When was the rise and decline of the American automobile in correlation to the American economy?

Not at all. In 2009, the US exported “Passenger cars … $27.5 billion” even though that number was down quite a bit. Top US Imports and Exports.

I don’t think you can say the American car industry has truly fallen, I mean a good look at Ford would probably be a good example of doing okay in foreign countries (especially those in Europe).

Thanks, I guess what I meant to ask was when did it start, when did it peak, when did it just get mixed up with other makers, like Japan, Germany, and etc. Is it still tops in the world?

Well, mid last year GM (blech) reclaimed the crown of No. 1 global car company knocking of usurping Toyota. Since then, I’m not sure.

What the hell is an “American” car? 100% assembled in the US? !00% parts made in the US? 50% each? How about owned by an 100% American owner?

When Chrysler was owned by Daimler, did it still make American cars?

Doesn’t Ford own Volvo and Jaguar? Are Volvo and Jaguar American cars now? Toyota Camrys are made (or is it only assembled) in Tennessee, I think. Are they American cars?

When you buy one of those Ikea beds and you assemble it in your bedroom, does that mean you made it?

I think automobiles rise and fall in correlation with the overall economy. I think cars are coming back and sales are strengthening. I hope that means the rest of the economy will soon follow. I don’t give a shit if it’s American or Japanese or Korean or Arturian cars.