History of makes

Soon it came the time in Jaguar history when William Lyons was no more content to merely build bodies on other people's chassis. This constrained his creative desires and equally restricted him to products which were stolid rather than sporting.

If Lyons and Walmsley were to throw off these shackles, they needed to create their own chassis to suit their ends. However, the industry was littered with failures and Lyons determined that a cautious approach was reasonable. Subsequently, he arranged for the Standard Motor Company to create a chassis to Swallow's design but equipped with Standard engines. The outcome was SS model - new car that's going to thrill the hearts of the motoring public and the trade alike. It's seemed to be something utterly new, better!'

Thus announced SS I and SS II Coupes were accordingly introduced to the 1931 London Motor Show; and in fact those models caused a sensation, played important role in company history. The body was designed ultra low and the bonnet outrageously long. SS model possessed genuinely the £1,000 look, while was priced at a very modest £310, highlighting Lyons' unique ability to offer remarkable value for money.

Lyons was almost keen about making his cars as low as possible and did his best to stick to his principle. Lyons managed to achieve this long, low, sporting appearance by moving the engine further back in the chassis; subsequently this became normal practice and by mounting the road springs alongside as well. The SS II, which appeared alongside and was inevitably over-shadowed by the gloss of SS I, was simply a smaller version basic model. Soon after the unveling of the new SS models the company decided to issue the larger 2552cc 20 hp Standard engine; For 1933 a number of revisions were introduced to make the larger car a little more practical.

Lengthening the wheelbase by seven inches and widening the track by two, allowed two passengers to be carried in the rear.

In July 1933 the company history was marked by SS I Tourer coming up which joined SS I Coupe, and apart from being the first open SS model; the significance of the Tourers was that they were the first to claim serious competition. A team of three Tourers was introduced in the 1933 Alpine Trial in mainland Europe and the following couple of years they enhanced the SS name very considerably given they took the team prize in this particular tough event.

The little SS II was considerably improved in late 1933 when it was given its own purpose-designed chassis which made a wheelsbase more than a foot longer. The front wings were adapted to conform to the new style and conditions of the larger model.

Also, following the form of the SS I, Saloon and Tourer models of the SS II were introduced. For 1934 a new saloon was added to the model line-up known as a four light or four windows saloon. The new Saloon model was rather less flamboyant and rather more practical as now the rear seat passengers could now see out!

William Walmsley, who did not share his partner's driving ambitions and was becoming more uninterested in their joint enterprise. Meanwhile Lyons now turned his attention to improving the mechanical integrity of the cars. First he turned to Harry Weslake, a distinguished engineering specialist adept at cylinder head design.

Then he founded an Engineering Department and appointed a young William Heynes to be his Chief Engineer. Remarkably that Heynes was to play a major role in Jaguar history of the next 35 years.

Soon this entailed in Jaguar model range broadening by the SS I Airline Saloon in 1935. Its design was not that Lyons’s original but the shape was fashionable for the time and sold well.

In march 1935 new model was issued - SS I Drophead Coupe. In exterior it was badly resembling the Coupe but with whole hood folded away under a hinged cover on the luggage locker resulted in a most pleasing appearance. This was another creature of Weslake and Heynes' joint energies marked another evolutional step in jahuar history.

Still later a very stylish sports car was introduced known as the SS 90. Jaguar SS 90 was equipped with 2.7 litre side-valve engine while the performance once again did not quite conform to the car's dramatic appearance.

To trace the birth of Jaguar history, one is to go back to the northern seaside town of Blackpool. where a young motorcycle enthusiast by the name of Bill Lyons, not yet 21 years of age, met William Walmsley, who was building a rather stylish sidecar which he was attaching to reconditioned motor cycles.

Young Lyons immediately displayed the two traits that would be his greatest qualities for the next 50 years or so. His business acumen shrewdly espied a good commercial opportunity and his eye for style appreciated the attractive appearance of these normally mundane creations. He felt there was great potential if the activity could be organised along business lines and production increased to make the operation viable.

As soon as William Lyons came of age, the Swallow Sidecar Company was formed in September 1922, with a bank overdraft of £1,000. After humble premises with two floors were obtained in Blackpool and, with a handful of employees, production was commenced. That was the start in Jaguar history!

Young Arthur Whittaker was taken on to help with sales but proved better at buying. Pioneering the use of aluminium, Jaguar introduced to the market the very stylish sidecars were immediately popular and production expanded rapidly.

Then in 1927 Herbert Austin introduced his baby car, the famous Austin Seven. Intended to bring motoring to the masses, the tiny Seven model was cheap, easy to drive and reliable automobile, but lacked individuality like many other first cars. Lyons saw another opportunity. He created more stylish two-seater body which was mounted on the Austin Seven chassis. An order for 500 was obtained from one of the main London garages and production commenced.

It was the beginning of long and fruitful relationship between Lyons and Bertie Henly, who operated Henlys, one of the country's leading garages. At £175, or £185 with a hinged hardtop, the splendid little Austin Seven Swallow proved highly popular and the company introduced a Swallow body for the larger Morris Cowley chassis.

The range then increased significantly with the introduction of the Austin Seven Swallow Saloon in late 1928. Such features as the polished radiator cowl and Ladies Companion Set elevated the Swallows above the average. When sales of the cars and sidecars proved definite increase, the company decided to move to the Midlands, traditional heartland of the British motor industry marking essential move in its history.

The annual London Motor Show of 1929 was marked by three new Swallow models appearing at once for the first time. These were based on the Fiat Tipo 509A, the Swift Ten and Standard Big Nine. Most important of these was the Standard model for it was the beginning of a significant trend in company history. The Standard Swallow model was a rather larger saloon and sold for £245. Again the body style offered a more extravagant guise than the initial version product and an extrovert range of colour schemes.

