[Number 3]

There are a coupld of ways to look at this.

First, do you have enough HP to move the car in an adequate manner. For example, the CTS-V tips the scales in the direction of "hefty". But with 305 HP it moves quite nicely and with 556 it moves VERRRRY nicely. But reduced weight would allow better acceleration and better FE. But that isn't critical in that class of vehicle.

The other way is efficiency. What it the weight of the car relative to it's size. Yes the Mustang weighs less, but it is a smaller car. So scale up a Mustang to the exact dimensions of the Camaro now what does it weigh? And also consider the interior......how much space for the driver and passenger relative to weight.

And one more cost vs. mass. Yes a Corvette Z06 is very light for it's size. Hundreds of pounds less than a Porche with nearly the same wheel base. But aluminum frame, $$$$. Carbon Fiber Fender inner, upper cowl, floor panels, etc/, $$$$. Magnesium cradle, $$$$. So will the cost of those come down to the Cruze class? Don't think so unless fuel gets so high the average customer will pay for it.

But essentially, most cars have body structures that can hold roof crush loads to 2 1/2 times the weight of the car. So the 3,850 pound Camaro can withstand almost 10,000 pounds applied to the top of the A-pillar. It has more airbags than seats or wheels. It has enough control modules and electronics to exact world domination. Plus optional features like OnStar, HUD, Rear Park Assist etc.

It's tough to get a car to weigh less than 3,000 pounds and still have features and meet all the safety standards. I think my Sky is 2,950?? But that's two seats and SMALL.

So I kind of look at the weight of any car and compare it for it's size. But when you see the weight of the Volt for example you'll be shocked...............until you realize there is a 400 pound battery pack in there somewhere.

So a 4,000 plus luxury car makes perfect sense just as a 3,200 pound Corvette does. You have to consider what it is.............what it does............and what it's made of.

Good thread though and good discussion.