Compact Cars

The year 1956 marks the return of the crisis in the automotive field. Indeed, following the nationalization of the Suez Canal by General Nasser fuel prices soar. Following the economic shock that follows, consumer attitudes change radically a period of significant growth, the automobile must now be "pragmatic".


Automakers are therefore obliged to take into account a major problem that was not one before, namely the fuel consumption of their vehicles. Automotive groups develop compact models, simply referred to as "Compact Cars", not exceeding 4.50 m. Americans are particularly affected by this phenomenon, occurring in 1959 smaller vehicles, while remaining nevertheless impressive in comparison to the European market Chevrolet Corvair, Ford Falcon or Valiant Chrysler are among the most connus. Much smaller cars will experience success even more incredible, like the Austin Mini.