Soon the model possessing more sporting pretensions was introduced with the addition of the Swallow version of the Wolseley Hornet. Offered just as a two-seater at first, a four-seater was added a year later in 1931 and, a year after that. This was the time of Swallow Company being in existence of steady expansion and essential success. But the ambitious Lyons was far from being satisfied with achievements and intended further bold step forward.

1970

After fourteen years of manufacturing, when Volvo history had been numbered 667,323 cars, Volvo Amazon production was phased out at the beginning of the summer. The Volvo Amazon was the best example of Volvo philosophy, consisting of production reliability, capability to be improved; Volvo Amazon was the car which could be produced during the years ahead and would have made an important contribution to safety and quality development. The changes, made by the 1970 and Volvo 140 were insignificant – a new grille design with a diagonal stripe. During the year Volvo passed the 2 million car point in production.

1971

In Volvo history this was the year of new sales stepping up. Sales rate rose for the 20th year, during this year 214,000 automobiles has been produced. Volvo became a giant in motor-car construction in Scandinavia; in the UK sales stepped up almost by 50%.

The Volvo 164 E was introduced as the most powerful automobile among the all cars that had been produced before. The engine had electronic injection and produced 175h/p. The new 1800 version was presented in 1971. Emphatic, impetuous, elongated side-view underlined the sports nature that even had, in addition, a large luggage compartment. The model was known as the 1800 ES.

1972

“We need the addition of a small car” – was a frequent response of Volvo’s dealers. That was the Volvo’s main reason for purchasing 33% of the shares in DAF in Holland marking essential step in company history. Another reason was that Volvo wanted strongly to strengthen its position in the EU. In 1972 Volvo presented the VESC (Volvo Experimental Safety Car).

An experimental car and being faced the future at the same time. The VESC was a virtually mobile lab, in which various rise-of-safety components such as brakes anti-skid, airbags, and telescopic bumpers has been developed and tested. A rich experience, acquired from the VESC, was applied later to the 240/260 series. In 1972 VTC, the Volvo Technical Centre, was established.

1973

Production was in full swing when the first dark clouds of an oil crisis appeared on the horizon. This year production was at top level for the whole Volvo history. The USA became the largest marketing outlets followed by Sweden. Nobody could surmise that an international economic recession was just round the corner. A large bumper was installed to the models of that year as the US standards required. However, interior was subjected to the most essential modifications. They included new dashboard, on which the most important equipment was grouped in front of the driver. The steering wheel became smaller and a rectangular safety cushion appeared in the middle.

1974

A new generation of Volvo cars was announced: the Volvo 240 was available in six various versions and Volvo 260 in two versions. These models had new front that came from the experimental the VESC model. Dashboard was also changed. The role of 240th series became even significant I Volvo history after the model attained new B21 engine.

The 260 series also was equipped with a new engine, the B27. This new six-cylinder engine was the first offspring resulting from the Volvo’s joint venture with Renault and Peugeot for the automobile engine development. The joint venture was established in 1971. The 240/260 series production took Volvo to a leading position among the world’s automobile producers in the terms of safety.

The new Volvo’s car plant in Kalmar had been finished by the 8th February. It had an unusual design and it looked like a star among the other car plants. This car plant caught a lot of attention thanks to its fundamentally new production process in Volvo history engaging automatic transport baskets of the car bodies and working procedure rearrangement that was managed by a small teams or workers.


1975


In 1975 there were presented more two new models joined company model line-up: Volvo 265 and Volvo 66. The 265 model was an exclusive estate that provided ride comfort with a six-cylinder engine. The Volvo 66 finally gave Volvo to vent to a small cars market. The 66 model was a development of the DAF 66, a comfortable urban car that was equipped with a variator type of hydro transmission. It was produced in Holland at

DAF plant, which was renamed to Volvo Car B.V. The Swedish Automobile Association rewarded Volvo with a golden medal for the safety equipment as a day lights and the main brake cylinder structure featuring essential event in Volvo history.

1976

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) acquired several Volvo 240 model automobiles that were used to set the safety standards, which all new cars had to comply with when entering the US car market. In Volvo 343 model from Holland came as another note on Volvo history. This was the car completely developed from nothing at the Volvo Car B.V plant. The Volvo 343 was intended to conquer the new but growing intensively market for mid-class cars. The first model was equipped with 1.4 engine and variator type of hydro transmission. Despite its exterior dimensions, there was enough free inner space available. A big rear luggage compartment of this hatchback, a powerful De Dion single-spring rear suspension system and folding seats made this car very efficient.

Primarily this model was not widely recognized (because of inexpressive guise), but after some modifications, the 340th series along with the 240/260 series became company’s best-selling model in Volvo history during the 1970’s and 80’s. In Sweden Volvo introduced a new type of the service warranty - VSG – which protected the clients from sudden expenses in conjunction with after-sales service or repairs during the first three years of a car’s life.

Volvo introduced for the first time in the world (in California, the USA) a three-stage catalytic converter with a Lambda probe marking one more vivid achievement in Volvo history. This equipment reduced exhaust emission approximately by 90%.

1977

Volvo celebrated its 50th jubilee with the 240th Special model production. This car was available in silver metallic with black and gold decorative molding. During this year Volvo also presented the Volvo 262 Coupe. In fact, 262 occurred real zest in Volvo automobiles history.

This was an extremely exclusive model that was built using elaborations of the Italian designer Bertone. The seats were made of leather and the car was equipped with air-conditioner, electronic window raiser, rear-view mirrors and an acoustic system. The engine was the same as in the 260th models, V6 140hp B27 model engine.

At the same time suppositional merger between Volvo and Saab-Scania was the most discussed event of the year within auto industry circles. But subsequently Volvo refused this idea, as the Saab-Scania management was not interested in it.

