American Independent Automakers - AMC to Willys 1945 to 1960
This illustrated book examines the efforts of American car manufacturers outside the "Big Three" - including Kaiser-Frazer, Willys, Packard, Studebaker, Tucker, Nash, and Hudson - to stay competitive after World War II. These independent makers were first to launch all-new models in hopes of gaining market share and securing their future.
Alongside them, many small-scale designers - such as Cunningham, Fitch, Darrin, and Williams - sought to create the ideal American sports car. Others focused on compact and economical vehicles, like Davis, Allstate, Playboy, Crosley, and King Midget, but none achieved long-term success.
The book also covers unusual concepts such as steam-powered cars, microcars, three-wheelers, and flying cars, all aiming to capture postwar consumer interest.
Using period brochures, factory photos, and over 90 new colour images of restored vehicles - many previously unpublished - the book provides detailed captions and background text. It highlights each brand's innovations, distinctive design features, and the reasons they ultimately failed. This volume offers a comprehensive overview of a creative and ambitious period in American automotive history.
Product details
Author: | Norm Mort |
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Details: | 96 pages, 19 x 20.5 x 0.7 cm / 7.5 x 8.1 x 0.28 in, paperback |
Illustrations: | 120 colour photos and drawings |
Publisher: | Veloce Publishing Ltd (GB, 2010) |
Series: | Those were the days |
ISBN: | 9781845842390 |

American Independent Automakers - AMC to Willys 1945 to 1960
Language: English
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