The 1973 oil crisis forced the American automotive industry into a period of dramatic change, marked by stiff foreign competition, tougher product regulations and suddenly altered consumer demand. With gas prices soaring and the economy in a veritable tailspin, muscle cars and the massive "need-for-speed" engines of the late '60s were out, and fuel efficient compacts were in. By 1980, American manufacturers were churning out some of the most feature laden, yet smallest and most fuel efficient cars they had ever built. This exhaustive reference work details every model from each of the major American manufacturers from model years 1973 through 1980, including various "captive imports." Within each model year, it reports on each manufacturer's significant news and details every model offered: its specifications, powertrain offerings, prices, standard features, major options, and production figures. Has approximately 1,300 photographs. American Motors Corporation -- Buick -- Cadillac -- Checker -- Chevrolet -- Chrysler -- CitiCar -- Dodge -- Ford -- GMC -- Indianapolis 500 pace car -- Jeep -- Lincoln -- Mercury -- Oldsmobile -- Plymouth -- Pontiac.

1973 -- 1974 -- 1975 -- 1976 -- 1977 -- 1978 -- 1979 -- 1980 -- Appendices : I. Minor makes and replicars ; II. History of captive imports, 1973-1980 ; III. Pace cars and Motor Trend "Car of the Year" winners ; IV. Option groups and packages ; V. General Motors engine RPO and VIN codes ; VI. Tire sizes, identification and recalls ; VII. Aftermarket convertible conversions ; VIII. Concept cars ; IX. Model and body style codes ; X. Manufacturer logos, 1973-1980.