Remember when BMW thought like this..

[kmarei]

just read this in a review of the Peugeot 508

"Although Peugeot's engineers considered fitting the 508 with a fully electric steering system, they judged the loss of feel not worth the efficiency gains. An increasingly unusual decision, but one, as enthusiasts, we should be thankful for."

[5erman]

I see the point you are getting at-but as a bit of a side-track specifically regarding the steering. there is nothing inherently "better" with a power steering pump driven steering v. electric steering. It is just different but neither one communicates better with the road etc. We have just gotten used to the old way and yes it feels differently but I dont think that is a good arguement for not embracing new technology that increases performance and effiiciency.

Electric power steering, A/C, alternator, water pump and brakes will all be the norm very soon. Even the camshaft will be old news when it is all computer drive valves. You have to embrace the new technology and not fall behind and get stuck in a rut of nostalgia.

[kmarei]

well increasing performance is one thing
giving me a force feedback sort of steering wheel is another
i guess i should start playing gran turismo and get some practice for cars of tomorrow