U.S. Auto Sales Best in 6 Years

The U.S. auto industry reported its best early February sales in six years today and topped 1984’s strong pace by 2.3%.

Chrysler Corp. led the Big Three with a year-to-year sales gain of 18.5% during the Feb. 1- 10 reporting period.

The industry leader, General Motors Corp., posted a 5.4% gain compared with last year but remained below its traditional market share.

Ford Motor Co. sales were down 11.1% contrasted with last year. Analysts attributed the drop to unusually large Ford sales last year when the No. 2 auto maker was offering incentives.

American Honda Motor co. Inc.-- emerging as the nation’s No. 4 car maker-- sold more of its Ohio made Accords than the combined domestic sales of American Motors Corp. and Volkswagen of America Inc.

“These numbers appear strong although the car makers are benefiting some from sales incentives,” said David Bloom, an auto industry analyst with First Boston Corp. in New York. “The market isn’t totally selling on its own demand.”

Sales of Honda’s U.S.- made cars were up 97% while AMC’s were down 38.4% and VW’s were down 24.3%.