Sign in Subscribe
Transportation equipment industry

Automakers Report Strong Sales in 1998

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Automakers in the United States, Europe, and Japan reported increased sales of cars and light trucks in 1998, driven by a strong economy in the US and Europe. Ford Motor Co. saw a 7 percent increase in sales for December and a 2 percent rise for the year, its best since 1978. DaimlerChrysler also had its best year ever, with a 9 percent increase over 1997. European automakers such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volkswagen reported significant sales gains, with Mercedes-Benz setting a record for the year with a 39 percent increase.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ford Motor Co. reported a 7 percent increase in sales for December and a 2 percent rise for the year, its best since 1978.
  • DaimlerChrysler had its best year ever, with a 9 percent increase over 1997, and 7 percent increase in sales for December.
  • Mercedes-Benz set a record for the year with a 39 percent increase in sales, making it the automaker's best year yet.
  • Volkswagen's sales for the year were up 59 percent, its best year since 1981.
  • General Motors Corp., the world's largest automaker, planned to release its figures on Wednesday.
  • Isuzu Motor Corp. reported a 31.6 percent increase in December sales and an 11.3 percent rise for 1998.
  • Mazda Motor Corp. had a 13.5 percent increase in December sales and an 8.4 percent increase for 1998.
  • Mitsubishi Motor Corp. had a 16.7 percent rise in December sales, but a slight decline in sales for the whole year.
  • Nissan Motor Co Ltd reported an 11.9 percent gain in December sales, but a 14.7 percent decline in sales for the year.

Statistics:

  • Ford Motor Co. reported a 7% increase in sales for December and a 2% rise for the year.
  • DaimlerChrysler had a 9% increase over 1997 and a 7% increase in sales for December.
  • Mercedes-Benz had a 39% increase in sales for the year, its best year yet.
  • Volkswagen's sales for the year were up 59%, its best year since 1981.
  • Isuzu Motor Corp. saw a 31.6% increase in December sales and an 11.3% rise for 1998.
  • Mazda Motor Corp. had a 13.5% increase in December sales and an 8.4% increase for 1998.
  • Mitsubishi Motor Corp. had a 16.7% rise in December sales, but a slight decline in sales for the whole year.
  • Nissan Motor Co Ltd reported a 14.7% decline in sales for the year.

Sources:

  • XINHUA
  • COMTEX (http://www.comtexnews.com)

Read more