The landscape of American automotive history is a rich tapestry woven with tales of innovation, bold design, and the relentless pursuit of speed and style. While giants like Ford, Chevrolet, and Chrysler have stood the test of time, many once-prominent brands that captivated the nation’s drivers eventually faded from showrooms, becoming cherished memories in family photo albums and the quiet conversations of enthusiasts.
These brands, each with a unique story, played a significant role in shaping how America drove. They introduced groundbreaking features, defined new market segments, and for a time, were familiar sights in driveways, magazine advertisements, and weekend discussions across the country. They ranged from trusted family car manufacturers to those that dared to be flashier or more refined, demonstrating a diversity that truly reflected the evolving tastes of the American public.
Our journey today focuses on 14 such American car brands, carefully selected for their meaningful place in the market and their lasting cultural presence. We delve into their individual narratives, exploring their initial success, their distinctive characteristics, and the complex reasons – from shifting consumer preferences and internal competition to economic downturns and corporate restructurings – that ultimately led to their quiet retreat or dramatic exit from the automotive stage. Each of these names once held significant meaning for the American buyer, and their stories offer invaluable lessons on the dynamic nature of an industry that is constantly moving forward.
1. **Plymouth**Plymouth entered the automotive scene in 1928, introduced by Chrysler as an affordable, entry-level brand. From its inception, Plymouth resonated with a broad segment of the American public, quickly establishing itself as a reliable, practical, and accessible choice for families. For decades, it held a clear and respected position on the street, often regarded as a smart and steady decision for car buyers seeking value without sacrificing quality.
Initially, Plymouth found considerable success, playing a pivotal role in Chrysler’s expansion throughout the mid-20th century. Models like the Valiant and Duster became known for their dependability, while the iconic Plymouth Barracuda and Road Runner cemented the brand’s presence in the burgeoning muscle car era, earning a loyal following among performance enthusiasts. These vehicles, with their blend of performance and practicality, showcased Plymouth’s ability to cater to diverse consumer needs.
However, as the automotive landscape evolved, Plymouth’s distinct identity began to blur. The brand started offering models that bore striking resemblances to those sold by its sister brands, Dodge and Chrysler-branded vehicles. This internal overlap created a lack of differentiation, making it increasingly difficult for Plymouth to stand out in a competitive market. Without a strong, unique reason to capture buyer attention, interest in the brand gradually cooled.
By the 1990s, Plymouth’s market share had significantly eroded. Faced with declining sales and persistent brand identity issues, Chrysler made the difficult decision to discontinue the brand in 2001, bringing its 73-year run to a quiet close. For many drivers, its disappearance was almost imperceptible, a testament to how far its identity had strayed. Plymouth’s end was not a dramatic failure, but a gradual retreat, as buyers had already begun to move on long before the final models rolled off the assembly line.
Read more about: The Engines That Defined an Era: From Historic Roars to Modern Thunder, Discover the Ultimate Muscle Car Powerhouses
2. **Mercury**Ford established Mercury in 1938, positioning it as a mid-range brand designed to bridge the gap between the mainstream Ford lineup and the luxury Lincoln division. This strategic placement carved out a comfortable niche for Mercury, appealing to consumers who desired a step above the everyday without incurring the higher price tag associated with true luxury marques. For many years, Mercury filled this space with a distinctive blend of style, comfort, and ease.
Throughout its history, Mercury enjoyed moderate success, offering more premium versions of Ford vehicles that appealed directly to mid-range buyers. Popular models like the Mercury Cougar and Grand Marquis became staples of the brand, embodying its ethos of accessible sophistication. The Marauder, particularly with its powerful engine options in both the late ’60s and early 2000s, stood out as a full-size sleeper with considerable personality, demonstrating Mercury’s occasional foray into performance.
Despite its long run, Mercury eventually struggled to maintain its unique identity. The space it occupied became increasingly harder to define as other brands either caught up or surpassed it in appeal. More significantly, a pervasive issue of redundancy plagued the brand; most Mercury models became little more than badge-engineered Fords, offering minimal differentiation beyond trim and badging. This lack of a distinct identity meant Mercury stopped truly evolving.