1978

Since the beginning of the 1970’s Volvo’s car operations became more independent as far. One more step in this direction was undertaken by Volvo Cars reorganization into the daughter enterprise, the Volvo Cars Corporation, with Hekan Frisinger as president. For the first time car sales passed 10,000 SEK mark and accounted for about 54% of the Volvo Group’s total turnover.

The number of interior improvements, new versions and even better driving characteristics in the models of 1979 were introduced proving the initial company approach demonstrated throughout the whole course of Volvo history. In 1978 Volvo 343 model was issued with manual transmission.

A great technical innovation in Volvo history occurred six-cylinder diesel engine that was put on manufacturing in 1979. It was later joined by a five-cylinder diesel engine. In 1978 Volvo management propounded a proposal to establish a joint venture with Norway. But most Volvo shareholders had not encouraged this idea and Volvo management decided not to make a crucial move in its history.

1979

During the year Volvo stepped up the car production almost by 25% and sold more than 310,000 automobiles. The four-millionth car in Volvo history was among them. Volvo has covenanted for co-operation, construction and product development with French Renault.

The Engines resulting from joint Volvo-Renault venture had been installed onещ 340/360 series and later on the 440/60 series. During some years Renault was a principal shareholder in Volvo Car Corporation. The 1980th car models were presented in august and attained excellent reception by car market.

In addition to the Volvo six-cylinder diesel engine, the new Volvo 240th series were replenished by the GLT with a 140hp 4-cylinder engine. Within the 340 series a five-door hatchback – the Volvo 345 with a 70hp engine was introduced. After a decade of problems in Volvo history the company elaborated a strategy of aggressive production development for the 1980s.

Essential step in BMW history came in 1994 the purchase at $2.3 billion of German marques of Rover Group as well as of Britain-scale biggest factory producing cars of Rover, land Rover and MG. With that deal BMW gained necessary experience and examples of midget and off-roader class models.

1995 became the reference point of including airbag for front passenger and engine anti-theft blocking system to all BMW model as default. In March, 1995 BMW launched famous Touring 3-series version. This car stood out not just for up-to-date exterior design but for completely innovative maintenance, in particular it was the first example in car manufacturing history when the model’s chassis was made of aluminum.

Again in 1995 BMW unveiled new 5-series which had been developed under the concept of harmony: new 5-series was excelling in both – stylish design and advanced technologies engaged. New materials used in the model manufacturing enabled to increase utilization rate up to 85%. At the same time exclusively rigid body of 5-series provided for high safety level.

In 1996 debuted BMW Z3 – the first sportive BMW equipped with diesel engine. It was a genuine synthesis of dynamics and classical design making that model purely excellent. Additional popularity BMW Z3 obtained due to “Golden Eye” film with James Bond agent and Z3 cast. As a result Z3 became a bestseller and orders overloaded BMW factory in Spartanburg (USA, South Caroline).

In 1997 BMW history was marked by motorcycle R1200 C model issuing – the model that as its contemporaries assured could not leave untouched. This motorcycle brought principally new interpretation due to sensational design combining traditional elements with futuristic ones, as well as to the biggest in cubic displacement ever constructed BMW opposite engine (1170 cc and 61 h/p). In 1997 BMW also introduced one more dream-car – M Roadster which the best way was embodying pure-blooded sportive car.

The spring of 1998 in BMW history brought 5th generation of popular 3-series sedans. Refined in many aspects new BMW 3-serie offered not modern exterior only but ultra innovative engines as well, high auto suspension technological features and highest safety level in its class.

Early in 1999 BMW constructed X5 model – the first Sports Activity Vehicle (SUV) model I the world. BMW X5 owing to elegancy and practicality set new car mobility standard.

Another victory in BMW history connected with Z8 model construction in 1999. This sportive car delighted all car specialists and enthusiasts.
In 1999 BMW surprised the auto world by introduction to Frankfurt International Motor Show its concept Z9 Gran Tourismo.

Nowadays BMW Company that started its history from a small factory manufacturing air-craft motors owns 5 plants in Germany and 12 throughout the world. In fact, BMW is one of few car manufacturing companies that does not use robots in automobiles assembling procedure – all BMW cars are hand made while computers are entrusted just perform final diagnostics of cars assembled.

Carl Rapp and Gustav Otto being in spite of all prohibitions still faithful and devoted to their love towards motors decided to start the way from zero level. The first post-war model issued by BMW came 1-cylinder R24 motorcycle assembled handicraft in work shops nearly primitively. In 1951 appeared the first post-war automobile in BMW history though it brought neither popularity nor financial profit to BMW.

In 1955 BMW commenced R50 and R51 motorcycle model production – new generation with fully sprung chassis. Additionally BMW issued midget Isetta – strange symbiosis of motorcycle and automobile. BMW Isetta had three wheels, one door opening frontward and had an immense success in postwar exhausted and poor Germany. But suddenly constructors applied to inventing large expensive limousines that could hardly gain considerable market demand given economic situation. The financial losses of this production strategy put BMW on the verge of failure. It was the only occasion in BMW history when the market conjuncture was not examined properly and finally this raised the question of company selling.

Mercedes-Benz hurried to express its readiness to purchase BMW but the deal was prevented by ordinary shares holders, BMW labor and trade agents. After the capital restructuring BMW managed to continue its functioning and for the third time in its history BMW began everything from nothing, from the start line.

In 1956 Count Albrecht Goertz who lived in New York created the sensational sportive automobile – BMW 507. In 1956 newspapers were reporting: “BMW 507 excelled even Italian cars..”. 507 was offered in roadster version as well as classical with hardtop. Its 8-cylinder 3.2 150 h/p engine was bringing this car to 220 km/h speed. The entire number of BMW 507 manufactured between 1956 and 1959 amounted to 252. Today it is one of the most scarce and expensive collectible car.

In 1959 was constructed BMW 700 model attached by air cooing system. This model played an important role in BMW history as enabled the company to consolidate its financial situation, establish basis for further make’s success and achieve sportive victories.

