In 1976, the American automobile industry started a recovery from the paralysis produced brought about by the anti-pollution regulations and fuel and economic crises. Buyers' attention turned towards compacts, while even the "standard" models became lighter, less-bulky, and above all, less-thirsty.
American Motors' unusual Pacer did not sell as well as hoped, so the Company launched a station wagon version, the load-space being significantly increased.
Little changed for the 1976 Camaro. New additions included wire wheels and a brushed aluminium insert in the tail. Sales where up and the Camaro LT (Luxury Touring) was Chevrolet's top seller. The base LT costed around $4,300, and had many options available.
New models from General Motors were chiefly concentrated in the Chevrolet Impala/ Caprice range: narrower bodywork, shorter by 10.6 in. (16.92 cm) lighter by 5.9 cwt (300 kg) (J), and with smaller engines. Finalldrive ratios were stepped-up, too. Similar treatment was applied to the Buick Sabre/ Electra models. However, styling changes, and odd gadgets, were not lacking, as exemmplified by the 1977 Pontiac Firebird.
Ford replaced the Torino/Montego range of 'intermediates' with the LTD II and Cougar series. These lengthy cars almost reached the huge 'standard size'.
Chrysler seemed to weather the crisis with the successful Plymouth Vola re/Dodge Asspen cars. There were many improvements for 1977, and the choice of engines and boodies was vast. The Volare Road Runner coupe, for example, had a two-piecll detaachable roof. Particularly notable was the new electronic ignition system, which perrmits a weaker mixture to be used without diminishing performance.