As buyers increasingly looked elsewhere, Mercury’s traction diminished. When Ford began streamlining its operations during the 2008 economic downturn, Mercury was an easy target for discontinuation. Production ended in 2010, or by some accounts, 2011, with little fanfare. Few buyers truly noticed its absence, as the brand had already largely faded from relevance, having served its purpose well during the years it managed to maintain a clear position in the market.
Read more about: Gone But Not Forgotten: 14 Beloved Cars That Vanished Unexpectedly from Production
3. **Pontiac**Established in 1926, Pontiac quickly earned a reputation for personality and excitement, especially during the legendary muscle car era. The brand appealed to drivers who desired a little flash, something with a noticeable road presence that could turn heads without being excessively extravagant. Pontiac exuded a certain attitude that resonated with a wide spectrum of buyers, becoming synonymous with performance-oriented American motoring.
Pontiac’s GTO, introduced in 1964, is widely credited with igniting the muscle car craze in America. With its powerful 389 V8 engine, and later pushing beyond 400 horsepower in Ram Air IV trims, the GTO cemented Pontiac’s status as a formidable manufacturer of high-performance vehicles. Other iconic models such as the Firebird Trans Am and Grand Prix became cultural touchstones, further solidifying the brand’s image. Even into the 2000s, models like the G8 GT offered a potent 6.0L V8 and rear-wheel drive, a rare combination for its class.
However, as the years progressed, Pontiac’s image began to drift. Its models felt less distinct, and the bold, innovative styling that once defined the brand gave way to something more ordinary. Pontiac struggled considerably to redefine itself and find its next chapter in an ever-changing automotive landscape. The brand’s lineup leaned too heavily on rebadged models, diluting its once-strong identity despite a few standouts like the Solstice and the GTO reboot.
When the devastating 2008 financial crisis hit General Motors hard, Pontiac became a casualty of the ensuing corporate restructuring. Declining sales, coupled with the difficulty of justifying its continued existence amidst GM’s numerous offerings, led to the decision to discontinue the brand in 2010. While many people fondly remember Pontiac, especially its earlier, more vibrant years, its end came with little surprise, marking the close of an era for American muscle car enthusiasts.
Read more about: Gone But Not Forgotten: 14 Beloved Cars That Vanished Unexpectedly from Production
4. **Oldsmobile**Oldsmobile, founded in 1897 by Ransom E. Olds, was one of the oldest car manufacturers in the world and held a deeply rooted place in GM’s history. For many years, it represented a significant step up from the usual, embodying progress and serving as a reward for steady work and a sign of moving forward. Oldsmobile sat comfortably in the lives of people who desired something refined and innovative without necessarily reaching for a luxury badge.
The brand was a pioneer in engineering firsts, most notably introducing the Hydra-Matic, the world’s first fully automatic transmission, in 1940. The Toronado, launched in 1966, further showcased Oldsmobile’s innovative spirit by bringing front-wheel drive to a full-size American coupe. Performance models like the 442, packed with big-block V8s, demonstrated the brand’s capability beyond just refinement, offering real performance credentials.
Despite its rich history and innovative spirit, Oldsmobile’s appeal began to fade as time went on. By the 1990s, the brand’s image had become somewhat outdated, and its styling grew harder to place, struggling to differentiate itself from GM’s other offerings. Younger buyers, in particular, looked elsewhere, finding Oldsmobile models less compelling. Sales gradually declined, and vehicles stayed on dealership lots longer than they used to.
GM’s decision to standardize designs across its brands further hurt Oldsmobile’s uniqueness. Faced with dwindling relevance, an aging customer base, and internal competition, General Motors decided to phase out the brand. Oldsmobile was officially discontinued in 2004, with the final model to roll off the line being an Alero. Its demise brought a long and storied history to an end, leaving behind a quiet kind of respect for its past contributions.
