britsyankswheels24

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🎊 Thank you @ruban94 and everyone who got me to 250 reblogs!

🚗🦃 "Going Home for Thanksgiving" — a 1927 Richfield Gasoline ad that beautifully reflects the excitement of holiday road trips and the promise of reliable travel during the golden age of motoring!

🛢️ Richfield Oil Corporation, founded in 1905 in California, became a major player in fueling America’s growing love for automobiles. Known for its innovative marketing, Richfield built its reputation on offering “clean, powerful” gasoline tailored for the modern engines of the 1920s.

📜 By the time this 1927 ad was published , car ownership had skyrocketed, and brands like Richfield played a pivotal role in enabling long-distance travel—a novel concept for many families of the era. Richfield stations became iconic landmarks, offering high-quality fuel to the increasingly popular vehicles of brands like Ford, Chevrolet, and Buick.

🍂 This ad celebrates not just Thanksgiving but the freedom and connection cars brought to American families. Imagine loading up the family car, cruising down scenic autumn roads, and knowing Richfield would get you home safe and sound. It's a slice of Americana steeped in nostalgia and innovation.

What’s your favorite holiday road trip memory? 🚙💨

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🚗🦃 "Going Home for Thanksgiving" — a 1927 Richfield Gasoline ad that beautifully reflects the excitement of holiday road trips and the promise of reliable travel during the golden age of motoring!

🛢️ Richfield Oil Corporation, founded in 1905 in California, became a major player in fueling America’s growing love for automobiles. Known for its innovative marketing, Richfield built its reputation on offering “clean, powerful” gasoline tailored for the modern engines of the 1920s.

📜 By the time this 1927 ad was published , car ownership had skyrocketed, and brands like Richfield played a pivotal role in enabling long-distance travel—a novel concept for many families of the era. Richfield stations became iconic landmarks, offering high-quality fuel to the increasingly popular vehicles of brands like Ford, Chevrolet, and Buick.

🍂 This ad celebrates not just Thanksgiving but the freedom and connection cars brought to American families. Imagine loading up the family car, cruising down scenic autumn roads, and knowing Richfield would get you home safe and sound. It's a slice of Americana steeped in nostalgia and innovation.

What’s your favorite holiday road trip memory? 🚙💨

[britsyankswheels24]

🇬🇧🇯🇵 The Sterling brand had a fleeting existence, but its story is a fascinating fusion of British craftsmanship and American ambition. Created as the U.S. marketing name for automobiles produced by Austin Rover Cars of North America (later Sterling Motor Cars), the brand represented a division of the UK’s Rover Group. Launched in 1987 through a joint venture between the Austin Rover Group (part of British Leyland Motor Corporation) and Honda, Sterling aimed to deliver British luxury to American roads.

🚘 Sterling cars were based on the Rover 800 Series, sharing platforms and components with Honda’s Acura Legend. This partnership allowed Sterling to benefit from Honda’s famed engineering reliability while adding a distinctly British touch through wood trim, leather interiors, and elegant styling.

🌟 The brand debuted with the Sterling 825, powered by Honda’s 2.5-liter V6 engine, followed by the Sterling 827, which featured a more powerful 2.7-liter V6. These models offered a compelling mix of performance, luxury, and affordability, catering to American buyers looking for an alternative to domestic and European vehicles.

📉 Despite a strong start, Sterling’s momentum was soon derailed by quality control issues, particularly with its British-manufactured components. Poor reviews and rising customer dissatisfaction tarnished the brand's reputation, causing sales to plummet. By 1991, just four years after its debut, Sterling exited the U.S. market. A strong British pound and mounting financial losses made a comeback impossible, even with a facelifted model and a planned coupe version on the horizon. When the closure was announced in August 1991, fewer than 2,000 units had been sold that year.

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🚗✨ On This Day in Automotive History: November 23, 1864

🎉 Today marks the birth of Henry Bourne Joy, a key figure in the early American automotive industry and the longtime president of Packard Motor Car Company. Born in Detroit, Henry was the son of James Joy, the influential president of the Michigan Central Railroad—an upbringing that undoubtedly sparked his interest in transportation and innovation.

🚘 Henry’s journey into the world of automobiles began in 1902 during a trip to New York City. While there, he discovered a Packard automobile and was so impressed by its quality and craftsmanship that he purchased the only one available in town. This chance encounter led him to visit James Packard in Warren, Ohio, where Henry organized a group of investors to move the Ohio Automobile Company to Detroit, creating the legendary Packard Motor Car Company.

🌟 As president from 1909 and later chairman from 1916 to 1926, Henry Joy played a pivotal role in shaping Packard’s reputation for luxury and engineering excellence. Under his leadership, Packard became synonymous with elegance and innovation, producing some of the most prestigious vehicles of the era and competing with iconic brands like Cadillac and Lincoln.

