In this paper, we propose a novel reference model-based control approach for automotive longitudinal control. The reference model is nonlinear and provides dynamic solutions consistent with safety constraints and comfort specifications. The model is based on physical laws of compliant contact and has the particularity that its solutions can be explicitly described by integral curves. This allows to characterize the set of initial condition for which the constraints can be met. This model is combined with a simple feedback loop used to compensate unmodeled dynamics and external disturbances. Model simulations together with experimental results are also presented.