Controversies of Long Standing.(automobile history)(Column)

Byline: Kevin A. Wilson

Some of the most divisive topics on today's automotive scene trace their historic roots to the publication date on this issue. The History Channel's This Day in History feature reminds us that Jan. 17, 1949, was the day the first VW Beetles arrived in America. Only a few sold that first year, but even after sales numbers rose, the car's influence was measured in far more than volume.

The real message of the Beetle's success was counter-cultural, the philosophy behind it being in direct opposition to the news from Detroit, circa 1949: tailfins, emblematic of the annual model change and of the automobile as status symbol. Eventually, the VW and its adherents argued that Detroit had it all wrong. The Beetle was the rolling antithesis of annual model changes, coddled comfort and expansive chrome. Detroit was also "wrong'' about built-in safety measures and emissions, but so was the VW. A little frugal reliability said a lot at the time.

Given that even economy cars today boast superfluous luxury features, the Beetle's enduring influence was in offering a genuine alternative in an age of conformity, and planting the idea that alternatives come from overseas. The evidence in communication from our readers is that views are still fiercely divided on these points. We hear routinely from those who believe everyone should buy domestic cars, regardless of quality, economy or the fit to the buyer's needs. We also hear from those who wouldn't cross the street to look at any Detroit product, regardless of logic. That we manage to irritate both camps may confirm our objectivity, though they don't see it that way.

Last year, domestic brands were still losing market share to foreign nameplates. The argument on globalization plays on the front pages. Malcolm Bricklin's return as an importer of low-priced cars for the frugal-minded, this time from China, may be seen as another attempt to revive the Beetle mentality.

All that, and more, traces to a couple of Beetles coming ashore 56 years ago in New York City. Go back another 50 ...