🌍 Beyond cars, Henry Joy’s vision extended to national infrastructure. He was a passionate advocate for the development of transcontinental highways, most notably the Lincoln Highway—America’s first coast-to-coast road—paving the way for modern automotive travel.

🛠️ Packard’s famous slogan, “Ask the Man Who Owns One,” became a testament to the brand’s quality and Henry Joy’s relentless pursuit of perfection. His legacy remains a cornerstone of automotive history.

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🇺🇸 Founded in 1899 by David Dunbar Buick, Buick Motor Company quickly became a pioneer in the American automotive industry. Starting in Detroit, Michigan, and later moving to Flint, Buick became one of the oldest and most respected American automobile brands, known for luxury, performance, and innovation.

💡 Buick set itself apart early on by introducing the revolutionary overhead valve engine. This design provided greater power and efficiency, making Buick one of the most reliable brands of its time. By 1908, Buick had become the best-selling car brand in the United States, a status that helped solidify its place in automotive history.

🏢 In 1908, Buick became the cornerstone for General Motors (GM), founded by William C. Durant. Buick's success helped finance GM’s expansion into other brands like Cadillac and Chevrolet.

🎖 Throughout the 1930s and 40s, Buick grew its reputation for luxury and elegance. Iconic models like the Buick Roadmaster and Buick Super became symbols of American style and quality, providing the luxury of a Cadillac at a more accessible price. These cars weren’t just vehicles—they were statements on the road.

🔥 In the 1950s, Buick introduced some of its most memorable models. With distinctive portholes on the sides and innovative designs like the Buick Skylark, the brand embodied the optimism and progress of post-war America. The introduction of the famous Nailhead V8 engine made Buick a powerhouse in performance, especially admired by car enthusiasts and drag racers.

⚡ From the classic Rivieras of the 60s to today’s advanced SUVs, Buick has continually evolved to meet modern demands while staying true to its heritage of comfort and reliability. Today, Buick combines innovation with a modern sense of style. With over a century of engineering and style under its belt, Buick stands as one of the longest-surviving American brands.

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🇺🇸 As we approach Chrysler's 100th anniversary, Frank B. Rhodes Jr., great-grandson of company founder Walter P. Chrysler, is raising concerns about the brand’s future and wants to take action to rescue it. In a recent open letter to “investors and workers,” Rhodes announced his plan to revitalize Chrysler and its related brands—Dodge, Ram, and Jeep—under new “American” ownership.

🚗 Stellantis, the current parent company of Chrysler, has come under criticism from Rhodes for its management of the brand, which he claims has been severely neglected. The Chrysler brand currently offers only one vehicle, the Pacifica minivan, while several promising concept cars, such as the Chrysler Airflow, were shelved before reaching production. Rhodes highlighted Stellantis’ focus on European brands like Citroën and Peugeot, arguing that Chrysler has been left behind.

💼 Rhodes, who has been a Chrysler ambassador for over 40 years, points to his family’s legacy and his own ownership of the final Chrysler 300C as reasons for his dedication to the brand. He submitted a 17-page proposal to Stellantis executives, inviting them to a confidential discussion on reviving Chrysler. His plan includes giving equity stakes to employees, echoing the worker-centered vision of his great-grandfather, who founded the company on principles of American ingenuity and innovation.

📉 Rhodes also expresses concern about the future of Dodge, which has focused heavily on electric vehicles (EVs) despite its core customer base being more interested in American muscle and performance cars. He argues that Stellantis’ push toward an all-electric lineup by 2028 for Chrysler is out of step with market trends, where hybrids are gaining popularity. The all-electric path, Rhodes warns, could be disastrous for the brand’s future.

🔧 Despite these challenges, Rhodes remains optimistic about the potential to rebuild Chrysler as a symbol of blue-collar luxury and innovation. He is calling for a return to American-designed and built products, and greater autonomy for Chrysler and Dodge within Stellantis. Rhodes’ ultimate goal is to rescue the brand from what he sees as poor management and ensure that Chrysler survives to celebrate its next century.

🚨 As Chrysler fans prepare for the 100th anniversary celebrations next summer, including a large event in Pennsylvania, Rhodes is urging action to prevent the brand from fading into obscurity. Without intervention, he warns, Chrysler’s future looks bleak.

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🎉 October 15 marks the 100th birthday of one of the most influential figures in the automotive industry—Lee Iacocca. Born in 1924, Iacocca's visionary leadership helped shape the modern car industry and saved iconic brands from collapse.

🚗 At Ford, Iacocca was responsible for the creation of the legendary Ford Mustang, a car that became a symbol of American culture and automotive innovation. He also had a hand in the development of other iconic models such as the Ford Pinto; the luxurious Lincoln Continental Mark III; the stylish Mercury Cougar and the Ford Escort, a popular subcompact that catered to fuel-conscious drivers in the 1970s.

