From the resumption of automobile production at the close of World War II through the 1950s, the American auto industry would see the births and deaths of several manufacturers, great technological advances, and an era of dramatic styling as a prospering nation asserted its growing mobility. Cars of this period are among the most iconic vehicles ever built in the United States: the 1949 Ford, the remarkable Studebaker designs of 1950 and 1953, the 1955-1957 Chevrolets, the "Forward Look" Chrysler products, the ill-fated Edsel and many others. This comprehensive reference book details every model from each of the major manufacturers (including independents such as Kaiser-Frazer and Crosley but excluding very low-volume marques such as Tucker) from model years 1946 through 1959. Year by year, it provides an overview of the industry and market, followed by an individual report on each company: its main news for the year (introductions or cancellations of models, new engines and transmissions, advertising themes, sales trends etc.); its production figures and market status; and its powertrain offerings, paint colors and major options. The company's models are then detailed individually with such information as body styles, prices, dimensions and weights, standard equipment and production figures. Nearly 1,000 photographs are included.

The 1973 oil crisis forced the American automotive industry into a period of dramatic change, marked by stiff foreign competition, tougher product regulations and suddenly altered consumer demand. With gas prices soaring and the economy in a veritable tailspin, muscle cars and the massive "need-for-speed" engines of the late '60s were out, and fuel efficient compacts were in. By 1980, American manufacturers were churning out some of the most feature laden, yet smallest and most fuel efficient cars they had ever built. This exhaustive reference work details every model from each of the major American manufacturers from model years 1973 through 1980, including various "captive imports" (e.g. Dodge's Colt, built by Mitsubishi.) Within each model year, it reports on each manufacturer's significant news and details every model offered: its specifications, powertrain offerings, prices, standard features, major options, and production figures, among other facts. The work is heavily illustrated with approximately 1,300 photographs.

The most complete, authoritative, and well-illustrated automotive encyclopedia ever. Covers American cars from 1930 to 2002 and includes Chrylser, Ford, and GM, plus major independents, such as Duesenberg, Hudson, Checker, Shelby, and others. More than 3,500 photographs and thorough, clear text form a comprehensive portrait of the men and machines that contributed to the most exciting developments in American automotive history. Year-by-year reviews and detailed specifications of more than 50 makes of automobiles and over 24,000 individual models. Special color-photography sections highlight more than 160 of the most-spectacular American cars of the past eight decades.

» The world's most-comprehensive look at the American automobile. Year-by-year coverage of all major makes, from 1930 to today. » More than 3,500 photos. Includes the GM-Ford-Chrysler Big 3, plus the spectrum of makes from Allstate and AMC, through Duesenberg and LaSalle, to Tucker and Willys. » Authoritative reports on the cars, the companies and the individuals behind them. Detailed specifications charts include horsepower, original prices, annual production volume, and much more.