In 1962 came out BMW 1500 – light compact sportive 4-door car was so rapturously accepted by customers and gained so great popularity that BMW manufacturing facilities could hardly follow market demand for 1500.

In 1966 debuted BMW 1600-2 – a 2-door model which served a basis for successful series of models creation meaning 1502 up to 2002 turbo supercharged ones. Their success in car market enabled BMW to revive 1930s tradition of constructing 6-cylinder models. With 2500 and 2800 model BMW history second time was marked by entering big sedan segment entering. In fact, 1960s became the most prosperous even assuming all the previous BMW history periods.

In 1969 BMW moved motorcycle manufacturing facilities to Berlin and right after launches new “opposite series”. In 1976 on R100 RS motorcycle was pioneered with full-size cowl attachment. In 1983 K100 motorcycle with 4-cylinder in-line arrangement was manufactured. This model also equipped with water cooling and fuel injection became very popular. In the year of 100th anniversary of motorcycle invention (1885) BMW motorcycle production volume amounted to 37 000 units. 1989 was marked by debut of K1 model.

In 1970 BMW history brought first model of its famous series – 3-serie, 5-serie, 6-serie and 7-serie. After the company introduced its 5-serie it discovered for itself basically new market segment – business-class sedans adding this to traditional sportive model specialization.

Coupe 3.0 CSL which starting with 1973 brought BMW six European champion titles allowed the company to make one more serious step ahead. This model was containing an array of important and effective technical innovations: 6-cylinder engine with 4 valves per cylinder, ABS-attached brakes system – uncompromising novelty of the time.

In 1977 BMW history could celebrate one more important event – 7-serie launch crowned total model line-up renewal.

In 1986 the world car stage was honored as it later proved by debut of BMW M3 – the most successful road-circuit racing model. This compact 2-door car was developed for both – serial manufacturing and auto sport events. This entailed for BMW a great triumph as in 1987 Roberto Raviglia with BMW M3 won world road-circuit racing championship. But not only as the following 5 years BMW M3 was dominating the autosport stage.

In 1987 BMW issued new roadster first destined as experimental model but as it occurred later BMW Z1 manufactured in 8 000 number continued the tradition of BMW 30s and 50s roadsters. At the same time Z1 had uncompromising ultra-modern technologies and outstanding aerodynamics. As well in 1987 BMW one of the first began to apply engine power electronic regulation.

In 1990 BMW manufactured dream-coupe – 850i model. This de luxe car was powered by V12 engine endowed with outstanding and uncompromising speed launching BMW 850i from any gear impetuously. Basically new rear integral axle of BMW 850i quite uniquely combined sportive capabilities with high-level comfort.

The same 1990 year when Germany united BMW established BMW Rolls-Royce GmbH Company and revived its early days manufacturing tradition of air-craft motor, so next 1991 BMW introduced new BR-700 engine. In addition at the beginning of 90s BMW issued third generation of 3-serie compact sportive cars and 8-serie coupe.

To study Opel industry history one should turn to its founder Adam Opel. Adam Opel was born on May 9, 1837 in Russelsheim. He studied with his father (a locksmith) till the age of 20, when he went to work as an apprentice locksmith to Belgium, in Liege, Brussels, and Paris. While in Paris (1858), Adam saw the latest wonder of engineering greatly impressed him: the sewing machine. In 1859, he went to work for a maker of sewing machines to get a closer look. When returned (1862) he rented his uncle’s cow stall and started a sew machines production.

In 1867 Adam built a new two story factory near the railroad station. He attached a new home to his factory and married (1868) the daughter of a well-to-do family Sophie Marie Scheller who afterwards helped him finish the plant. The craftsman business succeeded. Sophie gave birth to five sons: Carl, Wilhelm, Heinrich, Friedrich and Ludwig. Couple of years later the production volume went up to 8,000 units/year some parts of which to be exported abroad. In the 1880's sewing machine production was increasing with more than a half million machines produced by 1899. Five sons helped Adam manage the business. At odd moments the workshop produced bicycles.

The Opel bicycles became a popular brand name in Europe due to the sons’ keenness on racing. During their sport life Carl had won 60 European grand prix, Wilhelm - 70, Heinrich-150, Fritz-180, and Ludwig -100 prices.


In 1893 Wilhelm Opel went to the USA to unveil their production articles to the Auto Show in Chicago. By 1894 the Opel Company had produced 2000 bicycles/year. In 1895 Adam Opel died from typhus succeeding the business to his family and marking finishing of the initial and basic stage in Opel history. The company was managed by his widow Sophie holding the primary interest and his two eldest sons with lesser shares. By the end of the century Opel factory employed 600 workers. Sewing machines and bicycles were in great demand however the brothers started to look for a partner for producing cars on their factory in Rüsselsheim. The German famous manufacturers Benz and Daimler rejected the offer of cooperation.

In 1899 the brothers turned to Friedrich Lutzmann from Dessau owning “Anhaltische Motorwagenfabrik” to form a joint automotive manufacturing in Anhalt, Germany. The Opel brothers worked for two years in partnership with Lutzmann building up the production of automobiles in Rüsselsheim. Together they produced their first model called Opel-Luftzmann (1899). By 1901 65 cars had been produced in the factories. The car production was doing badly with sales of 11 vehicles only. In 1901 the Opel separated from Lutzmann. When visiting the Nuremberg Motor Show the brothers exposed the Opel production shortcomings and signed a new contract with Alexandre Darracq. The Opel was licensed to produce vehicles for 7 years. Jointly, in 1902 they began producing French Darracq models and selling them under the brand name "Opel-Darracq". They were Opel bodies mounted on a Darracq platform and powered by a 1,1 lit 8 hp 2-cylinder engine. The first Opel motorcycle was built as well.

