GENERAL MOTORS CORP
10-K, 1997-03-20
MOTOR VEHICLES & PASSENGER CAR BODIES
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<PAGE>   1
 
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                UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                           WASHINGTON, DC 20549-1004
 
                                   FORM 10-K
 
 X  ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
                     FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
                                       OR
 
 ___  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
      1934
 
        FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM                TO
 
                          COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 1-143
 
                           GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION
             (EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                   <C>
                STATE OF DELAWARE                                         38-0572515
         (STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF                               (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
          INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)                             IDENTIFICATION NO.)
    100 RENAISSANCE CENTER, DETROIT, MICHIGAN                             48243-7301
   3044 WEST GRAND BOULEVARD, DETROIT, MICHIGAN                           48202-3091
     (ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)                             (ZIP CODE)
</TABLE>
 
       REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE (313) 556-5000
 
          SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OF THE ACT:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    NAME OF EACH EXCHANGE
                    TITLE OF EACH CLASS                              ON WHICH REGISTERED
                    -------------------                             ---------------------
<S>                                                             <C>
COMMON, $1 2/3 PAR VALUE (743,213,618 SHARES OUTSTANDING AS
  OF FEBRUARY 28, 1997).....................................    NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC.
CLASS H COMMON, $0.10 PAR VALUE (100,831,170 SHARES
  OUTSTANDING AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1997.......................    NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC.
PREFERENCE, $0.10 PAR VALUE, SERIES B 9 1/8% DEPOSITARY
  SHARES, STATED VALUE $25 PER SHARE, DIVIDENDS CUMULATIVE
  (20,020,586 DEPOSITARY SHARES OUTSTANDING AS OF FEBRUARY
  28, 1997).................................................    NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC.
PREFERENCE, $0.10 PAR VALUE, SERIES D 7.92% DEPOSITARY
  SHARES, STATED VALUE $25 PER SHARE, DIVIDENDS CUMULATIVE
  (6,069,909 DEPOSITARY SHARES OUTSTANDING AS OF FEBRUARY
  28, 1997).................................................    NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC.
PREFERENCE, $0.10 PAR VALUE, SERIES G 9.12% DEPOSITARY
  SHARES, STATED VALUE $25 PER SHARE, DIVIDENDS CUMULATIVE
  (10,079,899 DEPOSITARY SHARES OUTSTANDING AS OF FEBRUARY
  28, 1997).................................................    NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, INC.
</TABLE>
 
NOTE: THE $1 2/3 PAR VALUE COMMON STOCK OF THE REGISTRANT IS ALSO LISTED FOR
TRADING ON:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                         <C>
CHICAGO STOCK EXCHANGE, INC. ...........................    CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
PACIFIC STOCK EXCHANGE, INC. ...........................    SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
PHILADELPHIA STOCK EXCHANGE, INC. ......................    PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
MONTREAL STOCK EXCHANGE.................................    MONTREAL, QUEBEC, CANADA
TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE..................................    TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA
BORSE FRANKFURT AM MAIN.................................    FRANKFORT ON THE MAIN, GERMANY
BORSE DUSSELDORF........................................    DUSSELDORF, GERMANY
BOURSE DE BRUXELLES.....................................    BRUSSELS, BELGIUM
COURTIERS EN VALEURS MOBILIERES.........................    PARIS, FRANCE
THE LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE...............................    LONDON, ENGLAND
</TABLE>
 
     INDICATE BY CHECK MARK WHETHER THE REGISTRANT (1) HAS FILED ALL REPORTS
REQUIRED TO BE FILED BY SECTION 13 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 DURING
THE PRECEDING 12 MONTHS, AND (2) HAS BEEN SUBJECT TO SUCH FILING REQUIREMENTS
FOR THE PAST 90 DAYS. YES  X .  NO  ___ .
 
     INDICATE BY CHECK MARK IF DISCLOSURE OF DELINQUENT FILERS PURSUANT TO ITEM
405 OF REGULATION S-K IS NOT CONTAINED HEREIN, AND WILL NOT BE CONTAINED, TO THE
BEST OF REGISTRANT'S KNOWLEDGE, IN DEFINITIVE PROXY OR INFORMATION STATEMENTS
INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN PART III OF THIS FORM 10-K OR ANY AMENDMENT TO THIS
FORM 10-K. ( )
 
     THE AGGREGATE MARKET VALUE (BASED UPON THE AVERAGE OF THE HIGHEST AND
LOWEST SALES PRICES ON THE COMPOSITE TAPE ON FEBRUARY 28, 1997) OF GENERAL
MOTORS CORPORATION $1 2/3 PAR VALUE, CLASS H COMMON STOCKS HELD BY NONAFFILIATES
ON FEBRUARY 28, 1997 WAS APPROXIMATELY $42.7 BILLION AND $5.9 BILLION,
RESPECTIVELY.
 
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                PART AND ITEM NUMBER OF FORM 10-K
                          DOCUMENT                                   INTO WHICH INCORPORATED
                          --------                              ---------------------------------
<S>                                                             <C>
GENERAL MOTORS NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS AND
  PROXY STATEMENT FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS TO
  BE HELD MAY 23, 1997......................................      PART III, ITEMS 10 THROUGH 13
</TABLE>
 
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<PAGE>   2
 
                                     PART I
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                                THE CORPORATION
 
     General Motors Corporation, incorporated in 1916 under the laws of the
State of Delaware, is hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "Registrant" or
the "Corporation" and, together with its subsidiaries, is hereinafter sometimes
referred to as "General Motors" or "GM."
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
 
GENERAL
 
     The following information is incorporated herein by reference to the
indicated pages in Part II:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ITEM                                                                PAGE
- ----                                                                ----
<S>                                                             <C>
Wholesale Sales.............................................    II-48 and 50
Employment and Payrolls.....................................       II-68
Note 22 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
  (Segment Reporting).......................................       II-37
</TABLE>
 
     While the major portion of General Motors' operations is derived from the
automotive products industry segment, General Motors also has a financing and
insurance industry segment and produces products and provides services in other
industry segments. The automotive products segment consists of the design,
manufacture, assembly, and sale of automobiles, trucks and related parts and
accessories. The financing and insurance operations, primarily General Motors
Acceptance Corporation (GMAC), assist in the merchandising of General Motors'
products as well as other products. GMAC offers financial services and certain
types of insurance to dealers and customers. In addition, GMAC is engaged in
mortgage banking services. The other products segment consists of satellite
construction, ownership and operation, communications services, ground
equipment, direct-to-home satellite television entertainment services, missile
systems, command and control systems, torpedoes and sonar systems,
electro-optical systems, airborne radar and communication systems, military
training and simulation systems, air traffic control systems, information
systems, and guidance and control systems; as well as the design, development,
and manufacture of locomotives.
 
     Substantially all of the products in the automotive segment are marketed
through retail dealers and through distributors and jobbers in the United
States, Canada, and Mexico, and through distributors and dealers overseas. At
December 31, 1996, there were approximately 8,300 General Motors vehicle dealers
in the United States, 1,000 in Canada and Mexico, and approximately 5,500
outlets overseas.
 
BACKLOG OF ORDERS
 
     Shipments of General Motors' automotive products are made as promptly as
possible after receipt of firm sales orders; therefore, no significant backlog
of unfilled orders accumulates. Hughes Electronics Corporation had a $15.1
billion and $14.9 billion backlog of defense and commercial contracts at the end
of 1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
RAW MATERIALS AND SERVICES
 
     General Motors purchases materials, parts, supplies, freight
transportation, energy, and other services from numerous unaffiliated firms.
Interruptions in production or delivery of these goods or services could
adversely affect General Motors.
 
COMPETITIVE POSITION
 
     General Motors' principal competitors in passenger cars and trucks in the
United States and Canada include Ford Motor Company, Chrysler Corporation,
Toyota Corporation, Nissan Motor Corporation, Ltd., Honda Motor Company, Ltd.,
Mazda Motor Corporation, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Fuji Heavy
 
                                       I-1
<PAGE>   3
 
Industries, Ltd. (Subaru), Volkswagen A.G., Hyundai Motor Company, Ltd.,
Daimler-Benz A.G. (Mercedes), Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), and Volvo AB.
All but Volkswagen and Mercedes currently operate vehicle manufacturing
facilities in the United States or Canada, however, Mercedes currently has an
assembly plant under construction in the United States. Toyota and GM operate
the New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. facility in Fremont, California as a
joint venture which currently builds passenger cars and light-duty trucks.
Wholesale unit sales of General Motors passenger cars and trucks during the
three years ended December 31, 1996 are summarized in Management's Discussion
and Analysis in Part II.
 
