Interesting Factoids about Lee Iacocca
He saved Chrysler and changed the automotive world with his influence and
innovative zeal and that’s why we know the name Lee Iacocca here at Painters
Collision Centers very well. Automobile industry executive, national celebrity
and best-selling author Lee Iacocca is one of America’s best known and
admired businessmen, so here are some facts about the man, his life and his
achievements.
Lido Anthony Iacocca was born on October 15, 1924, in Allentown,
Pennsylvania. His parents, Nicola Iacocca, an entrepreneur and restaurant
owner, and Antoinette Perrotto immigrated to the United States from Italy. He
graduated an engineering degree from Lehigh University and a master’s degree
from Princeton University.
Iacocca began working as an engineer at Ford Motor Company in 1946. While
there, the business icon introduced the affordable and stylish Mustang sports
car to the market in 1964. Iacocca served as president from 1970 until he was
fired in 1978. The following year, he became CEO of the Chrysler Corp., which
was on the verge of bankruptcy.
Iacocca helped turn the corporation around and in 1984 Chrysler made a
record $2.4 billion. This success helped Iacocca become a national celebrity. As
a spokesperson in television ads, he promised anyone who test drove a
Chrysler $50 if they purchased a competitor’s vehicle. He retired in 1992.
Factoids about Iacocca:
Iacocca starred in Chrysler television commercials that featured the
famous line, “If you can find a better car, buy it.”
He was featured on the cover of Time magazine three times.
In the mid-1980s, there was talk of Iacocca running for the U.S.
presidency.
Two books written by Iacocca, the 1984
autobiography Iacocca and Talking Straight (1988), became best-sellers.
President Ronald Reagan asked Iacocca to help coordinate fundraising
efforts for the restoration of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
In the mid-1980s, Iacocca was described as “the living embodiment of
the American dream” by Reader’s Digest.
In 2005, Iacocca appeared in Chrysler ads with Jason Alexander and
Snoop Dogg.
The Iacocca Family Foundation has funded more than $40 million in
research projects.
About Painters Collision Centers
Today’s vehicles are essentially large computers on wheels, so you need a
collision repair company with the right tools, equipment, and training to
diagnose and fix these sophisticated machines at a high level. At Painters
Collision Centers, with two locations in Chandler and Queen Creek, AZ, we
stress quality, transparency, and complete accountability. People praise us
for being thorough and providing over-the-top customer service on every
repair. When you hire us at Painters Collision Centers, you tap into our 35
years of cumulative experience in the collision repair industry. Owners Jim
and Kelly Huard aren’t just in it to win it. They’re in it to be the best!
Sources: CNN, notablebiographies.com and biography.com