Read more about: From Night City’s Ashes: How Cyberpunk 2077 Clawed Its Way Back from Gaming’s Most Infamous Launch to a Resounding Redemption
5. **Saturn**Saturn emerged on the automotive scene in 1985 with a truly different idea. It was conceived by General Motors as a direct response to the increasing popularity of economical Japanese imports, promising a smoother sales process, simpler decisions, and a revolutionary approach to buying a car. This customer-centric philosophy, characterized by no-haggle pricing and a focus on transparency, quickly resonated with many customers and earned Saturn a dedicated, loyal following in its early years.
Early models, such as the Saturn SL and Saturn SC, were modest yet well-received, known for their affordability and fuel efficiency. By the early 2000s, the brand expanded its lineup with models like the Vue and Aura, which offered competitive features and decent driving dynamics, further solidifying its presence. Saturn’s initial success demonstrated that there was a strong appetite for its unique sales model and approach to customer service.
However, despite this promising start, Saturn struggled to maintain its distinctiveness. Over time, the differences that once set it apart began to disappear. The models started to look more like other vehicles on the market, and the innovative buying experience lost its unique charm as GM struggled to keep the brand’s lineup fresh and competitive. Saturn never truly found its second act, with its products increasingly becoming rebadged Opels and Chevys, undermining its original premise of being a “different kind of car company.”
When the auto market tightened significantly during the 2008 financial crisis, Saturn became one of the first brands to go as part of GM’s bankruptcy reorganization and restructuring efforts. Despite attempts to sell the brand, GM ultimately decided to close it in 2010. Saturn, which had arrived with a clear mission to revolutionize car buying, left without much resistance, a poignant reminder of promises that were never fully realized.
Read more about: Gone But Not Forgotten: 14 Beloved Cars That Vanished Unexpectedly from Production
6. **Studebaker**Studebaker’s roots ran incredibly deep in American life, tracing its origins back to wagon manufacturing in 1852 before entering the car business in 1902. For many years, the brand carried a strong reputation for steady quality and durability. Studebaker vehicles were commonly found in small towns and rural roads across the country, often kept for years by the same loyal owners who valued their robust construction and reliability.
The company experienced its peak in the postwar years, recognized for its slick designs and competent V8 engines. Models like the 1953 Starliner coupe were celebrated for their innovative designs. A particular standout was the Avanti, released in 1962, which featured a distinctive fiberglass body and optional supercharged 289 V8 engine, making it remarkably quick even by contemporary standards. These designs were often ahead of their time, showcasing Studebaker’s commitment to engineering and aesthetics.
However, Studebaker struggled considerably to keep pace as the automotive industry shifted rapidly. The rise of bigger players with deeper pockets and more extensive dealer networks chipped away at Studebaker’s market share. The company faced weak financials and poor dealer coverage, which severely hampered its ability to compete effectively against the ‘Big Three’ automakers.
Despite its innovative styling and engineering efforts, Studebaker simply couldn’t sustain its momentum. The name began to slip from public conversation, and production gradually slowed. U.S. production officially ceased in 1963, with Canadian operations following suit in 1966. While a few Avanti-based revivals emerged later, the original brand never returned. Studebaker ended not in a sudden collapse, but in the quiet turning of a page, its name still sparking memories even if it belongs to a much earlier, respected chapter in automotive history.
Read more about: Unleash the Beasts: 14 Legendary American Cars That Roared Through the 1960s, Forging an Unforgettable Automotive Decade
7. **DeSoto**DeSoto was born in 1928, a brand created by Chrysler with the intention of positioning itself between the Dodge and Chrysler marques. It was designed to offer a quiet elegance that appealed to buyers desiring something respectable—a comfortable and polished vehicle that didn’t push too hard into the luxury segment, effectively bridging the gap between basic transportation and more expensive options. For a period, DeSoto successfully held this distinctive place.
The brand found its stride in the 1950s, producing large, stylish cars such as the Fireflite. These models often featured powerful engines, like a 330 cubic inch HEMI V8, and extravagant tailfins, embodying the design trends of the era with a sophisticated flair. The DeSoto Adventurer was among the last models to proudly wear the badge, showcasing the brand’s design capabilities right up to its end.
