Letters.

Avoid the CAD

In reference to Ferrari's 599 GTB Fiorano ("The Beast Within,'' May 22): Ferrari and Pininfarina are passing through one of the less-fertile periods in their long, illustrious partnership. I blame this in large part on the advent of computer-aided design. While all Ferraris since the 360 Modena have a powerful presence, they lack the elegant simplicity and purity of line of many of their predecessors. The 599 GTB suffers from an overdose of what the Japanese called "surface excitement,'' i.e., too many design details that distract the eye. The simple, "less is more'' beauty of the Miura, Mangusta and Daytona are sorely missed by this old-school enthusiast.

David Hepp, Austin, Texas

Who needs IRS?

Regarding comments the Mustang should have an independent rear suspension ("Something Old, Something New,'' June 12): I would have preferred IRS, but Ford chassis engineers deserve credit for their revised solid-axle suspension. In October 2004 I drove in an SVT owners association track event at Indianapolis Raceway Park on a bumpy, cracked-surface road course. With my slightly modified '96 SVT Cobra, the ride was rough and the back end jumped out when crossing over the cracks-disconcerting when powering out of a turn. SVT offered two-lap rides in a 2005 GT at the hands of a Ford engineer. From the passenger seat I was impressed with how the GT soaked up the bumps, always felt in control, and never kicked the rear out.

Steve White, West Bloomfield, Mich.

Porsche's price drop