Quote:
Originally Posted by
GQgeek 
^^not true. Ford makes good compacts in Europe. They just don't do it in the US, nor are they allowed to import them due to union contracts.

You are correct. I meant in the US market. I think the reason we don't see those cars here has much to do with federalizing those models. If it is truly the auto union that keeps those cars out, then the US auto manufacturers are doomed to fail due to the protectionist powers of the Union. Generally the big three thinks that the US market is not as sophisticated when it comes to the compact car. The Ford Focus of Europe is a monster of a small car; however, to bring that model to the US market, they would have to charge BMW 3 series prices. No one will pay that for a small Ford.
GM was just starting to get it together with Opel to bring some better small cars to the US, but then everything went to hell.
Still, the OP wonders about whether or not taking a job with Chrysler is a worhtwhile risk. The US and Canadian markets are inextricably linked. We have similar offereings from the big three. Sadly in the current mess Chrysler's sales are off more than any of the other car companies.
The auto industry is tough; however, if one is young and feels stuck in a safe/stable government job then jumping into the fire of business is a balsy move. Who knows if Chrysler will go tits up? I think it is less likely, but that is my opinion.