     Total industry new motor vehicle (passenger cars, trucks, and buses)
registrations of domestic and foreign makes and General Motors' competitive
position during the three years ended December 31, 1996 were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         1996(1)     1995      1994
                                                         -------     ----      ----
                                                            (UNITS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                      <C>        <C>       <C>
Total industry registrations
  In the United States...............................    15,586     15,219    15,257
  In Canada and Mexico...............................     1,531      1,343     1,839
  In other countries.................................    34,718     32,853    31,429
                                                         ------     ------    ------
Total industry registrations -- all countries........    51,835     49,415    48,525
                                                         ======     ======    ======
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         1996(1)     1995      1994
                                                         -------     ----      ----
                                                         (PERCENT OF TOTAL INDUSTRY)
<S>                                                      <C>        <C>       <C>
General Motors' registrations
  In the United States...............................        31%        32%       33%
  In Canada and Mexico...............................        30         32        28
  In other countries.................................         9          9         9
Total General Motors' registrations -- all
  countries..........................................        16         17        17
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Preliminary
 
     The above information on registrations of new cars, trucks, and buses was
obtained from outside sources and that pertaining to General Motors'
registrations includes units which are manufactured overseas by other companies
and which are imported and sold by General Motors and affiliates.
 
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
 
     In 1996, General Motors spent $8.9 billion for research, manufacturing
engineering, product engineering, and development activities related primarily
to the development of new products or services or the improvement of existing
products or services, including activities related to vehicle emissions control,
improved fuel economy, and the safety of persons using General Motors products.
In addition, $1.6 billion was spent for customer-sponsored activities, the
majority of which were government related. Comparable data for 1995 were $8.2
billion for company-sponsored activities and $1.4 billion for customer-sponsored
activities and for 1994 were $6.9 billion for company-sponsored activities and
$1.5 billion for customer-sponsored activities, respectively.
 
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
 
AUTOMOTIVE EMISSIONS CONTROL
 
     Both the Federal and California governments currently impose stringent
emission control requirements on motor vehicles sold in their respective
jurisdictions. These requirements include pre-production testing of vehicles,
testing of vehicles after assembly, the imposition of emission defect and
performance warranties, and the obligation to recall and repair customer-owned
vehicles determined to be non-compliant with emissions requirements.
 
     Both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air
Resources Board (CARB) continue to place great emphasis on compliance testing of
customer-owned vehicles. Failure to comply with the emission standards or
defective emission control hardware discovered during such testing can
 
                                       I-2
<PAGE>   4
 
lead to substantial cost for General Motors related to emissions recalls. New
CARB and Federal requirements will increase the time and mileage periods over
which manufacturers are responsible for a vehicle's emission performance.
 
     Both the EPA and the CARB emission requirements will become even more
stringent in the future. A new tier of exhaust emission standards for cars and
light-duty trucks, the "Tier 1" standards began phasing in for California
vehicles in the 1993 model year and for Federal vehicles in the 1994 model year.
The phase-in of these "Tier 1" standards was completed in the 1997 model year.
 
     In addition to the Tier 1 standards is the CARB Low Emission Vehicle (LEV)
Program that began with the 1994 model year and defines requirements through
model year 2003 and beyond. This program sets even more stringent exhaust
emission standards for cars and trucks sold in California. General Motors will
have to meet the LEV Program requirements by marketing a mix of vehicles
complying with the Tier 1 standards, Transitional Low Emission Vehicles (TLEVs),
Low Emission Vehicles (LEVs), Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (ULEVs), or Zero
Emission Vehicles (ZEVs). From model years 2003 and later, 10% of cars and small
light-duty trucks (up to 3,750 lb Loaded Vehicle Weight) sold in California must
be ZEVs. Also, GM and six other major vehicle manufacturers signed Memorandum of
Agreements (MOAs) with CARB to provide for a more market driven-introduction of
ZEVs. The MOAs include provisions for an advanced battery ZEV demonstration
program of 3,750 vehicles in the 1998-2000 time frame, a National LEV program or
an alternative that provides equivalent emission benefits in California, the
capability to produce specified numbers of ZEVs as warranted by demand, and
continued research and development of advanced batteries.
 
     The Clean Air Act permits states that have areas with air quality problems
to adopt the California car and truck emission standards in lieu of the Federal
requirements and six states have done so. In addition, the Ozone Transport
Commission (OTC), representing twelve Northeast states and the District of
Columbia, asked the EPA to require the OTC jurisdictions to impose the
California LEV program requirements throughout the Northeast Ozone Transport
Region (OTR). The EPA granted this request on January 24, 1995. This could mean
that vehicles designed for the California LEV program, including ZEVs, would
have to be offered for sale in that region of the country. As an alternative,
the auto industry has proposed a National LEV program, which would require the
phase-in of TLEVs and LEVs in the northeast starting in 1997, and vehicles in
all states outside California meeting LEV standards on average starting in 2001.
The EPA has proposed rulemaking which would implement the National LEV program
as a voluntary alternative available to automakers.
 
     In addition to the above-mentioned exhaust emission programs, onboard
diagnostic (OBD) devices, far more complex than those currently used to diagnose
problems with emission control systems, are required both Federally and in
California effective with the 1996 model year. This new system has the potential
of increasing warranty costs and the chance for recall.
 
     New evaporative emission control requirements for cars and trucks begin
phasing in with the 1995 model year in California and the 1996 model year
Federally. Systems will need to be further modified to accommodate Federal
onboard refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) control standards. ORVR phases in on
passenger cars in the 1998 through 2000 model years and on light-duty trucks in
the 2001 through 2006 model years.
 
     Starting in the 2000 model year, today's test procedure for exhaust
emissions will become more complex with vehicles required to meet two additional
test requirements: 1) measuring exhaust emissions over a new test cycle with the
air conditioner operating; and 2) measuring exhaust emissions over a new high
speed (80 mph) and high load cycle. Both of these requirements have the
potential of adding hardware (and thus costs) to many vehicles.
 
INDUSTRIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
 
     General Motors is subject to various laws relating to the protection of the
environment, and is in various stages of investigation or remediation for sites
where contamination has been alleged. GM has recorded an
 
                                       I-3
<PAGE>   5
 
accrued liability of $646 million at December 31, 1996 and $692 million at
December 31, 1995 for worldwide environmental cleanup as summarized below:
 
- - GM has been identified as a potentially responsible party at sites identified
  by the EPA and state regulatory agencies for cleanup under the Comprehensive
  Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and similar
  state statutes. GM voluntarily and actively participates in cleanup activity
  where such involvement is verified. The foreseeable total liability for 1997
  and beyond for sites involving GM is estimated to be $209 million, which was
  recorded at December 31, 1996. This compares to $227 million at December 31,
  1995.
 
- - For closed or closing plants owned by the Corporation, an estimated liability
  for environmental cleanup is typically recognized at the time the closure
  decision is made for actions which are not specifically required by
  regulations or government action but which serve to minimize future liability.
  Such liability, which is based on an environmental assessment of the plant
  property, is estimated at $121 million, which was recorded at December 31,
  1996. This compares to $136 million at December 31, 1995.
 
- - GM is involved in investigations and cleanup activities at additional
  locations worldwide with a foreseeable liability of approximately $316
  million, which was recorded at December 31, 1996. This compares to $329
  million at December 31, 1995.
 
     The cost impact of the Clean Air Act Amendments under Title V are the
annual emission fees of approximately $9 million per year. Additionally, the
cost of obtaining Title V permits are approximately $5 million for 1996 and an
estimated $2 million for 1997, not including any internal labor costs.
Additional programs under the Clean Air Act, including Hazardous Air Pollutant
standards, and Compliance Assurance Monitoring requirements are estimated to
cost $500 to $700 million through the year 2003.
 
     Expenditures by General Motors in the United States for industrial
environmental control facilities during the three years ended December 31, 1996
were (in millions): 1996-$117; 1995-$116; and 1994-$118. The Corporation
currently estimates that future expenditures for industrial environmental
control facilities through 2000 will be (in millions): 1997-$129; 1998-$106;
1999-$88; and 2000-$62. Specific environmental expenses are difficult to isolate
since expenditures may be made for more than one purpose, making precise
classification difficult.
 
VEHICULAR NOISE CONTROL
 
     The Federal Truck Regulation preempts all state/local noise regulations for
trucks over 10,000 lb Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). All jurisdictions
regulating noise levels of school buses which are built on medium-duty truck
chassis have adopted standards compatible with Federal regulations for
medium-duty trucks. The Federal Truck Regulations contain label and owner's
manual requirements.
 