In 1902 the Opel produced its own automobile - Opel-Motorwagen 10/12 Tonneau The car had 2cyl, 2365cc 12 hp engine with a top speed of 30km/h. Later on the Company released "10/12 PS" which made its debut at the Hamburg Motor Show. The car had 1,8 lit 12 hp 1884cc engine accelerating the car up to 45km/h. "10/12 PS" was applied with the Opel R&D available from the cooperation with Darraqc. The year became a debut for the Opel sports activity. The Opel factory car team had won a lot of competitions. The triumph served as the Opel production advertisement.

In 1903 the Opel produced the first 4-cyl model "20/22PS". The car was successful and the company managed to sell 178 vehicles and 798 units in 1909. The Opel went on opening up a production of the upper class vehicles and released "35/40 PS" powered by 6,9 lit engine. In 1906 the Opel opened one more factory in Berlin.

By 1907, the year of the contract expiry with “Darraqc”, the Opel Company became very popular brand mark in German. The 1000th car released.
In 1910 the leading car manufacturers were “Benz” and “Mercedes” however the Opel made a “breakthrough” to the European markets due to its "4/8 PS" Doctorwagen. The car had 1029cc 8 hp S4 engine with a top speed 50km/h. “Doctorwagen” estimated at 3950DM was in great demand with doctors and lawyers. That was the first step to producing vehicles widely available for the average consumer.

In 1910 the car assembly method was modified and allowed to produce vehicles on various chassis. Sewing machine production reached its 1 million units in 1911 and was replaced by truck assembly. The Opel engines were used in Euler biplanes. 1-2 cylinder engines production was ceased- the Opel started producing 4-cyl engines only.
In 1912 the Company released the 10000th vehicle.

By 1914 the Opel had become the largest German manufacturer of motor vehicles. In 1914 the most powerful engine of that time was built by the Opel engineers. The model "260 PS" was powered by 12.0 4-cyl 16 valve engine. The first 6-cyl 4,7 lit engine was installed in the model "18/50 PS" (1918). Since 1918 the Opel has used electric headlights for its cars.

The new decade was a terrible ordeal for the company. The post War crisis badly hit the Opel car production. In the defeat Germany an automobile became a luxury and decreased in demand. Moreover the plant in Russelsheim was occupied by French troops. In the early 1920's the volume production fell down to 910 vehicles a year. To survive the crisis the company needed an inexpensive affordable car to create a high demand.

The Opel fixed upon Citroen that was simply copied. Opel 4/12 Laubforsch or "Tree Frog had 2.0 12 hp S4 with top speed of 72km/h. The resemblance was actually formal - Opel changed and modified some parts and the model, put on the production line. In 1924 the Opel invested one million gold marks in modification of the production process and became the first German car manufacturer to introduce a mass production assembly line. The first car produced with the new technology was the very two-seater Opel Laubfrosch (5). The car cost 4,500 marks but the price reduced to 1,990 marks within six years due to the assembly line and great demand.

In 1925 the Opel released "10/14" equipped with 2,6 lit engine and the more powerful cars "10/35" and "14/38" with 4-cyl engines as well as racing vehicles. In 1927 the manufacturer started producing comfortable models powered by 6-cyl engines. With a market share of 37.5 percent and 42,771 units sold, the Opel became the largest car manufacturer in Germany in 1928. In that time the Opel RAK rocket-propulsion program was at the limelight of public.

With Opel Rak (1928) the citizens of Berlin witnessed the car powered by 24 solid propellant rockets able accelerate up to 238 km/h. The Opel released a new model “Regent” equipped with 8-cyl 5972cc engine. The car features headlights mounted at the car fenders. Despite all modifications and innovations the actual state of affairs was fairly bad. Without war orders the Opel turned out to be on the verge of bankruptcy. The only thing to support the company was a corporate merger. The brothers Opel started secret negotiations with the General Motors Corporation (GM) about selling the Opel control stock. Wilhelm and Friedrich- the rest of the brothers -resolved to sell the company.

In March 1929 GM’s proclaimed to take over 80 per cent of the Opel for $26 mil. entitled to buy the rest part that was subsequently taken up in 1931. According to the agreement GM left the Opel its independence in all areas. At that time of the Opel history employed 13000 workers assembling 500 vehicles and 6000 bicycles a year.

In 1933 the Opel-GM released its first small displacement car 1.2L. The car equipped with 4-cyl 23 hp engine was very easy to drive and inexpensive (a definite advantage due to the Depression). The four-seat "1,2L" accelerated to 75km/h. The car had four versions and cost 2650 – 3300 PM. The total series production amounted to 29 000 vehicles. The modified version of "1,2L"- “P4” was released in 1934. The model (2 body door sedan, cabrio and special sedan) had been produced until 1938. The Opel production went up due to the cheap and simple cars.

In 1935 Germany became the second Europe’s largest car manufacturer. Moreover the Opel was the first to assemble all-metal body vehicles in Germany. That year the Opel put a truck plant (Blitz) into operation in Brandenburg. The plant volume production was 25000 trucks per year. The logo for trucks was a forked lightning. Subsequently the logo was applied for the following Opel models except the vehicles to be exported abroad. This year the company released over 100,000 vehicles a year. The figure includes 25,000 Blitz light duty trucks produced at the new plant in Brandenburg.

The same year the Opel history was marked by the legendary Opel Olympia that It was the first mass-produced German car to have an all-steel integral body and frame. For the first time the headlights were enclosed in body. The car had 26 hp 1288cc 4-cyl SV accelerating to 95km/h. Its small weight (865kg) and aerodynamics improved the performance and fuel consumption. Opel Olimpia total production amounted to 81 661 units within two years.

In 1936 the Opel sold its bicycle plant to NSU in Neckarsuim, which started making bicycles at about the same time as Opel. During this period, the production capacity for bicycles was steadily reduced in favor of the constantly rising demand for passenger cars. The Opel released the most compact car Opel Kadett. The Kadett was powered by 23 hp 1.4 lit S4 with a top speed of 100km/h.