However, DeSoto began to suffer from Chrysler’s internal competition, finding itself squeezed between Dodge’s increasing performance orientation and Chrysler’s upscale aspirations. Its role within the corporate hierarchy became harder to notice, and the brand saw fewer updates over the years, signifying a gradual withdrawal of corporate attention and investment. This internal struggle, coupled with external pressures like the 1958 recession, severely impacted sales.
As buyers increasingly turned to more visible names within the same showroom, DeSoto’s market presence diminished. Chrysler eventually chose to focus its resources on other brands, leading to the discontinuation of DeSoto in 1961, after only 32 years of production. The final models came and went with little fanfare, and DeSoto, having served its time with grace, quietly slipped into automotive history, remembered for its understated elegance and dignified presence.
Continuing our journey through the annals of American automotive history, we now turn our attention to seven more legendary brands that, despite their significant contributions and distinctive appeals, ultimately succumbed to the relentless pressures of a dynamic industry. These names, while no longer gracing new car showrooms, each tell a compelling story of innovation, aspiration, and the inevitable forces that shape the fates of even the most beloved vehicles.
Read more about: Remember These? 12 Mind-Blowing Classic TV Car Ads That Vanished From Our Screens (But Live On In Our Hearts!)
8. **Hummer**Hummer made an undeniably bold entrance onto the civilian automotive scene, evolving directly from the military Humvee and becoming an impossible-to-miss presence on the roads. Its distinctive, massive look gave it a strong identity in its early years, appealing to buyers who desired an imposing vehicle that communicated size, visibility, and a strong sense of control. The original H1, derived directly from its military counterpart, was far more truck than SUV, packing a powerful 6.5L turbodiesel V8 and boasting serious off-road capabilities that few competitors could match.
As the years progressed into the 2000s, later H2 and H3 models, while still rugged, began to prioritize styling somewhat more than the raw utility of the H1. However, public opinion and consumer tastes began to shift dramatically. The oversized image of Hummer started to wear thin, particularly as environmental concerns gained traction and fuel prices began their ascent. Its reputation as a gas-guzzler became harder to justify for many.
Sales dropped precipitously, and the brand faded rapidly from focus. General Motors eventually killed the brand in 2010 amidst recession-era fuel prices and a fundamental shift in consumer preferences. Despite attempts to sell the marque, the decision was made to discontinue it. Even though GM has since resurrected the name for its all-electric GMC Hummer EV, the original gas-powered Hummers remain a distinct and powerful part of automotive history, representing a unique era of excess and unmistakable presence.
Car Model Information: 2002 Hummer H1 Enclosed
Name: Hummer H1
Manufacturer: AM General
Aka: Hummer HMC (1992–2002),HMMWV (HUMVee)
Production: 1992–2006 (11,818 produced)
ModelYears: 1992–2004 , 2006
Assembly: Mishawaka, Indiana
Class: Full-size,pickup truck
BodyStyle: 4-door Open Top – HMCO , 4-door SUV – HMCS , 4-door Hard Top – HMC4 , 2-door Fleet – KSC2 , 2-door Pickup – XLC2
Related: Humvee
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout,four-wheel drive
Engine: Chevrolet_small-block_engine_(first-_and_second-generation)#L05,V8 engine
Transmission: Automatic transmission,GM 4L80-E transmission
Wheelbase: 130 in
Abbr: on
Length: 184.5 in
Width: 86.5 in
Height: 77 in
Caption: Hummer HMC Soft Top
Categories: 2000s cars, AM General vehicles, All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 1992
Summary: The Hummer H1 is a full-size four-wheel-drive utility vehicle based on the M998 Humvee, which was developed by AM General when it was a subsidiary of American Motors Corporation (AMC). Originally designed strictly for military use, the off-road vehicle was released to the civilian market.
The civilian version was produced from 1992 through 2006 and was the first of what became the Hummer line. AM General built both the H1 and the Humvee in its Mishawaka, Indiana, facility. GM stopped marketing the H1 in the 2006 model year, but AM General continued production of the military Humvee versions through 2018.
