[Dave Z]

The beltline on the original LX was hiked up to give the impression of safety, according to press releases. Most likely more than was needed. Mercedes at the time felt that Americans wanted to drive in tanks and gave the LX a heavy look and feel, accordingly.

IMHO, Americans who wanted to drive in tanks, bought SUVs.

 

[Dave Z]

Ha ha. A good point. It's like the eight-speed, they could have used a lever, pushbuttons, touch screen, eye location sensor, foot location sensor, ... okay, most of those would have been insane, but with electronic control, you have more choices.

 

[Dave Z]

Right eyebrow up = 4x4 Low
Left eyebrow up = 4x4 Lock
Both eyebrows up = Lock the brakes
Both eyebrows down = Honk the horn