Small displacement cars such as Opel Olimpia and Opel Kadett became a symbol of that time. Over 100000 units of Olympia and Kadett had been assembled before World War II. While the period the connection with GM had given it greater access to the world market. New bases were established in Japan, China, and various countries in South America. The Opel had also produced two 6-cyl engine vehicles Opel Super (1937), Opel Kapitan (1939) and Opel Admiral (1938).

Opel Kapitan became a very successful car. With a 2.5 liter 6-cyl engine, all-steel body, front independent suspension, hydraulic shock absorbers, hot water heating w/electric blower and central speedometer. 25,374 Kapitans had left the factory before W.W.II. Opel Admiral was equipped with 3.6 lit 6-cyl 75 hp and run at a maximal speed of 132 km/h. In 1939 the Nazi claimed the Opel to produce Opel-Blitz Autobus. Opel-Blitz Autobus, a command vehicle, had been produced as a truck in various versions throughout the War. Besides, the Opel opened up a production of landing gears, cockpits, bullet-proof fuel tanks and howitzers.

In 1940 the Opel produced the 1st mil vehicle. However the car production except army vehicles was ceased in October. Opel-mPI Kfz.15, four-wheel-drive trucks Blitz were produced in the plant in Brandenburg. In 1942 the General Motors referred the Opel to battle casualties with damage estimated at $34 980024. Moreover the Opel became A National Socialist Enterprise Model. In August 1944 Russelsheim was attacked and utterly ruined by the British Air Forces.

After the War Russelsheim was in the American occupation zone and the Opel plant in Brandenburg in the Soviet one. The greater part of the plant equipment and Opel Kadett technical documentation was removed to the Soviet Union with production started under the make Moscvitch (400/401). In 1950 the Moscvitch vehicles were exported to Finland and Belgium. In 1948 the General Motors Corporation assumed control of the Opel and resolved to resume small displacement cars manufacture. The plant reconstruction began in 1945 and shortly thereafter in 1946. That year the company released its first postwar 1,5-t Blitz trucks.

The Opel plant in Russelsheim had been completely restored by 1950. The first cars to be produced were successful prewar models Olympia and Captain. The revised versions performance differed from those of 1930’s. The new Captain (1951) was powered by 2473cc 6-cyl 55 hp engine accelerating to 126 km/h. By 1950, the annual production of the plant once again reached over 100,000 vehicles. In 1953 the Opel released Opel Record. The car with its "shark fish muzzle" had an aggressive look. Opel Record was inexpensive, roomy, fast and extremely durable. The Opel had assembled the 2nd mil vehicle by 1956. The production was duplicated along with a launch of the new plant for assembling bodies K 40. In June, 1958 the Opel produced Captain P. The car was 4.8 meters long, had a completely radical body style and two colored lacquer finish. By mid 1959 about 35,000 units had left the plant.


In 1962 the Opel launched a plant in Bochum and started assembling new Kadetts. The 100th anniversary was celebrated. In 1965 at the Motor Show in Frankfurt the company unveiled a concept of the sport car Opel GT Coupe. The 1st mil Kadett left the factory in Bochum. The same 1966 the company set up Dudenhofen Proving Ground in Germany and launched a new plant for utility production in Keiserslautern. A year later "Commodore" released. 1968 was marked by Opel GT appearance. In 1969 the Opel started equipping Captain, Admiral and Diplomat with direct-injection engines.

1970 year in Opel history started with Ascona production, 5 years later the model was deeply modified. The Opel automotive production volume exceeded 10 mil units. In 1972 the model “D”, subsequently the bestseller, made its debut in Geneva. The company became the German second largest automotive manufacturer with 20,4% share of the market. The sporty coupe “Opel Manta” was released. In 1977 the Opel unveiled Senator and Monza models.

In 80’s the company initiated several ecological projects some of which were applied in automotive manufacturing. The Opel was the first company to produce ecologically pure water- based paints. Over 500 mil DM were invested in building of new paint workshop in Rüsselsheim. In 1982 the company started building a new plant in Saragossa (Spain) for assembling a small displacement car Corsa. In 1983 the Opel produced the 20th mil vehicle. The asbestos-free clutch plates were included in standard kitting. In 1985 the Opel was the first manufacturer to unveil the model line-up fitted with catalytic converters. A year later the company unveiled Omega powered by a wide band of petrol and diesel engines with reduced exhaust.

In 1987 Omega became “a car of the year”. The Opel celebrates its 125th anniversary. The new paint workshop in Bochum set ecological standards of car painting. That year the company unveiled “Senator” leading the Opel model line-up. In 1988 the company released a model of the same type “Vectra” which set new standards of aerodynamics. In 1989 the Opel assembled the 25th mil “Omega Caravan”.

The company was the first to fit all petrol engines vehicles with a reserved catalytic converter in Germany.

In 90’s the Opel made a big success in enriching its line-up, in developing of new technologies and internationalization of the Opel industry. The Opel Technical Development Center in Russelsheim, Germany became the core for the GM international development strategy and the leading source of projects and technologies. The Opel made big investments in the European plants, new production facility around the world. The company is ready to open up new world markets. In 1992 the Opel plant in Eisenach (Germany) established a new set for the GM future production facilities. In 1993 The Opel Technical Development Center in Rüsselsheim was charged with drafting and manufacturing development outside the North America. In 1994 the Opel released the 30th mil vehicle. The FIFA Football World Cup in the U.S.A. is sponsored by the Opel.

