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Tokyo Motor Show History
Previous Page The 16th Tokyo Motor Show (1969 . 10/24 - 11/6)
Poster
The 16th Tokyo Motor Show Poster

The only changes at this show were the automakers positive attitude toward dream cars and commuters, and the auto industry s new dynamism approaching the 1970s, which was revealed in "space" motifs reflecting the Apollo 11 s arrival on the moon.

Toyota, pursuing ultimate speed and safety, announced three types of advanced models: elegant dream car EX-III, a long-distance high-speed EX-I that seemed feasible in the near future, and an intra-city commuter EX-II. Nissan challenged with one or two idea cars pursuing aerodynamic efficiency. Mitsubishi exhibited a commuter car for reference. Although these were dream cars, or "styles and models aimed at new ideals of the car," they attracted many enthusiasts attention. They also interested H.I.H. Prince Takamatsu, the patron of the show.

One thing to notice this year was the opening of the Tomei Expressway and most of the Chuo Expressway. Strongly influenced by the expressways and motor sports, Japanese passenger cars were rapidly improving their performance to catch up with advanced U.S. and European cars. At this show, there were many sports cars, a manifestaion of this trend. The midship type Bellett MX 1600 was exhibited by Isuzu, the mini racing machine by Suzuki, and the rotary coupeR100 with racing specifications by Mazda. The Honda 1300 Coupe 7 and the Mitsubishi Colt Formula FIIB were also noticeable. Nissan set up a sports corner exhibiting the R 382, the Japan GP winner, which showed the companys zeal toward motor sports. Among new models, the Mitsubishi Colt Gallant, especially the Gallant GTX-1 (GTO s base model) to be sold in 1970 was most popular. Nissan only exhibited "Z" (an export model). Most show vehicles had powered-up engines suitable for the high speed age. Most models had been slightly revised to meet safety standards upgraded in April.

The Safety Science Center was again placed in the show hall. Its budget was doubled to ¥30,000,000 from ¥14,000,000 for the previous show. JMIF asked for safety slogans to respond to traffic and recall problems. Slogans adopted were: (1)Check mind and ears before driving; (2)A safe car is the product of builders and a user; and (3)Makers quality control will make safety.

Admission tickets with door prizes which started at the 6th Motor Show, were discontinued on the advice of the Fair Trade Commission. Visitors numbered 1,523,500, an all-time record, showing deeply rooted popularity.
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