     Passenger cars and light-duty trucks are subject to state and local motor
vehicle noise regulations. The current standard for vehicles in these classes is
80 dB as measured at 50 feet. Future implementation of more stringent exhaust
emission regulations and more stringent fuel economy regulations will require an
assessment of increased costs of noise control.
 
SAFETY AFFAIRS AND REGULATIONS
 
     Expenditures to maintain the operational safety, occupant protection, and
vehicle theft deterrence capability of new GM models continue. These
expenditures include amounts for the study of alternative approaches for meeting
the needs of all three areas.
 
     A final rule allowing use of Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) as an option was
issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). As a
result, GM announced its intent to provide DRL starting in 1995 on selected
models. Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) are standard on all GM 1997 model year cars
and light trucks, with the exception of the Oldsmobile 'W' car (Cutlass
Supreme). The new Olds 'W' car (Intrigue) will be a 1998 model year vehicle
introduced mid-year 1997, and will be equipped with DRL.
 
                                       I-4
<PAGE>   6
 
     GM is meeting the government requirement for passive restraints by
installing driver and passenger supplemental inflatable restraints (air bags) on
all passenger cars and selected light trucks and vans. Driver air bags have been
approved for all remaining light trucks and vans during the 1997 and 1998 model
years, with a phase-in of dual front passenger air bags in these same vehicles
through the 1999 model year. This will meet the requirements of NHTSA's final
rule specifying that air bags be the only means used to meet the automatic
restraint requirements for passenger cars and light trucks and vans on a
phased-in basis beginning September 1, 1996 and culminating Sept. 1, 1998.
 
     GM is working with NHTSA and suppliers to introduce less aggressive air
bags in order to address concerns about inflation injuries, particularly to
children and smaller adult passengers who are not properly restrained.
 
     New dynamic side impact protection requirements similar to those for cars
will apply to certain light trucks and vans beginning September 1, 1998. Side
structure and interior trim designs of future models will continue to be
affected. Additional market pressure and future model design effects are likely
regarding side impact performance at higher crash speeds. This will result as
the federal government begins its consumer information side impact crash test
program at an elevated impact speed, starting with 1997 model passenger cars.
 
     A new government requirement for vehicle interior impact protection was
proposed in 1993. The final rule, similar to the proposal, was promulgated in
August 1995. This rule will significantly affect upper body structure and
interior trim designs of future model passenger cars and light trucks and vans.
The phase-in for this rulemaking begins in the 1999 model year and will apply to
all these vehicles in the 2003 model year.
 
     The NHTSA currently is considering the effects of fuel system crash
integrity requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 301. If any
of the considerations ultimately are adopted as final rules, some undetermined
redesign, cost, and weight increase could be expected for most of GM's vehicles.
See Item 3, Legal Proceedings, Other Matters.
 
     With the passage of the Anti-Car Theft Act of 1992, implementation costs
affect approximately 22 passenger car assembly plants and 4 light-duty truck
plants. For the affected truck plants, the major expenditures were for new label
printer installations and additional stamping equipment.
 
AUTOMOTIVE FUEL ECONOMY
 
     The Energy Policy and Conservation Act passed in 1975 provided for
production-weighted average fuel economy standards for passenger cars for 1978
and thereafter. Based on EPA combined city-highway test data, the General Motors
1996 model year domestic passenger car fleet is projected to attain a Corporate
Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) of 28.3 miles per gallon (mpg) versus the standard
of 27.5 mpg. The CAFE estimate for 1997 model year passenger cars is projected
at 28.1 mpg versus the standard of 27.5 mpg.
 
     Fuel economy standards for light-duty trucks became effective in 1979.
General Motors' light truck CAFE fleet average for the 1995 model year reached
20.1 mpg versus the standard of 20.6 mpg. For the 1996 model year, GM's truck
CAFE is projected to be 20.7 mpg which is also the standard. GM's 1997 model
year truck CAFE is projected at 20.4 mpg versus a standard of 20.7 mpg.
Projected shortfalls to the standard are expected to be offset by credits from
future model years.
 
     GM's ability to meet increased CAFE standards is contingent on various
future economic, consumer, legislative, and regulatory factors that GM cannot
control and cannot predict with certainty. If GM could not comply with any new
CAFE standards, GM could be subject to sizable civil penalties and could have to
close plants or severely restrict product offerings to remain in compliance.
 
                                       I-5
<PAGE>   7
 
SEASONAL NATURE OF BUSINESS
 
     In the automotive business, there are retail sales fluctuations of a
seasonal nature, so that production varies from month to month. In addition, the
changeover period related to the annual new model introduction has traditionally
occurred in the third quarter of each year. For this reason, third quarter
operating results are, in general, less favorable than those in the other three
quarters of the year, depending on the magnitude of the changeover needed to
commence production of new models incorporating, for example, design
modifications related to more fuel-efficient vehicle packaging, stricter
government standards for safety and emission controls, and consumer-oriented
improvements in performance, comfort, convenience, and style.
 
SEGMENT REPORTING DATA
 
     Industry segment and geographic segment data for 1996, 1995, and 1994 are
summarized in Note 22 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II.
 
                                     ******
 
     The Registrant makes no attempt herein to predict the future trend of its
business and earnings or the effect thereon of the results of changes in general
economic, industrial, regulatory, and international conditions.
 
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
 
     The Corporation, excluding General Motors Acceptance Corporation, has 309
locations operating in 36 states and 165 cities in the United States. Of these,
25 are engaged in the final assembly of GM cars and trucks; 30 are service parts
operations responsible for distribution or warehousing; 30 major plants,
offices, and research facilities relate to the operations of Hughes Electronics
Corporation; and the remainder are offices or involved primarily in the testing
of vehicles or the manufacture of automotive components and power products. In
addition, the Corporation has 18 locations in Canada and assembly,
manufacturing, distribution, or warehousing operations in 54 other countries,
including equity interests in associated companies which conduct assembly,
manufacturing, or distribution operations. The major facilities outside the
United States and Canada, which are principally vehicle manufacturing and
assembly operations, are located in Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico,
Austria, Belgium, and Spain.
 
     Most facilities are owned by the Corporation or its subsidiaries. Leased
properties consist primarily of warehouses and administration, engineering, and
sales offices. The leases for warehouses generally provide for an initial period
of five years and contain renewal options. Leases for sales offices are
generally for shorter periods.
 
     Properties of the Registrant and its subsidiaries include facilities which,
in the opinion of management, are suitable and adequate for the manufacture,
assembly, and distribution of their products.
 
     Additional information regarding worldwide expenditures for plants and
equipment is presented under Management's Discussion and Analysis in Part II.
 
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
     (a) Material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine
litigation incidental to the business, to which the Corporation became, or was,
a party during the year ended December 31, 1996, or subsequent thereto, but
before the filing of this report are summarized below. Reference should also be
made to Note 18 to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II.
 
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
 
     In November, 1996, the Wayne County Department of Health Air Pollution
Division ("Wayne County") informed General Motors that it was seeking fines in
excess of $100,000 in connection with allegations that intermittent emissions of
offensive odors have occurred since 1993 at GM's Oil Reclamation
 
                                       I-6
<PAGE>   8
 
Facility at Clark Street in Detroit, Michigan. General Motors and Wayne County
are continuing discussions to resolve this matter.
 
                                      * *
 
     On March 1, 1993, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") Region V
issued a civil administrative complaint alleging that stormwater from the
Chevrolet-Pontiac-GM of Canada Group's Pontiac Fiero plant in Pontiac, Michigan
exceeded the facility's National Pollutant Discharge System Permit from May 1989
through May 1992.
 
     On March 26, 1993, the Region V office of the EPA issued a Civil
Administration Complaint against the Corporation alleging that 65 petroleum and
hazardous substance underground storage tanks (USTs), which it has operated at
its Technical Center in Warren, Michigan, have been in violation of certain of
the EPA UST regulations. The EPA has proposed a civil penalty of $267,447. Based
upon its current evaluation of this matter, General Motors believes that the
operations cited by the EPA's complaint have been and remain in substantial
compliance with applicable UST regulations. On June 28, 1996, an EPA
Administrative Law Judge ("ALJ") made a determination that General Motors is
liable for stormwater discharges from the closed Fiero assembly plant in
Pontiac, Michigan which exceed the 1988 permit limits for copper, lead and zinc.
The ALJ rejected General Motors' arguments that the permit (a) was void by Act
of Congress, (b) had expired in 1990, and (c) in any event, did not apply
because the source of the metals is not industrial operations but rather from
(1) ambient rainfall and (2) dissolving by acid rain of copper gutters, lead
solder and flashing, and galvanized roof decking. Ruling that copper, lead and
zinc are pollutants for which dischargers are strictly responsible regardless of
their source, the ALJ found General Motors liable for 92 permit exceedances.
General Motors came into compliance in 1992 by coating the metal on the roof.
The EPA sought the $125,000 maximum administrative penalty; the ALJ supervised
negotiations between the EPA and General Motors regarding the amount of the
penalty and recommended a penalty of $62,500. General Motors is appealing the
amount of the penalty and the determination of strict liability before the EPA
Board of Appeals.
 
