cartoonish proportions gives the car a sense of friendliness. The two tone graphics makes it seems like the car is encased in a frame (the silver painted area), and was probably done to give the car a sense of safety even though it is so small. The design does communicate the purpose of the vehicle – a small, safe city car.