I noticed that Holden is selling a VE Commodore Omega with 18" wheels for just under $30k on the road.
I recall that about 17 years ago a Commodore Vacationer Wagon (manual) was quoted to me at something like $25k on the road.
A quick search on the internet reveals that the base price for a Commodore VN Executive sedan (manual) was about $20k and I recall that air conditioning was an option which added maybe $2k.
So if you could option up the VN with electric mirrors, electric windows, mags, cruise control and auto plus on road costs it is not too far away if not above today's Holden VE special price. That doesn't even count ABS and airbags!
My point is, in real terms, we are getting more car for less money.
Anyway just an observation.
Yup...and the money we have left now, get's handed to the government for stupid reasons.