Final answer:
In the past, American cars were typically larger, heavier, and had bigger engines compared to Japanese cars, which were smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient. Globalization and competition with foreign manufacturers influenced American car makers to produce more fuel-efficient and smaller vehicles over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the past, there were several key differences between American and Japanese cars. American cars were generally larger, heavier, and had bigger engines. They were designed with the view of abundant space and long-distance travel on highways common in the U.S.
On the other hand, Japanese cars, such as the 1970s-era Honda Civic, were typically smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient. This was due to the more compact urban environments in Japan and the country's emphasis on fuel efficiency.
Globalization and competitive pressures greatly influenced auto manufacturing, with European and East Asian carmakers, notably Japan, challenging the traditional American car industry's dominance. This pressure led to innovations and improvements in American car production. Over time, American car manufacturers started producing cars that were more fuel-efficient and smaller, similar to Japanese cars, to provide variety and choice for consumers.
Learn more about American versus Japanese Cars