Get more information about: Hummer H1
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hummer Model: H1
Price: $138,800 Mileage: 14,702 mi.
Read more about: Gone But Not Forgotten: 14 Beloved Cars That Vanished Unexpectedly from Production
9. **Packard**Packard once stood as the very definition of American automotive prestige, captivating buyers with its unparalleled quality and innovation. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Packard cars effortlessly rivaled Cadillac, not just in luxury, but also in the sheer quality of their engineering and groundbreaking advancements. Models like the Super Eight and Twelve were mechanical heavyweights, featuring remarkably smooth straight-8 or V12 engines and opulent interiors that were meticulously lined with real wood and the finest leather, truly representing the pinnacle of American luxury.
However, the post-World War II landscape proved challenging for Packard. The company struggled significantly to keep pace with a rapidly changing industry and evolving market demands. A pivotal moment, or perhaps a misstep, was the failed merger with Studebaker in the mid-1950s. This alliance, rather than strengthening both brands, instead diluted Packard’s distinct identity and ultimately caused its cars to lose their once-sharp edge and allure among discerning buyers.
By 1958, the once-illustrious Packard name was officially dead, marking the end of an era. Subsequent attempts to revive the Packard brand never found any lasting success. Today, these magnificent originals remain highly sought-after museum pieces and collector’s items, forever tied to a different economic era where handcrafted quality and sheer opulence reigned supreme. Its demise wasn’t a sudden collapse but a slow decline, stemming from a diluted identity and an inability to adapt to new market realities.
Car Model Information: 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE 4MOTION
Name: Packard Super Eight
Caption: 1933 Packard 1004 Super Eight Coupe Roadster
Manufacturer: Packard
Production: 1933–1951
Engine: 384.4 cuin
Abbr: on (1946)
Transmission: Manual transmission
Assembly: Packard Automotive Plant,Detroit,Michigan,United States
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Related: Packard Custom Super Eight,Packard Station Sedan,Packard Twelve
BodyStyle: coupé,Convertible (car),Sedan (automobile),station wagon
Wheelbase: {{convert,127,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Length: 208 in
Predecessor: Packard Eight
Successor: Packard 300
Categories: 1930s cars, 1940s cars, 1950s cars, Articles with short description, Cars discontinued in 1951
Summary: The Packard Super Eight was the larger of the two eight-cylinder luxury automobiles produced by the Packard Motor Car Company of Detroit, Michigan. It shared frames and some body types with the top model Packard Twelve. The 1933–1936 Packard Super Eight was a big classic. In 1937, it was reduced to a smaller and lighter design. Following the discontinuation of the Sixteenth Series Twelve after the 1939 model year, a new Custom Super Eight One-Eighty was derived from the Super Eight as the new top car range. The Super Eight was renamed the Super Eight One-Sixty starting a naming convention change in 1940. These two models shared most mechanical components including the 160 HP straight Eight engine and continued to be regarded as the Senior Packard.
After 1942, Packard concentrated on the new Clipper styling that was developed for an upper-class sedan the previous year. There were Super Clippers and Custom Super Clipper in the One-Sixty and One-Eighty tradition until 1947. After a heavy facelift, the name Clipper was dropped.
For 1948 the most senior Custom Super Eight One-Eighty became the Custom Super Eight, while its slightly lower-priced sibling, the Super Eight One-Sixty, once again became simply the Super Eight with the more modestly priced Eight with five body styles including the Packard Station Sedan. Clipper Custom Super Eights and Custom Eights were very close relatives to their respective Super models, distinguished outside by the lack of an eggcrate grille and small rear chrome trim moulding under the trunk lid on Supers. In 1949, a new Super Eight Deluxe was added to the line. This car had also the Custom Eight’s eggcrate grille, but not the rear trim.
The entire range of Packard’s motorcars was renamed for the 1951 model year (twenty-fourth series), when the Super Eight was renamed 300.
Get more information about: Packard Super Eight
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Packard Model: Super Eight
Price: $21,832 Mileage: 32,166 mi.