                                      * *
 
     In March 1993, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) notified
the Corporation's Powertrain Division (PD) that MDNR was making a referral to
the Michigan Attorney General for resolution of allegations by MDNR that a PD
facility in Saginaw, Michigan had failed to conduct a timely environmental
investigation to MDNR's satisfaction of a landfill and certain other areas at
the facility's property, and that PD's on-site water recycling basins were
improperly discharging contaminants into the groundwater and the Saginaw River.
 
                                      * *
 
     On June 28, 1994, the Attorney General for the State of Michigan, on behalf
of the MDNR, filed a complaint in Circuit Court of the 30th Judicial Circuit in
Ingham County, Michigan alleging that several of GM's plants released
polychlorinated biphenyls (commonly referred to as "PCBs") into the Saginaw
River thereby causing damage to natural resources in the river and Saginaw Bay.
The State has not asserted that it is seeking fines or penalties and no amount
is specified in the complaint as damages, but the State is seeking reimbursement
of all its past and future response costs, including enforcement costs, and
natural resource damages relating to the Saginaw River and Bay. In this regard,
representatives of the State have indicated that the State will be seeking "tens
of millions of dollars" in damages as well as several million dollars in past
response costs. GM is currently in discussions with representatives of the
Michigan Attorney General and the MDNR regarding this matter.
 
     GM has also been advised that the U.S. Department of Interior ("DOI") may
be conducting an investigation of these matters and any related damage to the
environment, and that DOI may pursue independent claims against GM, the City of
Saginaw and Bay City.
 
                                       I-7
<PAGE>   9
 
                                      * *
 
OTHER MATTERS
 
     In October, 1994, as previously reported, a California jury awarded a total
of $89.5 million in damages against Hughes, including punitive damages of $40
million to each of two former Hughes employees, Lane (race
discrimination/retaliation) and Villalpando (retaliation), based on claims of
mistreatment and denials of promotions. The trial court granted Hughes' motion
to set aside the verdicts because of insufficient evidence. On January 6, 1997,
the Court of Appeal reversed the trial court's decision to set aside the
verdicts, reinstated the jury verdicts, but reduced the two $40 million punitive
damage awards to $5 million and $2.83 million, resulting in an aggregate
judgment of $17.33 million. Hughes has filed a petition for review by the
California Supreme Court, which was supported by various amicus briefs. Because
review by the California Supreme Court is in the discretion of that court, no
assurance can be given that the case will be accepted for review, or that if
accepted, the Supreme Court's decision will be favorable to Hughes.
 
                                      * *
 
     On April 26 and 27, 1996, two purported class actions, Keith McGill v.
General Motors Corporation and Richard Dolowich v. General Motors Corporation,
were filed against General Motors in the Supreme Court of the State of New York,
Counties of Bronx and Suffolk, alleging defective rear disc brake caliper pins
in the "GM W-Body car". These actions have been consolidated in the Supreme
Court of the State of New York, County of Bronx. The Dolowich suit is brought on
behalf of all persons and entities in the United States who currently own or
lease or previously owned or leased a 1988-1993 Buick Regal, Oldsmobile Cutlass
Supreme, Pontiac Grand Prix or Chevrolet Lumina. The McGill suit includes the
same model year vehicles, but is brought on behalf of persons and entities
residing in the State of New York who purchased or leased such vehicles and
still own them. Three additional purported nationwide class actions, brought on
behalf of current and previous owners of the same vehicles, have been filed in
Federal courts in New Jersey, Garcia v. General Motors, and Pennsylvania, Neff
v. General Motors and Marcel v. General Motors. Two additional purported class
actions involving the same vehicles were filed, one in the Superior Court of New
Jersey for Burlington County, Bishop v. General Motors Corporation and another
in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania,
Cohen v. General Motors Corporation. Together, the complaints allege violation
of state consumer protection laws, fraud, negligent misrepresentation, and
breach of express and implied warranty, and seek unspecified amounts of economic
damages, punitive damages not less than $20 million, attorneys' fees and costs,
and injunctive relief. The Neff, Marcel and Cohen actions have been consolidated
in Pennsylvania State Court. The Garcia and Bishop actions have been
consolidated in New Jersey State Court. On November 11, 1996, the New Jersey
state court rendered a decision certifying a class of all past and present
owners of 1988 through 1993 model year Buick Regals, Chevrolet Luminas,
Oldsmobile Cutlass Supremes and Pontiac Grand Prix. The New Jersey Appellate
Division denied GM's motion for leave to appeal, but noted that the trial court
is required to monitor compliance with the requirements to maintain a class.
General Motors had requested the New Jersey Supreme Court to review the class
certification.
 
                                      * *
 
     Two suits, Stephen A. Solomon v. General Motors Corporation, et al. and TRV
Holding Company v. General Motors Corporation, et al., (collectively
"Solomon/TRV"), were filed in Delaware Chancery Court on May 13 and 18, 1994,
respectively. Such actions have been consolidated and a consolidated amended
complaint was filed on April 2, 1996. In addition, on May 10, 1996, a second
amended and supplemental consolidated complaint (the "Second Amended Complaint")
was filed by plaintiffs in this action. Another lawsuit, Ward et al., as
Trustees for the Eisenberg Children's Irrevocable Trust II v. General Motors
Corporation, et al. ("Ward"), was filed in Delaware Chancery Court on November
15, 1995. On May 17, 1996, Solomon/TRV and Ward (collectively,
"Solomon/TRV/Ward") were consolidated and the Second Amended Complaint was
adopted as the complaint for the consolidated action.
 
     Solomon/TRV/Ward purports to be a class action brought on behalf of former
holders of Class E common stock, $0.10 par value per share (the "Class E Common
Stock"), of General Motors Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("General
Motors"), against certain present and former directors of General Motors, as
 
                                       I-8
<PAGE>   10
 
well as a double derivative action brought on behalf of EDS against certain
present and former directors of General Motors and certain former directors of
EDS (all of whom are also directors or officers of General Motors). EDS is named
in the complaint only as a nominal defendant with respect to the double
derivative action. The Second Amended Complaint alleges that defendants have
breached and are continuing to breach their fiduciary duties in connection with
their conduct with respect to EDS and the proposed split-off of EDS from General
Motors (the "Split-Off"). In particular, the complaint alleges that the process
of establishing terms for the Split-Off, including the consideration of
alternatives to such transaction and the negotiating process in connection
therewith, was unfairly dominated and controlled by General Motors and that the
resulting terms unfairly benefit General Motors and its continuing shareholders,
including the holders of common stock, $1 2/3 par value per share (the "$1 2/3
Common Stock"), and the Class H common stock, $0.10 par value per share (the
"Class H Common Stock"), of General Motors, to the detriment of EDS and the
former holders of Class E Common Stock. The complaint also alleges that the
Split-Off would unfairly effect a disposition of EDS because it would not
provide for a recapitalization of the Class E Common Stock into $1 2/3 Common
Stock at a 120% exchange ratio, as had been provided in the General Motors
Certificate of Incorporation upon a disposition by General Motors of
substantially all of the business of EDS. Furthermore, the complaint alleges
that the solicitation of consents by General Motors with respect to the proposed
Split-Off is wrongfully coercive and the solicitation statement being used in
connection therewith is materially deficient. The Second Amended Complaint seeks
monetary damages from the defendants, as well as an injunction against further
action in connection with the Split-Off. In addition, the complaint seeks an
order appointing independent representatives to act on behalf of and protect the
interests of EDS and the former holders of Class E Common Stock. The complaint
also seeks an order requiring the defendants to disseminate completely all
material information to the former holders of Class E Common Stock in connection
with the Split-Off.
 
