Today's US automotive industry consists of less than 20 automakers, most of which are brands owned by the Detroit 3. Things were quite different 100 years ago, when America was home to more than 1,000 manufacturers.
Pierce Arrow, Auburn, Duesenberg, Peerless and Stutz are among the iconic companies that folded before World War II, but the era also saw the end of GM's "Companion Make" program, which included LaSalle, Viking or Oakland. The latter was axed in 1931, four years after leading to the birth of Pontiac.
Oakland automobiles are a rare sight nowadays, as most of them were either scrapped or rusted away in barns. But at least one 1927 roaster is still alive and kicking thanks to Brian Bent. An enthusiast who says the wooden-wheeled vehicle fits him perfectly despite missing the technology and gadgets found in modern cars.
The 1927 Oakland is far from being a beautiful car in terms of styling, but the fact that Brian prefers this Pontiac-powered roadster to any 21st century wagon when it comes to driving down to beach makes our petrol-pumping hearts beat a lot faster.
Ask Ciprian about cars and he'll reveal an obsession with classics and an annoyance with modern design cues. Read his articles and you'll understand why his ideal SUV is the 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. Full profile
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