💼 Perhaps Iacocca's greatest achievement came when he took over Chrysler in 1978, at a time when the company was on the verge of bankruptcy. His introduction of the K-platform cars and the minivan not only saved Chrysler but also revolutionized the American car industry.

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🇺🇸 September 23, 1991: on this day, the production of the Ford Falcon came to an end at the General Pacheco plant in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

🏭 The Ford Motor Argentina company began assembling Ford Falcon units on January 10, 1962, at their La Boca plant in Buenos Aires. National manufacturing of the Ford Falcon began on July 15, 1963, with the first Argentine body built on April 30 of the same year.

🎉 The final unit produced was a platinum gray Ford Falcon GL, which was raffled among the 6,000 workers of Autolatina Argentina. The lucky winner was Emilio Félix Pogliotto, an employee at the Transax Puente Box Plant in Córdoba. This last unit marked the end of an era, with a total of 494,209 units manufactured.

🔧 By 1982, only 46 of the 3,500 parts that made up the Ford Falcon were common to the original 1962 model, showcasing the extensive nationalization and transformation the car underwent over 29 years of production.

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🎊 50 posts! Explore the best of English and American automotive heritage with TransatlanticTorque. Join us on a journey through iconic cars and rich history 🚗🇬🇧🇺🇸.

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🇺🇲 On September 4, 1957, Ford Motor Company introduced the Edsel, a new division aimed at revolutionizing the market. Unlike Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury, the Edsel had its own identity with four models: the smaller Pacers and Rangers, and the larger Citations and Corsairs.

🚘 The Edsel became notorious for its failure. Launched during a booming economy, it was designed as a large, flashy car. But by the time it hit showrooms, the economy had shifted, and consumers wanted smaller, more efficient cars.

🤔 The Edsel’s unique design, including push-button gear shifting on the steering wheel, wasn’t well-received. Issues like a hood ornament that could fly off didn’t help its reputation. In its first year, Edsel sold just 64,000 cars, losing $250 million ($2.5 billion today).

💔 The Edsel brand was discontinued after the 1960 model year, marking one of the biggest flops in automotive history.

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📆 On August 21, 1897, Ransom Olds founded Olds Motor Works after successfully building his first gas-powered vehicle.

⚙️ In its first year, Olds Motors produced just four vehicles. However, after securing an investment from businessman Samuel Smith, the company began mass-producing automobiles using Olds' innovative automotive assembly line. By 1903, Oldsmobile had become the largest automaker in the U.S., though Ransom Olds departed in 1904 due to disputes over the company’s direction. A few years later, Oldsmobile was acquired by General Motors.

🚘 During its nearly century-long run with GM, Oldsmobile pioneered innovations like the automatic transmission and introduced iconic models such as the Cutlass, Toronado, and 88.

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🇺🇲 On June 25, 1956, the last Packard rolled off the production line in Detroit.

🚘 Once a leading luxury car manufacturer, the Packard Motor Car Company was renowned for its square bodies and hand-finished expertise. However, after World War I, General Motors' entry into the luxury market with Cadillac began to erode Packard's market share.

🏭 In a bid to survive, Packard merged with the Studebaker Corporation in the 1950s. Despite these efforts, the struggle continued. James Nance, president of Studebaker-Packard at the time, decided to cease Packard manufacturing in Detroit.

💔 Studebaker-Packard continued to produce cars in Indiana until 1958, but the last “true Packard” is considered to be the one made in Detroit.

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🇬🇧 The 1959 Morris Mini Minor, commonly known as the Mini, revolutionized the automotive industry. Introduced by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) and designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, it became a symbol of 1960s British culture.

🏭 Morris Motors, formed in 1919, represented 42% of British car production by 1926. In 1952, it merged with Austin to form BMC, incorporating Morris, MG, Riley, and Wolseley. The Morris name remained until 1984 when British Leyland focused on Austin and Rover.

🚘 Debuting on August 26, 1959, the Mini was designed for affordability and efficiency during economic austerity. Issigonis maximized interior space within a compact design. The goal was to create a car that was affordable, economical, and practical for everyday use. Issigonis's design achieved this by maximizing interior space within a compact exterior.

🚗 The Mini featured a transverse engine and front-wheel drive, maximizing space and handling. Its rubber cone suspension by Alex Moulton provided a smooth ride, and small corner-placed wheels enhanced handling. The small wheels were placed at the corners of the car, further enhancing interior space and giving the Mini its characteristic go-kart handling.