The manufacturer replaced Cadet line with new Astra family. The compact coupe of the same type Tigra was released. In 1995 the Opel was the first German car manufacturer to launch an assembly plant in Poland. In 1997 the Opel and Bertone marked the 10-year partnership. During the period approximately 105.000 Opel vehicles were assembled at the Bertone plant in Turin (Italy). The Opel unveiled 6-8 seats estate Sintra. In 1999 the German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder and Prime Minister Hans Eichel met with the Company leadership to mark “100 Years of Opel Automobiles”

In 2000 the Opel built a new plant in Russelsheim. The foremost automobiles were unveiled. The company released a new generation of engines- ECOTEC- featuring a high power and a low level of the environment pollution. In 2001 Adam Opel AG and GM Europe announced about the restructuring program targeted to rehabilitating of positions in the world market and the brand reform with around 10 mil Euro to be invested in. All this resulted in producing of two new models – five-seat minivan Opel Meriva and Opel Signum. The company introduced the warrant of all production. “Astra” celebrated the 10th anniversary. From the production on, over 7 mil “Astra” automobiles had been sold in 90 countries.

In 2002 the Opel planned to release a new model version per half a year for the following five years. A new Vectra was launched at the ultra modern plant in Russelsheim. Corsa marked the 20th anniversary. During the period over 11 mil vehicles had been released.

Along with Agila microvan, Speedster roadster, Corsa and Astra Coupe new generations as well as Astra produced as Eco 4 - the first 4-lit compact class vehicles - and the third generated Corsa, the Opel launched new models equipped with navigation and mobile telecommunication systems. The company unveiled a two-seat mid engine sport car Speadster and Zafira Concept fitted with fuel cell Zafira "HydroGen1" with output power of 74kwt/ 100bhp, a maximum torque of 150Nm at 3800 revs and at a top speed of 172 km/h.

During the post war time the Opel released more than forty models. At present the Rüsselsheim plant produces around a quarter of the total German volume production the greater part of which to be exported.

A great number of automobiles sold by GM around the world are the posteriors of Corsa, Astra, Vectra and Omega. Some of the Opel models are sold under brand names Vauxhall in England, Holden in Australia, Chevrolet in Latin America and Subaru in Japan. "Adam Opel AG" is the first-rate GM branch outside the U.S. The company possesses engineering plants in Rüsselsheim, Bochom, Keiserslautern, Berlin, Antwerp (Belgium) and employed around 60000 workers.

Cars under Loutzky brandmark were constructed by the Russian engineer Boris Grigoryevich Loutzky. In 1897 he set up “Gesellschaft fuer Automobilwagenbau System Loutzky” automotive company in Berlin. His first cars were shown off at the Berlin Motor Show in 1899. These were light-duty vehicles with an engine under a driver seat. Loutzky engines had a mechanical drive of both exhaust and admission valves. Due to the fact a 0.62lit. 2 engines 5,5bhp was 50 percent more powerful compared to other analogues. The engines had a spherical combustion chamber and a two spark ignition.
Historians differ in their opinions according Loutzky activity: he’s considered a German engineer for one hand and his activity is depreciated in “Motorfahrzeuge und Motorenfabrik Berlin” for another. “Motorfahrzeuge und Motorenfabrik Berlin” had manufactured “Daimler- Marienfelde” and is regarded as one of the oldest Mercedes-Benz branch available. However that’s “Mercedes-Benz” historians who have left Loutzky out. Although that’s an undeniable fact the cars assembled by “Lessner” under “Mercedes-Benz” license in 1904 had a double brand name “Daimler- Loutzky”.

Ford Motor Company – American Automobile Company specializing in manufacturing passenger cars of “Ford”, “Mercury”, “Mercury” marques, as well as trucks and farm machinery.

In addition Ford Company owns Jaguar automobile company. Ford is headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, right not far from the site where Henry Ford’s parents owned a farm.

Ford Company was founded by Henry Ford in 1903 and from the very initials was aimed at issuing widely available cheap automobiles. That was the start of Ford history.

The first model was A, in 1908 it was followed by T model nicknamed by caricaturists as “Tin Lizzy”. The popularity of Ford T model was so scalable and overwhelming that constantly growing Ford factories could hardly cover demand for Ford automobiles. During the first manufacturing year of T model Ford sold out 10 660 cars that hit all known records in automobile industry.

In 1913 Ford Company by inserting in production interchangeable parts standardization method and the automobiles conveyorized assembly left important mark in automobile history. This also enabled to enhance labour productivity 40-60%; at the same time the salary of workers for Ford rose so that twice exceeded the industry average rate. At every Ford factory 8-hour working day was implemented. By 1915 Ford T model was manufactured in 500 000 numbers and in 1923 every second car in the US was issued by Ford factories.

In 1920-30s Ford Motor actively establishes its offices in many countries of the world including Soviet Russia as “GAZ” and “Amo” factories were erected. Although Henry negatively regarded October revolution he saw that Russia had promising future given industrialization.

In 1922 the purchase of “Lincoln” Company marked important step in Ford history. Lincoln management was entrusted to Edsel Ford. Authoritarian ruling style of Henry Ford was constantly under criticizing pressure of mass media while his trade unions aversion caused even real baiting campaign.
At the same time by the end of 1920s the Americans become palled on by the Ford T model and the leading positions were seized by General Motors.

In response Ford Company introduced A model but still Chevrolet and Buick popularity is more scalable.
In 1929 the Great Depression sharply decreased automobiles market that finally lead to salary downfall two times.

In 1932 came another significant milestone in Ford history as the V8 type engines mass manufacturing was launched. Ford Motor Company was the first automobile manufacturing company that managed to construct monolithic 8-cylinder block while its main competitors performed that after many years. By the time Ford cars given their reliable engines became favorites of practical Americans. The Company established new assembly factory in Cologne.

Initiated in 1938 Mercury automobile make gained considerable success. Formally the company was ruled by Edsel Ford but his authority was incomparable to his father’s. In fact, this period till the WW II start known in Ford history as stagnation. During the war the company was activated and loaded by military demands.

