The Art of American Car Design: The Profession and Personalities : "Not Simple Like Simon"

Rating:
Summary: Excellent insight into the nuances of GM design
Review: This book rewards repeated reading. The interviews with GM designers such as Bill Mitchell and Bill Porter are encrusted with myriad design nuggets. In particular, Armi's analysis of Bill Porter's work, and the interview with this senior GM designer show a depth of understanding not normally associated with auto design. Porter's language shows the way towards are more mature and reasoned approach to the art of car design and the methods and techniques to achieve the desired end. Anyone fascinated with the sludge years (the early to mid eighties) at GM will also come away enlightened. Of course, to enjoy this book, a professional interest in car design is a help, but especially for students, this book is a must.

Rating:
Summary: Not quite everything you want to know about car design.
Review: This book should have been better. Though the author doesn't seem to know it, his perspective is overly slanted to GM/ Harley Earl mindset. The writing itself will only hokd the interest of the most dedicated, and GM fixated readers. If you're looking for solid info on Ford designtriumphs--the '60 Lincoln Continental/ or Mark II, Mustangs, the late 60's T-Birds, you'll be disappointed. Chrysler is similarly glanced over. The interviews are good, but tighter editing would have been appreciated.