Read more about: Rev Up Your Engines! These 14 Stars Boast Jaw-Dropping, Priceless Classic Car Collections
10. **American Motors Corporation (AMC)**American Motors Corporation, often seen as the ultimate underdog of the American auto industry, consistently made the most of its unique position. Never the biggest player, AMC was for a significant period one of the most interesting and unconventional automakers. The company built cars that were often distinct and smartly targeted, ranging from compact commuters to genuinely quirky off-roaders, carving out a niche with vehicles that dared to be different.
Models like the Gremlin, Pacer, and Eagle stood out for their undeniable personality and distinctive designs, garnering a loyal, if sometimes bewildered, following. Beyond the quirky, AMC also built impressive performance machines. The AMX was a legitimate two-seater muscle car, packing a powerful 390 V8 and featuring a short wheelbase, while the Javelin brought serious pony car attitude with optional Go Package upgrades. Even the Rebel offered real street cred, showcasing AMC’s versatility and engineering prowess.
Despite its innovative spirit and compelling offerings, AMC eventually struggled to keep up with the relentless pace of the industry. Facing competition from bigger rivals with far deeper pockets, the brand simply couldn’t sustain its momentum financially. The Pacer, for all its roomy interior and wide stance, unfortunately became something of a pop culture punchline. Chrysler ultimately bought the company in 1987, primarily for its highly coveted Jeep division. The AMC name subsequently disappeared, but its legacy of risk-taking and originality lives on, particularly through models like the Grand Cherokee, which began its development under AMC leadership.
Read more about: Gone But Not Forgotten: 14 Beloved Cars That Vanished Unexpectedly from Production
11. **Eagle**Eagle emerged directly from Chrysler’s strategic acquisition of American Motors Corporation in 1987, envisioned to provide Jeep dealers with a complementary second line of passenger cars. The brand initially showed promise with the Premier, a vehicle that originated as an AMC/Renault design. This model was praised for its solid ride quality and a capable fuel-injected V6 engine, offering a sense of European sophistication within an American context.
Further adding to its early credibility was the Eagle Talon, a popular DSM (Diamond-Star Motors) twin of the iconic Mitsubishi Eclipse. This sport compact offered spirited performance and sharp styling, appealing to a younger, more performance-oriented demographic. However, as the 1990s wore on, Eagle struggled significantly to establish a clear and compelling brand identity for itself. The concept proved hard to sustain, and it was never quite clear who Eagle was truly speaking to.
By the late 1990s, the majority of Eagle’s lineup consisted of badge-engineered models, largely derived from Mitsubishi or other Chrysler platforms, offering little in the way of unique selling propositions. This lack of differentiation led to a steady decline in sales. Chrysler made the decision to shut down the entire Eagle operation after the 1998 model year. Its quiet exit barely registered, even among many Chrysler loyalists, leaving Eagle to remain more of a historical curiosity than a widely cherished memory today.
Read more about: The Unpredictable Eight: Teams Secretly Poised for an NFL Explosion This Season
12. **Fisker**Fisker Automotive, though its original incarnation was not on the scene for long, managed to leave a distinctive mark on the burgeoning electric vehicle landscape. The Karma sedan, launched with considerable fanfare in 2011, captivated onlookers with its strikingly sleek body, a luxurious interior that exuded sophistication, and an ambitious plug-in hybrid drivetrain. This system cleverly utilized a GM-sourced 2.0L turbo engine as an effective range extender, pushing the boundaries of what a green luxury car could be.
However, the journey from ambitious concept to reliable production proved fraught with challenges. The company faced a cascade of quality issues, perplexing software glitches, and persistent supplier troubles that quickly piled up. These operational hurdles severely hampered production and eroded consumer confidence in the pioneering electric car company. The inherent difficulties in scaling complex new automotive technologies became starkly apparent.