Between 1942 and 1947 passenger cars manufacturing was sharply stopped as Ford Company invested its efforts to military purposes. Enormous military production program initiated by Edsel Ford entailed in assembling 8 600 V-24 Liberator four-engine bombers, 57 000 engines for air-crafts and over 250 000 tanks, anti-tank mount added by other military machinery within less than 3 years.

In 1966 Citroen history was marked by one more important model construction as jointly with German NSU company Citroen issues model with Wankel engine. In 1965 Citroen merged into “Panhar Levassor” and in 1976 became a component part of Peugeot Concern preserving the rights of self-sufficient department with own automobile make brand. Citroen engineers significant contribution to automobile development in general was proved by the fact that in 1989 the Company introduced the third generation hydroactive suspension that was automatically adapting to road paving and driver’s style of car managing.

In 1992 November Citroen introduced Xantia – the model that was put into production in 1993 as Citroen BX model follower. The importance of Xantia in Citroen history was the design that substantially defined the posterior style of Citroen automobiles.

Debuted at the Geneva International Motor Show 1994 minivan Citroen Evasion came as the result of joint Peugeot/Citroen — Fiat/Lancia development.
In December 1995 Citroen unveiled another its model – Saxo compact. In summer 1996 Saxo 5-door version attached with hydro transmission and diesel appeared. In 1999 Citroen Saxo revised second generation was introduced to Frankfurt Motor Show featuring out new refined design.

1996 was marked in Citroen history by issuing Berlingo wagon for active use. Starting with 1999 Citroen Berlingo was manufactured with 1.8 gas or 1.9 D diesel engine also added by AWD feature.

In 1997 Citroen constructed Xsara family model that gained wide recognition. In 2000 Xsara was restyled essentially into new exterior and became the most popular model in Citroen range.

In 2000 as well Citroen Xsara Picasso appeared on automotive stage – one more company bestseller.

But the peak of Citroen model line-up came C5 model debuted at the Paris International Motor Show 2000. C5 was meant to replace Citroen Xantia.

2000 year was rich for events and new models in Citroen history. This fact was supported also by Citroen Pluriel Concept model issuing – multi-purpose scalable-adjustable automobile that didn’t belong to any known car classes.

Soon Citroen decided to consolidate its positions in the compact sedan class within the European car market and constructed Citroen C3 model in addition to revised Saxo.
In fact, among hundreds of car manufacturing companies offering thousands of various models and their versions Citroen has always held and holds deserving position. This is apparently the right idea what Andrea Citroen was wishing and dreaming of. In his turn it was he who set basics for French automobile industry.

Citroen, French automobile company dealing with manufacturing cars and forming “Peugeot” Corporation.
The Citroen history was commenced in 1919 by Andre Citroen as he founded “Societe anonyme Andre Citroen” aimed at producing inexpensive cars.

In fact, the first model in Citroen history became concurrently the first serially manufactured automobile model in Europe. The “A” model, also known as “10 PS 8/10” was powered by 4-cylinder inline 1327 cc displacement engine with 18 h/p at 2100 rev. Citroen 10 PS 8/10 model was featuring out its light-weight and managing easiness. Remarkably this first in Citroen history model had good soft suspension that subsequently became the brand mark of all the Citroen models.

The facts listed above generated an image of very simple and easy-to-handle car for Citroen automobiles that contributed to considerable make popularity.
The first model in Citroen history was followed by 5 CV one – 4-cylinder midget-car, no front brakes but with quarter-elliptic springs both in front and rear. This model was able to ride over country bad roads. The production methods Citroen borrowed from Henry Ford. In 1921 first Citroen taxi cars appeared and by 1933 90% of Paris operating taxi were Citroens.

In 1921 the A model was replaced by B2 one powered by 1452 cc that came with essential changes comparing to predecessor. In 1923 Citroen constructed a batch of sporty 300 B 2 Caddy – elegant 3-seater that gained great popularity and still causes big interest of automobile antiques enthusiasts.
In spring 1922 was launched manufacturing of 2-seater Roadster-C attached with 856 cc engine.

Due to vividly yellow coloration this model was caressingly called “lemonee”; in addition its cabriole version was manufactured as well.
Right by June, 1924 production Citroen output overpassed 250 automobiles per day while the main plant extended so that covered the whole territory of Paris 15th district. Besides, Citroen was introduced by its branches in Belgium, England, Netherlands, Denmark and Switzerland. One more fact In Citroen history features out this make in car history – Citroen was among the first in Europe to start applying steel bodies to automobile manufacturing instead of wooden ones.

Thereafter Citroen generated such models as B12 and B14 imparted with convenient dashboard and adjustable seats became the most comfortable serially manufactured cars. In fact within two years Citroen managed to issue 132 483 autos of B14 model. Soon inheriting B 14 model Citroen AC4 and AC6 models appeared meaning the initials of the manufacturer and the number of cylinders. In 1931 Citroen history was marked by C 6F based new Citroen CGL (Citroen Grand Luxe) upcoming with 2650 cc 53 h/p and premium high quality inner trim features.

In the times of famous Asia-round Run finishing in The Himalaya Citroen AC4 and AC6 proved their advantages. In 1932 Citroen issued C 4 IX model – simplified version of C 4 model with 30 h/p 1628 cc engine but this one didn’t attained wide popularity and general recognition.

At the Paris Auto Show in 1934 Citroen introduced its current models range – 8, 10, 15 models and lightened versions of the 10 and 15. In April, 1934 new 7 model was invented. Disproportionably big financial expenses for Great Depression times on promoting that subsequently successful model attached with scarce for its time front-driveline caused finally sweeping events in Citroen history so that Andre Citroen lost control over his company despite Citroen 7 model occurred popular and was sold till 1957. In fact, Citroen Company came under the control of Michelin Group.

That was the commence of front wheel drive automobiles history.
In 1955 DS model was introduced – the one not expensive, convenient, sizable gaining wide popularity.