Lap times: are they really that important in road cars?

Lap times: are they really that important in road cars?

   Last time I checked cars weren't really about just numbers, and lately, car manufacturers seem to be obsessed with lap times, in particular, the Nurburgring times and in my opinion, I don't think that matters as they do appear to matter.   

  
 People who think a car is just numbers are really BORING... a car should be about the drama, the sound, the presence and the way it makes you feel when you drive it. Take for example the Porsche 911 R it was designed to be a pure petrolhead car, to give the most smiles you can get on a road trip, not how many seconds it will be faster around a circuit.  

   Don't take me wrong I am not saying that all cars should be like the 911 R and lap times don´t matter, lap times are very important these days, but I think car manufactures should pay more attention to cars where we can have the most fun instead of focusing in just how fast can go around a specific track.