Hollywood and the car industry have a lot in common. not least of which is penchant for re-hashing old classics. Whether it is Starsky and Hutch or the Fiat 500, warming up something that was previously a favourite is now a clearly defined modus operandi for both. Following this path can be a double edged sword however, because while you are borrowing an established image, you are also messing with people's fond memories of pastimes.

By and large the motor industry has been more successful than Hollywood, witness the success of the BMW Mini up against the modern version of The Italian Job. Having said that, one of the worst reincarnations was the new version of the Beetle. VW products tend to drive well, handle nicely and be styled in a way that marks them out as being classy and classless. The new Beetle however, was none of these things.

The new, new Beetle is sadly following a similar path. Aimed squarely at people with no interest in cars or driving, it will probably sell like hot cakes.

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