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Known by its nickname,"Topolino",
the small Fiat 500 was very popular in Italy after its completion
in 1936. Considered technologically advanced for its time, this
500cc-class car provided ample seating even though it had a small
body. It was highly praised for its originality. The Fiat surprisingly
maintained the same four-wheel, hydraulic brake system and sophisticated
mechanisms of larger models. However, its unique design set it apart
from the other vehicles, which were just scaled-down versions of
larger cars. |
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Andre Citroen, which had achieved
great success during the 1920s with the 5CV, introduced the front-wheel-drive
7CV model in 1934. The most successful model of the line, the 11B was added slightly
later. It adopted an unprecedented wide, monocoque body with a front-wheel independent-suspension
design made possible by employing a front-wheel-drive system. This gave the body
a low center of gravity, and consequently the Citroen's road-holding ability surpassed
even that of the sports cars of the time. Its smooth ride and stability later
became the trademark of French cars. |
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Entering the 1930s, the British
family car was no more advanced than other European cars. The Morris Eight had
gone unchanged from the Austin Seven era with its separate frame and rigid axle.
Cars in the domestic market were conservatively designed because high speeds
were unnecessary. Customers rejected mechanisms which were too complex since
maintenance was often entrusted to the owners. The Morris Eight Series focused
on practicality and affordability. |
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In Germany, the
people’s car took the form of Hitler’s Volkswagen, which
literally meant "people's car "Its design complete with
a strong, platform chassis, four-whreel independent-suspension system,
air-cooled horiyontally opposed, four-cylinder engine, and an RR
drive system, was worthy of Ferdinand Porsche’s attention.
Sales were conducted using fixed installment payments, but until
the end of World War II, almost no vehicles were provided to the
public. |
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