First of all I had to laugh when I read Metricman's Post.

My Reason for the Strubrace is to my knowledge which does not have to be correct, but anyway here it goes. I was told that it gives more strength to the front of the Chassis.
And it would distribute the Forces whilst cornering evenly between both shockabsorbers.

As for the Boot lock I would say the Star would look far more majestic without the look underneath I thought I might connect it with the central locking so I can open it remotely. Like the new S-class has got. Very useful.
I think but this is only my opinion.

Regrads Toby