Stuff You Should Know Selects: SYSK Live: Back When Ford Pintos Were Flaming Deathtraps
Jun 17, 2023
Dive into the chaotic world of the Ford Pinto, a car infamous for its safety issues during the 70s. Discover how Lee Iacocca's legacy shaped the automotive landscape, along with a humorous look at the Pinto's ignoble history. The impact of Ralph Nader's consumer advocacy and a revealing 'Pinto Madness' article shed light on corporate ethics—or lack thereof. With playful banter and nostalgia, explore how media scrutiny and public perception transformed the auto industry. It's a ride full of laughs and critical insights into a fiery scandal!
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Iacocca and the Mustang
- Lee Iacocca, a "young turk" at Ford, designed the Mustang.
- This gave him credibility, eventually leading to his rise within the company.
The Subcompact Challenge
- Iacocca recognized the American auto industry's failure in the subcompact market.
- He pointed to the Volkswagen Beetle and Toyota Corolla as key competitors.
Project Phoenix and the Pinto
- Lee Iacocca, upon taking charge at Ford, initiated "Project Phoenix" to develop a subcompact car.
- The project aimed for a 24-month turnaround, a weight under 2,000 pounds, and a price under $2,000.