As far as the 7-Series, I guess we'll have to leave it at "to each his own". Actually, I've only seen probably fewer than twenty or so examples around here since its introduction, and this area is heavily populated with BMWs and Benzes. I just can't get over that awful hump in the rear that passes as a trunk (boot) lid and which looks as if it was transplanted from an entirely different make of car. And the front end, as well, with its over-styled headlamp treatment, which has been described as the "Kabuki" look, and seems even more pronounced on the new 5-Series. It just bothers me that BMW has chosen to put so much emphasis on styling that borders on gimmickry. And speaking of gimmickry, it seems that the company has gone off the deep end of weirdness with such fooishnesss as I-Drive, or whatever, which has been just about universally derided in the automotive press. What's the point?
Tellingly, I have a friend who owns a Z3 who tells me that he wouldn't go for a Z4 based on its odd styling, and another friend who has a 2003 3-Series who expressed a similar lack of interest in the newer genearation, across the range. It's been my observation that the Z4 has not been selling nearly as well as the Z3 around here, as I've only seen a handful. But there might be other factors, such as price or reliability--I just know that they're not exactly plentiful, while the Z3s are a dime a dozen, locally.
Re that Fiat photo--I actually think it's not a bad looking car, except for the grillwork and surrounding area, which could be cleaned up nicely. But I'm afraid the sound of it rusting away would keep me awake nights.
And that Rover? Fuggeddaboutit--it reminds me of nothing more than that steaming pile in that BMW "ad."
Oh, well. Those older Volvos are starting to look pretty good again.