In a message dated 97-08-19 20:19:48 EDT, Nory@webtv.net (Nory) writes:
<<
The British could have monopolized the American car market if they
weren't so afraid of the pollution and safety regulations. If the Mini
had been marketed here during the oil crisis (when everybody wanted
small, gas-miser cars), the Japanese car industry would have never
gotten off the ground! They did it because nobody else did.
-NORY >>
Nory,
By 73, it was really too late for the Brits. Their bolt was pretty well
shot. Their factories were moribund, and they were out of money for R&D
(would anyone in their right mind release the TR7 to the public the was it
was?) The Mini wouldn't pass the crash test, and the Japs had established a
good, national dealer network. The cars weren't exciting but they started,
ran, and the service was good.
Had the Brits paid more attention to the way the Japs were setting up, we
would still be able to buy Britmobiles today.
Instead, they conducted business the the same old "If it was good enough for
Grandsire, it is good enough for me" way. The Japs went to robots in their
factories....Brits and Americans didn't....The Japs gave very good service to
their customers compared to the Brits and the Americans. Brits and Americans
didn't for the most part. BUT mostly, the Japs ASSEMBLED the cars VERY well
indeed. They may have been beer cans, but the doors fit. Who can remember
the 74 Thunderbird with the side moulding that looked like a snake running
down the side? Or the Brit cars that had parts that fell off at inopportune
moments?
I have always loved the British cars because they were cars made by
individuals for individuals. I have owned and driven some American cars as
well as Japanese cars as well, but there is no 'connection' there. Mass
production may be why. Or the answer may be inside us.
In any event, the MG has been 'everyman's' sportscar. It gives a lot of
bang per buck and smiles per mile. I welcome the return of the MG in the F
guise. I hope that it sells well enough to allow it to come to the US. I
hope MG returns to racing and rally.
After all, the real spirit of MG is in the design and building of new cars
for the average guy.
Best Regards,
Ray
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