The origin of the centre pod is tradition, which in this case reigns over common sense. Common sense being that with a handbuilt car, those that want the main dials in front of the driver (and a slightly higher steering column) should be able to order that.

We could have a quiz as to which classic cars also had this arrangement. The Mk1 Spitfire was the same - probably for an inexpensive LHD solution.
http://www.classicsportscars.eu/spitfire/PICTURES/mk3/triumph-spitfire-mk3-dashboard.JPG

Here's another: http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-MCwo2f-Ig/Te...usso_Inside.jpg

DaveW
'05 Red Roadster S1
'16 Yellow (Not the only) Narrow AR GDI Plus 4