Can anyone tell me why on earth the fuel filter is located where it is?

I can think of a couple of possibilities:

1. Some bright bunny's idea of a cost saving measure.
2. Super safe location for enhanced crash protection.

Neither of these ideas seems very strong.

 

They tried to put it as far away from the engine because of heat. Heat would've caused vapor lock inside of the fuel lines......

 

are you kidding, i will tell you why...this is from a japanese friend so no pun intended. "its cause we are so tiny, small hands small feet. you americans are so BULKY" i swear to this as i get further with the 7. heel toe like them, NOPE. i have size 13's. this is also why we dont get back seats. you can fit my buddy and his family comfotably in a 300zx(family of 10) where i think 2 people max is all that can fit for us bulky americans
kris

 

I like where it's located, except once a year for about 30min-1hr.