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Old 11 Jun 2010, 04:09 (Ref:2708864)   #1
johnh875
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Join Date: May 2004
Australia
Victoria
Posts: 2,540
johnh875 should be qualifying in the top 10 on the grid
Australian cars imported to the UK

I thought I would start a thread to see if any members have memories or thoughts on these? I have a rough knowledge of Ford, Chrysler and Mitsubishi exporting cars to the UK, and there seems to be a common theme of high prices, very limited distribution and ultimately low sales.

The Chrysler case is particularly interesting as I understand the cars were intended to be a replacement for the Humber Super Snipe - and while it is a separate topic and don't know a lot about them, I find the Humber V8 one of those fascinating automotive blind alleys.

More recently there was the Verde Tempest (aka lpg-powered ute), Mitsubishi Diamante, and I remember seeing an AC that was intended to use the 4.0L lpg 6cyl engine - were any ever made? There was also a company intending to import tuned 650+ hp FPV Typhoons a couple of years ago, but that fell through (youtube link).

Some reference info:
http://www.aus-ford-uk.co.uk/index.html
http://www.rootes-chrysler.co.uk/aussie-chry.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bEe-rXaZ_w

Looking at the 1960s/1970s major manufacturer activities in particular, does anyone have som thoughts on why it didn't work? Was it too much of a culture shock to change from a Humber to a Chrysler? Cars too downmarket for the price point, just plain too big, etc?

Also I am sure I have seen a picture of a Chrysler Charger in the UK but can't find it now, can anyone help?
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