There were restrictions. From the early 1980s to 1994, Japan had a "voluntary export restriction" on their autos (it was "voluntary" in order to not violate GATT). This was begged for by the big three so they could get their act together when japanese autos took off in the U.S. due to the oil crisis of the 70s. The big three have had 20+ years to catch up. My pity has long since expired.