American [19] (United States) - AllCarIndex

American Motors Corporation was an automobile manufacturer based in Plainfield, New Jersey, operating from 1916 to 1924. The company was known for producing the American, a standard six-cylinder car that was marketed under various names, including the American Six and the American Balanced Six. The early models were equipped with a Rutenber engine, which was later replaced in 1920 by a more powerful engine designed by Herschell-Spillman.

During its operational years, American Motors emphasized quality in its vehicles, with Louis Chevrolet serving as the chief engineer. The company promoted a slogan, "Miles of Smiles," and ensured that all cars sold bore a badge inscribed with "OK, Chevrolet," indicating they had passed Chevrolet's standards. In 1920, production peaked at approximately 1,500 cars.

In the same year, American-Southern Motors Corporation was established in Greensboro, North Carolina, with the intention of producing the American for a southern market. This subsidiary also aimed to manufacture a luxury sports car named the Vaughn, although only one prototype was completed before the project was abandoned in 1921. In 1923, American Motors merged with Bessemer Truck Company, also based in Plainfield, to form Bessemer-American Motor Corporation, with American Motors continuing as the passenger car division. However, production of the American ceased early in 1924.