<VV> Cost Differences (long) / economic external forces

[Louis C. Armer, Jr.]

Okay Ned, Putting aside the obsession of the automakers to build
in improvements ( and of course raise prices ) during the years of
a models planned run, one also has to consider the external economic
forces which affected all Automakers then and now. Economically GM
certainly needed to have a long run with the original Corvair design and I
am sure they planned at least 3 or 4 years in advance when determining
the changes to be made in the LM evolution of the Corvair. Unit body design
was very new in the late 50's and that concept was evolving during the design
of the LM chassis and body. Assembley line productuion didn't just figure out
a way for changing cage nuts on Corvairs but strived to make all GM models
assembley cheaper, more automated, less labor extensive and produce strength
with less weight. All US automakers improved rust prevention, lightened 
rolled metal
products, introduced plastics wherever possible and introduced expensive luxury
items in the lower priced end of their Marques. So this is another tangent 
in this
thread you have introduced.

Chuck Armer


Corvair Atlanta, BOD
CORSA MEMBER
CORSA Tri-Membership Chairman
http://carmerjr.home.mindspring.com/