     On May 10, 1996, the plaintiffs in the consolidated action filed a motion
for expedited proceedings, including a request for a hearing on their
application for a preliminary injunction against further action in connection
with the Split-Off. As a result of such application, a hearing on the
plaintiffs' application for a preliminary injunction had been scheduled for May
30, 1996. On May 23, 1996, after limited discovery, the plaintiffs' counsel
informed the court that plaintiffs had concluded that adequate relief could be
afforded to the plaintiff class members after the Split-Off is consummated and
were withdrawing their application for expedited proceedings including a
preliminary injunction hearing. Thus, plaintiffs abandonded their pursuit of an
injunction to prevent consummation of the Split-Off. On June 7, 1996, having
received consent of a majority of the holders of each class of its common stock,
General Motors Split-Off EDS to former General Motors Class E stockholders. (See
Tabulation of consents at Item 4, page 36 of the Form 10-Q filed by General
Motors for the Quarter Ended June 30, 1996). Since the date of the Split-Off,
plaintiffs have not filed a further amended complaint.
 
                                      * *
 
     In September 1973, Hughes Aircraft Company ("HAC") filed suit against the
U.S. Government in the U.S. Court of Claims seeking reasonable and entire
compensation for the unauthorized manufacture or use by the United States of the
invention claims in a HAC patent (the "Williams Patent") covering "Velocity
Control and Orientation of a Spin Stabilized Body," principally satellites. In
late 1983, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (the U.S.
Court with appellate jurisdiction for patent cases) ruled that the Williams
Patent was valid and that the Government had infringed that patent. The
compensation which HAC is entitled to recover as a result of the Government's
infringement is now being determined by the U.S. Court of Claims, as well as
whether additional U.S. Government satellites also infringe.
 
     The trial concluded in December 1988. HAC contended that its recovery
should be calculated in accordance with either of two methods for computing
delay compensation and introduced evidence to support an award of approximately
$4.8 billion or $1.5 billion depending upon the methods used. The Government
sought to demonstrate to the Court that any damages awarded to HAC in this case
should not exceed $20-30 million. In August 1993, the Court determined that
approximately $4 billion in satellite purchases infringed the patent. On June
17, 1994, the U.S. Court of Claims awarded Hughes damages of $114 million.
Because Hughes believed that the record supported a higher royalty rate, it
appealed that decision. The U.S.
 
                                       I-9
<PAGE>   11
 
Government, contending that the award was too high, also appealed. On June 19,
1996, the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed the decision of the
Court of Claims which awarded Hughes $114 million in damages, together with
interest. The U.S. Government petitioned the Court of Appeals for the Federal
Circuit for a rehearing. That petition was denied in October of 1996. The U.S.
Government has filed a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court seeking certiorari.
In the opinion of management of Hughes, there is a reasonable possibility that
this matter could be resolved in the near term. While no amount has been
recorded in the financial statements of Hughes to reflect the $114 million
award, a resolution of this matter could result in a gain that would be material
to the earnings of General Motors attributable to Class H Common Stock.
 
                                      * *
 
     As previously reported, thirty-eight class actions have been filed in state
and Federal courts against the Corporation, claiming that 1973-1987 model
Chevrolet and GMC full-size pickup trucks are defective because their fuel tanks
are mounted below the cab and outside the frame rails. Twenty-four Federal court
class actions were transferred to the Federal court in Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation. In these
actions, plaintiffs claimed that the fuel tank locations make the vehicles
unreasonably susceptible to fuel-fed fires following side-impact collisions.
Plaintiffs alleged breach of contract and warranty, negligence, fraud and
negligent misrepresentation, as well as violation of various state consumer
protection laws. The lawsuits seek compensatory and punitive damages and
injunctions requiring notice to owners, repairs, retrofitting and "disgorgement"
of revenues.
 
     An agreement for a nationwide settlement of the class actions pending in
federal and state courts received final court approval on December 19, 1996, by
a state court in Louisiana. The settlement, which is not expected to have a
material effect on the consolidated financial statements of General Motors,
provides for owners of 1973 to 1991 full-size pickup trucks and cab chassis with
outside-the-frame fuel tanks, as of July 3, 1996, to receive certificates for
$1,000 toward the purchase of any new General Motors passenger car or light
truck, except Saturns. The certificates can be used for the first 15 months at
$1,000 or transferred one time, whereupon the transferee would be able to use
the certificate for $500 ($250 if used with a General Motors rebate) toward the
purchase of an eligible vehicle until expiration of the 15-month period. After
the first 15 months, original recipients of the certificates may use them for an
additional 18 months at $500 or transfer them, whereupon the transferee would be
able to use the certificates for $250 towards the purchase of an eligible
vehicle. For fleets and governmental entities, after the first 15 months, the
certificates are reduced to $250 for an additional 35 months, but are not
transferable, except to other departments or agencies of the same governmental
entity.
 
     The settlement also provides for $4.1 million to fund motor vehicle fire
safety research. Research funds will be used to benefit motor vehicle safety
generally, and research will not be done on the pickup trucks. The court ordered
General Motors to pay plaintiffs' attorneys' fees and costs totaling $27.875
million. Various appeals have been filed, including an appeal by General Motors
seeking to reduce the award of fees and costs to plaintiffs' attorneys.
Certificates will not be issued until appeals are concluded and the approval of
the settlement is final. General Motors cannot estimate the amount of time
required to resolve the various appeals.
 
     There are also pending individual product liability claims and lawsuits
involving allegations of defects in the design of such vehicles resulting in
fuel-fed fires following side-impact collisions. GM intends to defend these
cases vigorously.
 
                                      * *
 
     On December 2, 1996, a purported class action, Alma Rose Rangel, et al. v.
General Motors Corporation, was filed in District Court, Webb County, Texas,
claiming that the Type III door latches used in approximately 40 million 1978 to
1986 model GM passenger cars and light trucks are defective. Plaintiffs allege
breaches of express and implied warranties, negligence and gross negligence and
seek compensatory and punitive damages and attorneys' fees. No determination has
been made that the case can proceed as a class action. GM has removed the case
to the United States District Court, Southern District of Texas, Laredo Division
and intends to oppose certification of a class and defend the case vigorously.
Separately, a petition to
 
                                      I-10
<PAGE>   12
 
open a defect investigation of the Type III door latches was denied by the
National Highway Safety Traffic Administration.
 
                                      * *
 
     Eight suits, denominated by plaintiffs as class actions, were filed in
Delaware Chancery Court, Jules Levine v. General Motors Corporation, et al., on
February 6, 1997; Steven Verkouteren v. General Motors Corporation, et al., on
February 6, 1997; Malcolm Rosenwald v. General Motors Corporation, et al., on
February 7, 1997; Richard Strauss v. General Motors Corporation, et al., on
February 7, 1997; Jeanette Whited, et al. v. General Motors Corporation, et al.,
on February 26, 1997; Andrew Carlucci, I.R.A. v. General Motors Corporation, et
al., on March 3, 1997; Dr. Joseph Mantel v. General Motors Corporation, et al.,
on March 5, 1997; and John P. McCarthy Profit Sharing Plan v. General Motors
Corporation, et al., on March 6, 1997. On March 19, 1997, a proposed Order of
Consolidation of all eight actions was forwarded to the Delaware Chancery Court
on behalf of counsel for all plaintiffs. Under the proposed order, the complaint
in the Whited suit would be adopted as the complaint in the consolidated action.
That complaint purports to be brought against General Motors and its directors
on behalf of Class H stockholders who either do not own any $1 2/3 common stock
or who own a larger percentage of outstanding Class H common stock than they own
of outstanding $1 2/3 common stock. The complaint alleges, essentially, that
defendants are breaching their contractual and fiduciary obligations to holders
of Class H common stock by structuring the spin-off of Hughes Electronics
Corporation's defense business and related transactions (see discussion of
Hughes Transactions at pp. II-58 and 59) to benefit General Motors and its
$1 2/3 common stockholders at the expense of General Motors Class H common
stockholders. It is further alleged, among other things, that Class H common
stockholders are being coerced to forfeit the current provisions of GM's
Certificate of Incorporation that would result under certain circumstances in a
recapitalization of Class H common stock at a 120 percent exchange rate in order
to receive the benefits of the transactions. It is also alleged that no
independent representative is separately representing the interests of Class H
common stockholders. Principally, the complaint seeks monetary damages, an order
enjoining the transactions, the implementation of procedural safeguards to
protect the interests of Class H stockholders, and the rescission of the
transactions if they are consummated. Plaintiffs have advised that they intend
to serve a Consolidated Amended Complaint as soon as practicable. GM believes
the suits are without merit and intends to defend them vigorously.
 
                                      * *
 
     Four separate putative class actions have been filed alleging defects in
vehicle paint. One has been dismissed. No determination has been made as to
whether any of the three pending cases may proceed as a class action.
 
