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The '53 'vette wasn't a barn-burner. The engine was a straight six out of a truck. The styling was kind of boring. Fiberglass was a peculiar thing.

It was, therefore, by no means certain the 'vette would survive, let alone become a hit.

WI GM had cancelled it in '54 or '55?

It seems likely Ford still introduces the T-bird; without the 'vette, would Ford have pressed so hard to make it a success?

Might Ford actually have moved the T-bird up-market without the 'vette, selling it as a Merc, instead? And added a lower-priced 4-seater as a Ford in '63 or so (as OTL)?

Would having no 'vette have hurt Chevy in the late '50s & early '60s?

Would GM have answered the T-bird with an improved Skylark? Or shortened 2-seater derived from the Skylark?

I'd guess this means the Camaro & Firebird end up having better performance, as the corporate image leaders. I'd also guess this means the Fiero is a performer, not a commuter.

Any other thoughts?
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