🌟 The Mini became a cultural phenomenon, popular across social classes and successful in motorsports, including multiple Monte Carlo Rally wins in the 1960s. Celebrities and ordinary people alike were drawn to its charm. The Mini saw updates until 2000, and in 2001, BMW relaunched the brand, modernizing it while retaining iconic elements.

🎥 The Mini gained further fame as Mr. Bean's beloved car. This lime green Mini, driven by Rowan Atkinson's character, became an iconic element of the show, adding to the Mini's already extensive cultural legacy.

🏁 The 1959 Morris Mini Minor is celebrated for its groundbreaking design, influencing future vehicles and remaining a timeless classic. The Mini's innovative use of space, combined with its distinctive style and fun driving experience, ensures its place as a timeless classic in automotive history.

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🇺🇲 Journey back to 2006 and witness the unveiling of The Chrysler Imperial concept car, a stunning homage to luxury and design!

🛠️ The Chrysler Imperial concept car made its grand debut at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. Inspired by the grandeur of classic American luxury cars, the Imperial was designed to exude a sense of opulence and sophistication. It aimed to revive the prestigious Chrysler Imperial nameplate, which had a rich history dating back to the 1920s.

🔧 The concept car featured a commanding presence with its long wheelbase, stately proportions, and imposing grille. Its design paid tribute to the historic Chrysler Imperials of the mid-20th century, known for their elegance and advanced engineering. The large 22-inch wheels and bold lines were reminiscent of the brand’s legacy of combining luxury with power.

🚘 The interior of the Imperial concept car was nothing short of luxurious. It showcased plush leather seats, hand-crafted wood accents, and state-of-the-art technology. The spacious cabin was designed to provide unparalleled comfort, making every ride an experience in ultimate luxury. The rear seats were particularly notable for their limousine-like comfort, featuring reclining functionality and ample legroom.

⚙️ Under the hood, the Imperial concept was powered by a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine, delivering robust performance to match its grand exterior. This powerful engine was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth and responsive drive. The car's suspension was tuned for a smooth ride, aligning with the luxury expectations of the Imperial name.

📜 The Chrysler Imperial nameplate has a storied history. First introduced in 1926, the Imperial was Chrysler’s top-of-the-line vehicle, intended to compete with other luxury brands such as Cadillac and Lincoln. Throughout its production years, the Imperial was known for its innovative features, luxurious interiors, and powerful engines. The 1955 Chrysler Imperial was the first to be marketed as a separate brand, emphasizing its premium status. Notable models like the 1961 Imperial LeBaron and the 1981 Imperial featured cutting-edge designs and technology that set industry standards.

💼 Although the Chrysler Imperial concept car never made it to production, it left a lasting impression on automotive enthusiasts and industry experts. It served as a bold statement of Chrysler's vision for the future of luxury vehicles, blending timeless design with modern innovation. The concept also highlighted Chrysler's commitment to its rich heritage while looking forward to new possibilities.

📸 The concept Chrysler Imperial from 2006 remains a captivating piece of automotive history, symbolizing a moment when bold ideas and exquisite craftsmanship came together to create a truly memorable vehicle. It stands as a testament to Chrysler's enduring legacy in the luxury automotive market.

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🚗✨ A glimpse into automotive history!

🇺🇲 1966 Chevrolets rolling off the assembly line at the GM Flint, Michigan plant. Witness the craftsmanship and dedication that went into creating these classic beauties.

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🇺🇲 The last Edsel, a station wagon, rolled off the Louisville assembly line on November 19, 1959. The story of the 1960 Edsel is brief but poignant. Production began on September 14, 1959, at the Ford Louisville plant, the only remaining Edsel manufacturing facility, and just over a month later, on October 15, the cars were introduced to the public. However, by November 19, production had ceased, with only 2,846 vehicles assembled.

📅 The final Edsel to be built, known as Job Number 344, was a tan station wagon. For the assembly crew, it was just another day at work. The engine gave a slight cough as it started, and in two minutes, the last Edsel rolled off the line and into history.

🔚 It's clear that by the time the 1960 models were introduced, the Edsel was already a lost cause for the Ford Motor Company. Despite its short production run, the Edsel has left a lasting legacy as one of the most memorable names in automotive history.

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📅 On June 28th, 2001, at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois, the final Plymouth Neon rolled off the production line, marking the end of an iconic brand.

📉 In Plymouth's final model year, only the Neon remained. The Prowler and Voyager transitioned to Chrysler, with the Voyager gaining high-end LX and base eC trims, and retaining the SE trim. Meanwhile, the Chrysler Sebring sedan replaced the Chrysler Cirrus, and the PT Cruiser was launched as a Chrysler, although it was originally intended to be a Plymouth.

🚗 The last Plymouth, a Neon, represents the end of a significant chapter in American automotive history. A total of 38,657 Neons were built for the model year, with the very last one symbolizing the brand's legacy.