Topic > Marketing - 1424

The five cars chosen included the following: a Ford pickup truck, a Buick sedan, a Toyota minivan, a Porsche 9-11 Turbo, and a Mercedes Benz C-Class. The individuals' personalities varied by gender , age, way of dressing and other distinctive characteristics. They consisted of a twenty-one year old white female; a thirty-four year old black male; and a fifty-two year old Hispanic male. These three individuals, from different demographics, were asked to match each of the five people in the personality groups with one of the five cars that most accurately described their personality. After analyzing the results of the responses of the individuals, many strong homogeneities emerged in their responses. All three respondents perceive the Mercedes Benz C-Class as an amazing car and the second most expensive of the entire group. The price range of this vehicle is estimated to be around $32,000 - $100,000. They consider the Mercedes Benz to be a sophisticated car that would be best suited to individuals aged thirty and above who have successful careers. These interviewees also associate people who appear rich and classy with Mercedes. They match Asian woman with this car because it looks very trendy and sophisticated. One interviewee says he's always imagined Asian women driving luxury cars and never thought to ask why, until now. The next car analyzed is the Toyota minivan. This van is perceived as a typical family vehicle. Toyota minivan price ranges from $25,000 to $38,000. Interestingly, respondents combine the mother's family with the minivan. It is seen as a spacious and safe car, perfect for a large family or even a three-member family. One interviewee assumes that the "soccer mom" would fit into this car to fulfill her household duties, such as carpooling and grocery shopping. When Carlos, the fifty-two-year-old Hispanic, is presented with the photo of the "soccer mom" he immediately matches it with the minivan. She states, “Everyone knows soccer moms drive minivans because they have kids and carpools to look after.” She also explains that minivans are considered safe cars, which would be a priority for a mother. Plus, this woman is dressed like a typical mom. The Porsche 9-11 Turbo is perceived as a fun and serious car.