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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.

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🇺🇸 Witness a milestone moment in automotive history: the production of the 2,000,000th Chevrolet Camaro!

🚗 On this iconic day, the Van Nuys Assembly Plant celebrated a significant achievement as the 2,000,000th Camaro rolled off the line. This milestone is a testament to the enduring legacy of American muscle cars and Chevrolet's commitment to automotive innovation.

🌟 Since its debut, the Camaro has captivated car enthusiasts with its sleek design, powerful performance, and unyielding spirit. Reaching this production milestone underscores the Camaro's lasting impact on the automotive world and solidifies its status as a true icon of American engineering.

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🇺🇲 Let's delve into the captivating history and remarkable characteristics of the 1956 Plymouth Fury—an iconic automobile that made its mark during the golden age of American cars.

🚗 Introduced in 1956 as a top-of-the-line modelas (a sub-series of the Plymouth Belvedere), the Plymouth Fury embodied Chrysler's vision of luxury and performance within the "Forward Look" design era. It quickly gained acclaim for its distinctive appearance and powerful performance.

🌟 The 1956 Plymouth Fury boasted a sleek and aerodynamic profile, characterized by prominent tailfins, chrome accents, and dual headlights, setting it apart from its contemporaries.

⚙️ Under the hood, the Fury was equipped with Chrysler's FirePower V8 engine, delivering impressive horsepower and torque, making it a favorite among speed enthusiasts.

👑 Inside, the Plymouth Fury offered a plush and comfortable cabin adorned with premium materials and modern amenities, reflecting its upscale status.

🚀 The 1956 Fury introduced advanced features for its time, including power steering, power brakes, and push-button automatic transmission controls, enhancing the driving experience with added comfort and convenience.

🎬 The Plymouth Fury gained widespread fame as the primary vehicle in Stephen King's novel "Christine," later adapted into a popular horror film, showcasing the Fury's timeless allure and sinister reputation.

🏁 A formidable contender in NASCAR racing, the Fury demonstrated its performance capabilities on the track, solidifying its reputation as a high-performance vehicle.

👑 Despite its popularity, the 1956 Plymouth Fury was produced in limited numbers, becoming a rare and sought-after collector's item today. It represents an era of automotive innovation and artistic design, influencing subsequent generations of car enthusiasts and designers.

🦅 The Plymouth Fury 1956 embodies the spirit of American automotive excellence, blending style, power, and sophistication into an iconic package. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire admiration and nostalgia among car aficionados worldwide.

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🗓️ Twenty years ago, a momentous chapter in automotive history drew to a close as Oldsmobile, after 107 years of production, assembled its final car.

🏭 The climax arrived with the creation of the Alero Final 500 Edition. These last 500 Aleros were truly extraordinary, featuring custom logos reminiscent of vintage Oldsmobile designs, a captivating dark cherry metallic paint finish, and each adorned with a unique numbered plate denoting its place in the final production run of 500.

👉 Notably, the very last Alero produced was the Final 500 Edition #500 of 500, a GLS 4-door model. What made this moment even more poignant was that it signified the ultimate Oldsmobile ever manufactured. To commemorate this occasion, the employees of the General Motors Lansing plant personally signed beneath its hood.

💔 On April 29, 2004, this symbolic final car rolled off the production line at the Lansing Assembly Plant. Its journey continued as it found a place of honor at the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum.

💰 Years later, on December 15, 2017, this historic automobile went under the hammer at auction, commanding an impressive $42,000. The proud new owner, a dealer based in Florida, continues to preserve and cherish this piece of automotive heritage.

🙋‍♂️ Let's commemorate this significant milestone in the evolution of American automobiles and the end of an era for Oldsmobile.

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🇺🇲 Let's dive into the captivating history and features of the 1967 Mercury Cougar—a true icon of American automotive design and performance, the unleashed Spirit of American Muscle Cars.

🌟 The Mercury Cougar made its debut in 1967 as a striking entry into the competitive pony car segment. Positioned as a luxurious and sophisticated counterpart to the Ford Mustang, the Cougar embodied a blend of style, power, and refinement.

🛞 The Cougar's sleek lines and aggressive stance turned heads on the streets. With hidden headlights, a pronounced grille, and sequential turn signals, it exuded a sense of timeless elegance. The 1967 model year offered several variants, including the base, XR-7, and GT models, catering to a range of preferences from luxury to high performance.

⚙️ Under the hood, the Cougar roared with a range of potent engine options. From the standard 289 cubic inch V8 to the fearsome 390 cubic inch V8, enthusiasts had choices that delivered exhilarating performance.

🏁 The Cougar quickly found success on the racetrack, competing in various motorsport events. Notably, it served as the official pace car for the Indianapolis 500 in 1967, solidifying its status as a performance-oriented vehicle.

💎 The 1967 Mercury Cougar remains a sought-after classic among collectors and enthusiasts. Its blend of style, comfort, and raw power encapsulates the spirit of American muscle cars from the golden era of automotive design.

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🇬🇧🚗🇺🇲 Rev up your engines and dive into the world of English and American automotive excellence! Introducing Transatlantic Torque: Brits & Yanks on Wheels!

🌟 Join us for a thrilling ride through the rich heritage of iconic cars, from British classics to American legends. Discover fascinating stories and stunning designs that define automotive history.

🔗 Subscribe now to Transatlantic Torque and be part of this exciting journey! Don't miss out on the ultimate celebration of Brits and Yanks on Wheels. Let's fuel your passion for cars together!

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