     As previously reported, on March 24, 1995, a purported nationwide class
action, Christian Amedee and Louis Fuxan v. General Motors Corporation, et al.,
was filed in the Civil District Court for the Parish of New Orleans, State of
Louisiana, alleging the paint or paint application process used by GM at several
unspecified North American assembly plants was defective due to the omission of
a surface layer primer, allegedly causing the paint to prematurely delaminate,
deteriorate, and peel. Plaintiffs seek unspecified compensatory damages,
equitable relief, interest, costs and attorneys' fees. On May 3, 1995, another
purported class action, Barney Kizzire v. General Motors Corporation and Bynum
Oldsmobile-Pontiac-Cadillac-GMC, Inc., was filed in the Circuit Court for
Fayette County, Alabama, on behalf of a proposed class of Alabama residents who
purchased 1989 GMC pickup trucks alleging that the paint was defective. That
case was subsequently removed to federal court and the named plaintiff's claims
were all dismissed with prejudice on November 27, 1996. On July 12, 1996, the
Corporation was served with a putative class action filed in the Circuit Court
of Greene County, Alabama, Robert J. Reining, et al. v. General Motors
Corporation. The complaint alleges that the paint systems used in the 1985
through 1995 model years are defective or potentially defective because GM
switched to "water-based primers" which could result in various problems with
vehicle finish, and seeks compensatory damages, disgorgement of profits,
exemplary damages, costs and a determination that GM is financially responsible
for the costs of repair or replacement.
 
     On January 29, 1997, the Corporation was served with a putative class
action, Karpowicz v. General Motors Corporation, filed in the Circuit Court of
the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit in Kane County, Illinois. This
 
                                      I-11
<PAGE>   13
 
case, purportedly brought on behalf of Illinois purchasers of new vehicles which
experienced peeling paint, alleges that GM broke a promise to repair paint
conditions for six years from the date of purchase and failed to implement fair
and uniform corrective measures. The complaint seeks unspecified compensatory
damages, statutory damages and penalties; an injunction halting the practices
alleged; and attorneys' fees, litigation expenses and costs.
 
                                      * *
 
     As previously reported, several actions seeking compensatory and punitive
damages in unspecified amounts were filed against Hughes by plaintiffs alleging
that they suffered injuries as a result of the migration into the Tucson,
Arizona water supply of alleged toxic substances that were disposed of at a
facility owned by the United States Government which Hughes operates under a
contract with the U.S. Air Force. These actions included a putative class action
filed in Arizona State Court, Cordova v. Hughes Aircraft Company, an individual
action filed on behalf of approximately 800 plaintiffs in Federal District Court
in Arizona, Yslava v. Hughes Aircraft Company, and a class action filed in
Federal District Court in Arizona, Lanier v. Hughes Aircraft Company. Other
governmental and private entities are known to have also been sources of
substances which may have migrated into the Tucson water supply. Hughes believes
that it has strong defense to the claims asserted against it and that it may
have claims for contribution against the other entities. In July, 1996, the
Cordova court denied plaintiffs' motion for class certification and,
subsequently, an amended complaint in intervention on behalf of more than 400
plaintiffs asserting individual claims was filed.
 
                                      * *
 
     On January 23, 1997, in the matter of Jacobson, et al v. Hughes Aircraft
Co. et al, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit reversed and remanded a
decision of the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles in which the District court
had dismissed the plaintiff's complaint without leave to amend, for failure to
state a claim. The complaint in that action, filed in January, 1992, by five
retired employees of Hughes as a putative class action to obtain increased
retirement benefits, alleged that the Hughes Non-Bargaining Retirement Plan had
been constructively terminated and split into two separate plans by virtue of
action by Hughes in 1991 in which it amended the Plan in order to implement a
non-contributory benefit formula for newly hired employees. The complaint
alleges that an effect of the amendment is that assets of the Plan have been
used improperly. On February 20, 1997, Hughes filed a request for rehearing
seeking to reinstate the decisions of the District court, all of which was
supported by friend of the court briefs by the Pension Benefit Guaranty
Corporation, Raytheon, various industry groups, and Hughes retirees and
employees associations. Hughes strongly believes that it should prevail in this
action and that ultimately it will do so. If the rehearing is not granted by the
U.S. Court of Appeals Hughes will seek certiorari from the U.S. Supreme Court.
 
     On February 10, 1997, citing the January 16, 1997 announcement by General
Motors, Hughes Electronics and Raytheon of the planned spin-off of Hughes
Aircraft Company from General Motors, and the planned merger of Hughes Aircraft
Company with Raytheon Company, plaintiffs filed a motion with the U.S. Court of
Appeals for the 9th Circuit seeking to enjoin Hughes and the Plan from
transferring assets, control, or administration of the Plan to any other
employer, or from terminating or amending the Plan. Hughes believes there is no
basis for the injunctions sought by Plaintiffs. Hughes and the Plaintiffs have
filed briefs with the Court of Appeals relating to Plaintiffs motion to enjoin,
and await a decision of the Court. Hughes is vigorously contesting the motion.
 
                                      * *
 
     (b) Previously reported legal proceedings which have been terminated,
either during the quarter ended December 31, 1996, or subsequent thereto, but
before the filing of this report are summarized below:
 
     In connection with a matter that was reported as terminated in the GM Form
10-Q for the period ended June 30, 1996, specifically, approval by the United
States District Court for the District of Columbia, on April 30, 1996 of a
consent decree previously signed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
("EPA"), the U.S. Department of Justice, and General Motors to resolve
allegations that GM violated the Clean Air Act and EPA emissions regulations
with regard to 470,000 1991-1995 model Cadillacs having 4.9 liter engines.
 
                                      I-12
<PAGE>   14
 
GM has entered into a related agreement with the California Air Resources Board
("CARB") under which General Motors will pay $600,000 to the California Air
Pollution Control Board, $500,000 to the University of Southern California to
fund studies on the effects of air pollution on children's health and provide a
number of electric vehicles and advanced electric vehicle batteries to CARB to
resolve potential allegations that CARB was considering asserting against
General Motors regarding non-compliance of the aforementioned Cadillac 4.9 liter
engines under various vehicle emission standards and vehicle certification
procedures required by California statutes and regulations.
 
                                      * *
 
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
 
     None during the three months ended December 31, 1996.
 
                                     * * *
 
                                      I-13
<PAGE>   15
 
                                    PART II
 
                           GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION
                                AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                             CROSS REFERENCE SHEET
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                    10-K ITEM                                   PAGE (AND CAPTION) IN PART II
                    ---------                                   -----------------------------
<S>  <C>                                             <C>       <C>
5.   Market for Registrant's Common Equity and
       Related Stockholder Matters
       (a) Market information....................    II-42 --  Selected Quarterly Data
       (b) Approximate number of holders of
           common stocks.........................    II-43 --  Selected Quarterly Data
       (c) Dividends
            (1) History..........................    II-42 --  Selected Quarterly Data
            (2) Policy...........................    II-35 --  Dividends on Common Stocks
6.   Selected Financial Data.....................    II-45 --  Selected Financial Data
7.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of
       Financial Condition and Results of
       Operations................................    II-48 --  Management's Discussion and Analysis
8.   Financial Statements and Supplementary
     Data........................................    II-2 --   Responsibilities for Consolidated
                                                               Financial Statements
                                                     II-3 --   Independent Auditors' Report
                                                     II-4 --   Consolidated Statements of Income for the
                                                               Years Ended December 31, 1996, 1995, and
                                                               1994
                                                     II-5 --   Consolidated Balance Sheets, December 31,
                                                               1996 and 1995
                                                     II-6 --   Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for
                                                               the Years Ended December 31, 1996, 1995,
                                                               and 1994
                                                     II-7 --   Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
                                                     II-42 --  Selected Quarterly Data
9.   Changes in and Disagreements with
       Accountants on Accounting and Financial
       Disclosure................................    None
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-1
<PAGE>   16
 
             RESPONSIBILITIES FOR CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
     The following consolidated financial statements of General Motors
Corporation and subsidiaries were prepared by management, which is responsible
for their integrity and objectivity. The statements have been prepared in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles and, as such, include
amounts based on judgments of management. Financial information elsewhere in
this Annual Report is consistent with that in the consolidated financial
statements.
 
     Management is further responsible for maintaining a system of internal
accounting controls that is designed to provide reasonable assurance that the
books and records reflect the transactions of the companies and that its
established policies and procedures are carefully followed. From a stockholder's
point of view, perhaps the most important feature in the system of controls is
that it is continually reviewed for its effectiveness and is augmented by
written policies and guidelines, the careful selection and training of qualified
personnel, and a strong program of internal audit.
 
     Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent auditing firm, is engaged to audit
the consolidated financial statements of General Motors Corporation and
subsidiaries and issue reports thereon. The audit is conducted in accordance
with generally accepted auditing standards that comprehend the consideration of
internal accounting controls and tests of transactions to the extent necessary
to form an independent opinion on the financial statements prepared by
management. The Independent Auditors' Report appears on the next page.
 
