1969; At Frankfurt, Mercedes-Benz reveals its C-111 research car, a mid-engined gullwing sports car powered by a three-rotor Wankel.(50th Anniversary countdown)

The auto industry is under pressure. Bills are introduced in the California Assembly and the U.S. Senate to ban the sale of all vehicles using internal combustion engines after 1978.

Federal officials propose an airbag standard to take effect in 1972, though highway administrator Frank Turner admits seatbelts have been proven lifesavers.

Ford unveils two new models: the Maverick, with a sub-$2,000 price to battle inexpensive imports, and the Torino Talladega, aimed at NASCAR loyalists. Ford also offers "anti-skid brakes'' on the Lincoln Continental Mk III and the Ford Thunderbird as a $260 option. It finds few takers.

The Maverick is followed by AMC's Hornet. AMC also makes news by acquiring Kaiser-Jeep. General Motors puts the Corvair to rest, Ford retires the Falcon, and AMC has built its last Rambler.

Ex-racer John Fitch demonstrates his "inertial barrier'' by crashing cars into a series of sand-filled barrels. Similar barriers will become ubiquitous on our highways.

Datsun shows its 240Z at the San Francisco import auto show, where the Rover 3500S also stars. Ferrari shows a Daytona convertible at Paris. At Frankfurt, Porsche shows its new 914. Mazda announces it will sell the rotary-engined R-100 coupe next year.

Fiat buys half of Ferrari-road-car operations-leaving Enzo in charge of racing. Ford, once a Ferrari suitor, announces a pact with Ghia and De Tomaso.