The final blow came when its crucial battery supplier, A123 Systems, filed for bankruptcy, an event that inevitably dragged Fisker Automotive under with it in 2013. The original Fisker operation became a poignant example of an EV startup that, despite promising so much, ultimately faltered due to a combination of technical woes and financial instability. Although the brand was later bought and revived as Karma Automotive, the original Fisker story remains a powerful lesson in the demanding realities of automotive innovation.
Car Model Information: 2018 Karma Revero Base
Name: Fisker Karma
Manufacturer: Fisker Automotive
Production: 2011–2012
Assembly: Uusikaupunki
Class: Full-size car,Luxury vehicle
BodyStyle: sedan (automobile)
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Related: ubl
Platform: Chevrolet Volt#Concept vehicle
Engine: GM Ecotec engine#LNF,Straight-four engine
Motor: 120 kW
Abbr: on
Battery: 20.1 kWh
Range: 230 mi
ElectricRange: 32 mi
Drivetrain: PHEV,Hybrid vehicle drivetrain#Series hybrid
Transmission: 1-speed
Charging: 3.3 kW (220 V 15 A as for UK) on-board charger on IEC Type 1 inlet (SAE-J1772-2009)
Wheelbase: 124.4 in
Length: 195.67 in
Width: 78.11 in
Height: 51.57 in
Weight: 5300 lb
Designer: Henrik Fisker
Successor: Karma Revero
Categories: All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with dead external links, Articles containing potentially dated statements from September 2016, Articles with dead external links from December 2019, Articles with permanently dead external links
Summary: The Fisker Karma is a luxury plug-in range-extended electric sports sedan produced by Fisker Automotive between 2011 and 2012. The cars were manufactured by Valmet Automotive in Finland.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rated the Karma’s combined city/highway fuel economy at 52 mpg‑US (4.5 L/100 km; 62 mpg‑imp) equivalent (MPG-e) in all-electric mode, and at 20 mpg‑US (12 L/100 km; 24 mpg‑imp) in gasoline-only mode. EPA’s official all-electric range is 32 mi (51 km). Due to the very small cabin interior volume, the EPA rated the Fisker Karma as a subcompact car.
The first deliveries took place in the U.S. in late July 2011, and deliveries to retail customers began in November 2011. Pricing in the U.S. started at US$102,000 for the base model (EcoStandard), US$110,000 for the intermediate EcoSport model and US$116,000 for the top model (the “Animal Free” EcoChic). Around 1,800 units were delivered in North America and Europe through December 2012. The U.S. was the leading market, with about 1,600 units sold.
Production was suspended in November 2012 when the sole battery supplier to Fisker Automotive, A123 Systems, filed for bankruptcy following two battery recalls. Fisker Automotive was unable to carry on production of the Fisker Karma in the absence of its sole battery supplier, with about 2,450 Karmas built since 2011.
After furloughing its US workers in late March 2013, Fisker Automotive filed for bankruptcy in November 2013, after the United States Department of Energy auctioned its debt and sold it to Hybrid Technology LLC for US$25 million.
Following the sale of some of the assets of the company, the designs, rights to a plug-hybrid powertrain and a manufacturing facility in Delaware to the Chinese company Wanxiang, the new owners re-commenced production in September 2016 under the brand name Karma Automotive.
After several announcements by the Wanxiang Group to reintroduce an upgraded version of the Fisker Karma, the car was renamed the Karma Revero and Karma Automotive started taking orders in September 2016.
Get more information about: Fisker Karma
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Fisker Model: Karma
Price: $39,998 Mileage: 44,463 mi.
Read more about: Gone But Not Forgotten: 14 Beloved Cars That Vanished Unexpectedly from Production
13. **Duesenberg**Duesenberg was never designed to be a mass-market brand; instead, it occupied the rarefied air of ultra-luxury. Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Duesenberg automobiles represented the pinnacle of American performance and elegance, handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail. The iconic Model J, introduced in 1928, was an engineering marvel for its time, featuring a potent straight-eight engine that produced over 265 horsepower – an astonishing figure for the era. These magnificent vehicles were often fitted with bespoke bodies built by legendary coachbuilders such as Murphy and LeBaron, ensuring each car was a unique work of art.