     The Board of Directors, through the Audit Committee (composed entirely of
non-employee Directors), is responsible for assuring that management fulfills
its responsibilities in the preparation of the consolidated financial
statements. The Committee selects the independent auditors annually in advance
of the Annual Meeting of Stockholders and submits the selection for ratification
at the Meeting. In addition, the Committee reviews the scope of the audits and
the accounting principles being applied in financial reporting. The independent
auditors, representatives of management, and the internal auditors meet
regularly (separately and jointly) with the Committee to review the activities
of each, to ensure that each is properly discharging its responsibilities, and
to assess the effectiveness of the system of internal accounting controls. It is
management's conclusion that the system of internal accounting controls at
December 31, 1996 provides reasonable assurance that the books and records
reflect the transactions of the companies and that its established policies and
procedures are complied with. To ensure complete independence, Deloitte & Touche
LLP has full and free access to meet with the Committee, without management
representatives present, to discuss the results of the audit, the adequacy of
internal accounting controls, and the quality of the financial reporting.
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                      <C>
/s/ JOHN F. SMITH, JR.                   /s/ J. MICHAEL LOSH
- -------------------------------------    ---------------------------
JOHN F. SMITH, JR.                       J. MICHAEL LOSH
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer,       Chief Financial Officer
and President
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-2
<PAGE>   17
 
                          INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
 
General Motors Corporation,
its Directors, and Stockholders:
 
     We have audited the Consolidated Balance Sheets of General Motors
Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 and the related
Consolidated Statements of Income and Cash Flows for each of the three years in
the period ended December 31, 1996. Our audits also included the financial
statement schedule listed at Item 14. These financial statements and the
financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Corporation's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial
statements and the financial statement schedule based on our audits.
 
     We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
     In our opinion, such financial statements present fairly, in all material
respects, the financial position of General Motors Corporation and subsidiaries
at December 31, 1996 and 1995 and the results of their operations and their cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1996 in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion,
such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic
consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all
material respects, the information set forth therein.
 
     As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, effective January 1,
1995 the Corporation changed its method of accounting for sales to daily rental
car companies. Also, as discussed in Notes 1 and 4 to the financial statements,
respectively, effective January 1, 1994 the Corporation changed its methods of
accounting for postemployment benefits and certain investments in debt and
equity securities.
 
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
- --------------------------------------
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
 
Detroit, Michigan
January 28, 1997
 
                                      II-3
<PAGE>   18
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                --------------------------------
                                                                  1996        1995        1994
                                                                  ----        ----        ----
                                                                      (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS
                                                                   EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                             <C>         <C>         <C>
Net sales and revenues (Note 1)
Manufactured products.......................................    $145,341    $143,666    $134,760
Financial services..........................................      12,674      11,664       9,419
Other income (Note 3).......................................       6,054       4,942       4,320
                                                                --------    --------    --------
      Total net sales and revenues..........................     164,069     160,272     148,499
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Costs and expenses
Cost of sales and other operating charges, exclusive of
  items listed below........................................     123,922     121,300     113,585
Selling, general and administrative expenses................      14,580      12,550      11,319
Depreciation and amortization expenses (Note 1).............      11,840      11,213       9,645
Interest expense (Note 11)..................................       5,695       5,182       5,392
Plant closings reserve adjustments (Note 17)................        (727)         --          --
Other deductions (Note 3)...................................       2,083       1,678       1,460
                                                                --------    --------    --------
      Total costs and expenses..............................     157,393     151,923     141,401
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Income from continuing operations before income taxes.......       6,676       8,349       7,098
Income taxes (Note 7).......................................       1,723       2,316       2,232
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Income from continuing operations before cumulative effect
  of accounting changes.....................................       4,953       6,033       4,866
Income from discontinued operations (Note 2)................          10         900         793
Cumulative effect of accounting changes (Note 1)............          --         (52)       (758)
                                                                --------    --------    --------
      Net Income............................................       4,963       6,881       4,901
Preference shares tender offer premium (Note 19)............          --         153          --
Dividends on preference stocks (Note 19)....................          81         211         321
                                                                --------    --------    --------
      Earnings on common stocks.............................    $  4,882    $  6,517    $  4,580
                                                                ========    ========    ========
Earnings attributable to common stocks (Note 20)
  $1 2/3 par value from continuing operations before
    cumulative effect of accounting changes.................    $  4,589    $  5,404    $  4,296
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations (Note 2).......          (5)        105         349
  Cumulative effect of accounting changes (Note 1)..........          --         (52)       (751)
                                                                --------    --------    --------
      Net earnings attributable to $1 2/3 par value.........    $  4,584    $  5,457    $  3,894
                                                                ========    ========    ========
  Income from discontinued operations attributable to Class
    E (Note 2)..............................................    $     15    $    795    $    444
                                                                ========    ========    ========
  Class H before cumulative effect of accounting change.....    $    283    $    265    $    249
  Cumulative effect of accounting change (Note 1)...........          --          --          (7)
                                                                --------    --------    --------
      Net earnings attributable to Class H..................    $    283    $    265    $    242
                                                                ========    ========    ========
Average number of shares of common stocks outstanding (in
  millions)
  $1 2/3 par value..........................................         756         750         741
  Class E (Notes 2 and 20)..................................         470         405         260
  Class H...................................................          98          96          92
Earnings per share attributable to common stocks (Note 20)
  $1 2/3 par value from continuing operations before
    cumulative effect of accounting changes.................       $6.07       $7.14       $5.74
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations (Note 2).......       (0.01)       0.14        0.46
  Cumulative effect of accounting changes (Note 1)..........          --       (0.07)      (1.05)
                                                                --------    --------    --------
      Net earnings attributable to $1 2/3 par value.........       $6.06       $7.21       $5.15
                                                                ========    ========    ========
  Income from discontinued operations attributable to Class
    E (Note 2)..............................................       $0.04       $1.96       $1.71
                                                                ========    ========    ========
  Class H before cumulative effect of accounting change.....       $2.88       $2.77       $2.70
  Cumulative effect of accounting change (Note 1)...........          --          --       (0.08)
                                                                --------    --------    --------
      Net earnings attributable to Class H..................       $2.88       $2.77       $2.62
                                                                ========    ========    ========
</TABLE>
 
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      II-4
<PAGE>   19
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 31,
                                                              -----------------------
                                                                1996           1995
                                                                ----           ----
                                                               (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents...................................  $ 14,063       $ 10,495
Other marketable securities.................................     8,199          5,523
                                                              --------       --------
     Total cash and marketable securities (Notes 1 and 4)...    22,262         16,018
Finance receivables -- net (Note 5).........................    57,550         59,806
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances).............     6,557          6,979
Inventories (less allowances) (Note 6)......................    11,898         11,348
Net assets of discontinued operations (Note 2)..............        --          5,055
Contracts in process (less advances and progress payments of
  $1,010 and $1,327) (Note 1)...............................     2,507          2,469
Deferred income taxes (Note 7)..............................    19,510         19,720
Equipment on operating leases (less accumulated depreciation
  of $7,661 and $7,225) (Note 8)............................    30,112         27,702
Property (Note 1)
  Real estate, plants, and equipment (Note 9)...............    69,770         67,415
  Less accumulated depreciation.............................   (41,298)       (41,017)
                                                              --------       --------
     Net real estate, plants, and equipment.................    28,472         26,398
  Special tools -- net......................................     9,032          8,171
                                                              --------       --------
     Total property.........................................    37,504         34,569
Intangible assets -- net (Notes 1 and 10)...................    12,691         10,273
Other assets................................................    21,551         19,724
                                                              --------       --------
     Total assets...........................................  $222,142       $213,663
                                                              ========       ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Liabilities
Accounts payable (principally trade)........................  $ 14,221       $ 12,685
Notes and loans payable (Note 11)...........................    85,300         81,222
Deferred income taxes (Note 7)..............................     3,207          3,108
Postretirement benefits other than pensions (Note 14).......    43,190         41,596
Pensions (Note 16)..........................................     7,599          6,691
Other liabilities and deferred credits (Note 15)............    45,207         45,015
                                                              --------       --------
     Total liabilities......................................   198,724        190,317
Stockholders' equity (Notes 19 and 20)
Preference stocks...........................................         1              1
Common stocks
  $1 2/3 par value (issued, 756,619,625 and 753,008,273
     shares)................................................     1,261          1,255
  Class E (Note 2; issued, 442,812,166 shares in 1995)......        --             44
  Class H (Note 23; issued, 100,075,000 and 97,152,014
     shares)................................................        10             10
Capital surplus (principally additional paid-in capital)....    19,189         18,871
Retained earnings...........................................     6,137          7,185
                                                              --------       --------
     Subtotal...............................................    26,598         27,366
Minimum pension liability adjustment (Note 16)..............    (3,490)        (4,736)
Accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments........      (113)           223
Net unrealized gains on investments in certain debt and
  equity securities (Note 4)................................       423            493
                                                              --------       --------
     Total stockholders' equity.............................    23,418         23,346
                                                              --------       --------
     Total liabilities and stockholders' equity.............  $222,142       $213,663
                                                              ========       ========
</TABLE>
 
