Convertibles Return to American Roads in 1980s Boom
Detroit schedule of convertibles revives after mid 1970s cutbacks driven by oil embargo and safety rules. Chrysler led the comeback with the Kcar convertible in 81, followed by Buick Ford Chevrolet and Pontiac. Eldorado planned for 1984. Lipton of Convertible Concepts notes strong showroom traffic and a nostalgia fueled surge with many buyers under 40 and others seeking flair over economy.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Martyn Schorr
Detroit
Schorr
Chrysler
Cars & Concepts
Buick
Ford
Chevrolet
Pontiac
Cadillac
Convertibles Hot as Weather Brings Demand in Eastern Iowa
Shirley LeMaster, editor, celebrates a new red convertible gifted by husband Dale, sharing lifelong love of convertibles. Dealers report strong demand with prices from 10 000 to 20 000, many selling out or on order as factories struggle to keep up.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Gail Cooper-Evans
Tté
Living Today
Dale
Shirley
Brookland Drive
Iowa
Dick Wanecek
Chrysler
Gary Uhland
Ford
Dave Siders
Dodge
Siders
Roger Miller
Gary Kinney
Chevrolet
Detroit
Bob DeVries
Volkswagen
I tried to buy an American car
A writer chronicles the frustrating hunt for an American car, facing salesroom refusals and hidden costs. He tests several brands from Chrysler to Ford, noting poor options and aggressive pricing, until a final convertible reveals persistent obstacles in the market.
Also Mentioned on This Page
William Smart
Washington Post
Scott Lipton
Lipton
Convertibles Magazine
Convertible Concepts Ltd
Blaine, Wash
Michigan
Karen Korengold
Ferrari
Harry Stark
Los Angeles
U.S
Joel Garreau
Ashington
America
UAW
Mitsubishi
Lee Jaccooa