Many books provide a basic catalog of American automobiles from ca. 1900 to 2000. This volume takes a very different approach: in addition to detailing engineering and styling advances, it also presents the broad social and economic environment and demonstrates how and why the automobile has evolved and thrived so strongly throughout the United States.

Cars may be a universal product, but that's not to say that they are the same everywhere. Viewed from afar, American cars (and trucks) look too big, have engines that are too large, and are extravagant for solo commuting. Considering the American continent's vast extent, its wide, open roads, readily available parking and low energy prices, it is understandable why American automobiles differ in design, engineering, and size from those found elsewhere in the world. Beginning with the automobile's early days and Henry Ford's invention of the assembly line and continuing until modern times, this intriguing, richly illustrated volume traces the entire history of American automobiles. Whether luxury-market or average-family models, the American car is a dream possession and cult object famous and desired throughout the world.