However, the sheer extravagance and astronomical cost of Duesenberg vehicles made them incredibly susceptible to economic downturns. The Great Depression, which began shortly after the Model J’s introduction, utterly crushed the demand for ultra-luxury cars, leaving the company with a rapidly dwindling customer base. Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg, the parent company, found itself unable to weather the severe financial storm and ultimately collapsed in 1937.
The Duesenberg name, synonymous with unparalleled luxury and engineering excellence, never officially came back as an automobile manufacturer, despite various attempts to revive the marque over the decades. Today, the original Duesenbergs are revered as irreplaceable museum pieces and command astronomical prices among collectors, forever tied to a bygone economic era of unprecedented opulence and craftsmanship. Their story is a stark reminder of how even the most exquisite creations can be undone by forces beyond their control.
Car Model Information: 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE 4MOTION
Name: Sfn
Caption: 1930 Duesenberg J Murphy Torpedo Convertible
Manufacturer: Duesenberg
Aka: Duesenberg J,Duesenberg SJ (supercharged),Duesenberg SSJ (short-wheelbase supercharged)
Production: 1928–1937,481 produced (445 Model J, 36 Model SJ)
Assembly: Indianapolis,Indiana,United States
Designer: Gordon Buehrig
Class: Full-size car,Luxury vehicle
BodyStyle: Coachbuilt to owner’s preference
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout#Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: 420 cuin
Abbr: on
Disp: Sfn
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: {{convert,142.5,in,mm,1,abbr=on,disp=flip
Predecessor: Duesenberg Model A
Sp: us
Categories: 1930s cars, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from December 2013, Articles with unsourced statements from June 2012
Summary: The Duesenberg Model J is a luxury automobile made by Duesenberg exclusively in 1928 and offered for ten subsequent years. Intended to compete with the most luxurious and powerful cars in the world, it was introduced in 1928, the year before the stock market crash that led to the Great Depression. Duesenberg Motors Company went bankrupt in 1937.
Get more information about: Duesenberg Model J
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Duesenberg Model: Model J
Price: $21,832 Mileage: 32,166 mi.
Read more about: The Unseen Value: 9 Classic Cars That Demand Storage Over the Open Road for True Enthusiasts
14. **Rambler**Rambler, in many ways, was American Motors Corporation (AMC) before AMC truly found its distinct identity, serving as a foundational brand for what would become a formidable underdog. Compact and affordably priced, it presented a sensible and much-needed counterpoint to the oversized, flamboyant American cars that dominated the roads in the 1950s. This commitment to practicality resonated deeply with working families across the country, providing dependable transportation without unnecessary flash or extravagance. Rambler vehicles often appeared as the quiet, reliable workhorse in the background of everyday American life.
The Rambler American, introduced in 1958, quickly garnered attention for its straightforward design and robust construction. These models typically ran reliable inline-six engines and featured clean, upright styling that emphasized functionality over ostentation. They proved particularly successful in the early 1960s economy market, appealing to buyers who prioritized efficiency and ease of ownership during a time of shifting economic realities.
By the late 1960s, American Motors began a strategic shift, phasing out the Rambler nameplate to concentrate on a more performance-oriented and youth-focused branding strategy. Newer models like the Hornet and Matador were introduced to replace the aging Rambler line. By 1969, the Rambler badge had quietly disappeared from new car showrooms. While it was never flashy, the Rambler consistently got the job done, leaving a lasting influence on AMC’s design and engineering DNA, and continuing to evoke nostalgic memories for those who remember its unassuming reliability.
Read more about: Dare to Tread? Exploring the World’s 14 Most Perilous Hiking Trails
Each of these brands, from the audacious Hummer to the dignified Duesenberg, carved out its own unique niche in the rich tapestry of American automotive history. While their time in the spotlight may have ended, their legacies endure—living on in the passionate stories of enthusiasts, the quiet pride of collectors, and the collective memory of a nation that continues to be defined by the cars it once drove. These vanished icons offer invaluable insights into the ever-changing landscape of an industry that, even as it looks to the future, is forever shaped by its past.