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      II-5
<PAGE>   20
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                -----------------------------------
                                                                  1996         1995         1994
                                                                  ----         ----         ----
                                                                       (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>          <C>          <C>
Cash flows from operating activities
  Income from continuing operations before cumulative effect
    of accounting changes...................................    $   4,953    $   6,033    $   4,866
  Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations
    before cumulative effect of accounting changes to net
    cash provided by operating activities
      Depreciation and amortization expenses................       11,840       11,213        9,645
      Provision for ongoing postretirement benefits other
         than pensions, net of cash payments................        1,575        1,684        2,253
      Pension expense, net of cash contributions............          801       (2,932)      (5,018)
      Plant closings reserve adjustments....................         (727)          --           --
      Pre-tax loss (gain) on sale of business units.........          253          116          (18)
      Originations and purchases of mortgage loans..........      (19,455)     (12,086)     (10,136)
      Proceeds on sales of mortgage loans...................       18,157       11,613       10,719
      Provision for financing losses........................          669          449          177
      Change in other operating assets and liabilities
         Accounts receivable................................         (178)        (331)      (1,991)
         Inventories........................................         (757)      (1,214)      (1,656)
         Accounts payable...................................        1,530          980        1,267
         Deferred taxes and income taxes payable............         (562)       1,892          968
         Other liabilities..................................          227           31        2,573
      Other.................................................          394         (899)      (2,523)
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------
Net cash provided by operating activities...................       18,720       16,549       11,126
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------
Cash flows from investing activities
  Expenditures for property.................................       (9,949)      (8,786)      (6,023)
  Special inter-company payment from EDS (Note 2)...........          500           --           --
  Investments in other marketable securities --
    acquisitions............................................      (27,431)     (17,794)     (14,236)
  Investments in other marketable securities --
    liquidations............................................       24,966       17,254       13,583
  Finance receivables -- acquisitions.......................     (155,477)    (163,033)    (156,580)
  Finance receivables -- liquidations.......................      120,253      134,265      136,151
  Proceeds from sales of finance receivables................       36,657       25,389       20,248
  Operating leases -- acquisitions..........................      (18,494)     (15,125)     (14,938)
  Operating leases -- liquidations..........................       10,507        6,268        4,698
  Other.....................................................          778         (495)         888
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------
Net cash used in investing activities.......................      (17,690)     (22,057)     (16,209)
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------
Cash flows from financing activities
  Net increase in loans payable.............................          660        6,227        3,900
  Increase in long-term debt................................       15,933       11,242       12,351
  Decrease in long-term debt................................      (12,810)      (9,580)     (14,111)
  Proceeds from the sale of minority interest in
    DIRECTV(R)..............................................          138           --           --
  Repurchases of common and preference stocks...............         (251)      (1,681)          --
  Proceeds from issuing common stocks.......................          480          453        1,017
  Cash dividends paid to stockholders.......................       (1,530)      (1,328)      (1,112)
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------
Net cash provided by financing activities...................        2,620        5,333        2,045
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash
  equivalents...............................................         (185)         146          (14)
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------
Net cash provided by (used in) continuing operations........        3,465          (29)      (3,052)
Net cash provided by (used in) discontinued operations......          103          193          (24)
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents........        3,568          164       (3,076)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year..........       10,495       10,331       13,407
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year................    $  14,063    $  10,495    $  10,331
                                                                =========    =========    =========
</TABLE>
 
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      II-6
<PAGE>   21
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
NOTE 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION
 
     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of General
Motors Corporation (hereinafter referred to as the Corporation) and domestic and
foreign subsidiaries that are more than 50% owned (Note 2), principally General
Motors Acceptance Corporation and Subsidiaries (GMAC) and Hughes Electronics
Corporation and Subsidiaries (Hughes) (collectively referred to as General
Motors or GM). General Motors' share of earnings or losses of associates, in
which at least 20% of the voting securities is owned, is included in the
consolidated operating results using the equity method of accounting (Note 3).
GM encourages reference to the GMAC Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period
ended December 31, 1996, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and
the Hughes consolidated financial statements included as Exhibit 99 to the GM
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 1996.
 
     Certain amounts for 1995 and 1994 have been reclassified to conform with
the 1996 classifications.
 
USE OF ESTIMATES IN THE PREPARATION OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect amounts reported therein. Due to the inherent
uncertainty involved in making estimates, actual results reported in future
periods may be based upon amounts that differ from those estimates.
 
REVENUE RECOGNITION
 
     Sales are generally recorded when products are shipped or when services are
rendered to independent dealers or other third parties. Provisions for normal
dealer sales incentives, returns and allowances, and GM Card rebates are made at
the time of vehicle sale. Costs related to special sales incentive programs are
recognized as reductions to sales when determinable.
 
     The Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) of the Financial Accounting Standards
Board reached a consensus in November 1995 on Issue No. 95-1, Revenue
Recognition on Sales with a Guaranteed Minimum Resale Value, and concluded that
a manufacturer must account for the sale of equipment as an operating lease if
it guarantees the resale value of the equipment to the purchaser. The
Corporation modified its revenue recognition policy on sales to daily rental car
companies, effective January 1, 1995, to conform to the consensus. Adoption of
this consensus resulted in an unfavorable cumulative effect of $52 million
after-tax, or $0.07 per share, attributable to $1 2/3 par value common stock.
 
     Sales under long-term contracts, primarily in the defense business, are
generally recorded using the percentage-of-completion (cost-to-cost) method of
accounting. Sales under certain long-term commercial contracts are recorded
using the units-of-delivery method. Profits expected to be realized on contracts
are based on estimates of total sales value and costs at completion. These
estimates are reviewed and revised periodically throughout the lives of the
contracts and adjustments to profits resulting from such revisions are recorded
in the accounting period in which the revisions are made. Estimated losses on
contracts are recorded in the period in which they are identified.
 
     Income on finance receivables in which the face amount includes the finance
charge (principally retail financing) is recorded over the terms of the
receivables using the interest method. Interest on finance receivables in which
the face amount represents the principal (including retail, wholesale, leasing
and lease financing, and term loans to dealers) is recorded using the simple
interest method. Certain loan origination costs are deferred and amortized to
financing revenue over the lives of the related loans using the interest method.
 
                                      II-7
<PAGE>   22
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

REVENUE RECOGNITION (CONCLUDED)

     Income from operating lease assets is recognized as scheduled payments
become due. Certain operating lease origination costs are deferred and amortized
to financing revenue over the lives of the related operating leases using the
straight-line method.
 
     Insurance premiums are earned on a basis related to coverage provided over
the terms of the policies. Commission costs and premium taxes incurred in
acquiring new business are deferred and amortized over the terms of the related
policies on the same basis as premiums are earned. The liability for losses
represents estimates from reported losses and also includes a provision for
unreported losses, based on past experience, net of the estimated salvage and
subrogation recoverable.
 
PRODUCT-RELATED EXPENSES
 
     Advertising and sales promotion, research and development, and other
product-related costs are charged to expense as incurred; provisions for
estimated expenses related to product warranty are made at the time the products
are sold. Advertising expense amounted to $3.4 billion in 1996, $3.1 billion in
1995, and $2.8 billion in 1994. Research and development expense was $8.9
billion in 1996, $8.2 billion in 1995, and $6.9 billion in 1994.
 
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION
 
     Depreciation is provided based on estimated useful lives of groups of
property generally using accelerated methods, which accumulate depreciation of
approximately two-thirds of the depreciable cost during the first half of the
estimated useful lives.
 
     Leasehold improvements are amortized over the period of the lease or the
life of the property, whichever is shorter, with the amortization applied
directly to the asset account. Depreciation on capitalized leases with a term of
five years or less is provided using the straight-line method; leases with a
term in excess of five years are depreciated using the foregoing accelerated
methods.
 
     Depreciation of vehicles and other equipment on operating leases or in
General Motors' use is provided generally on a straight-line basis. The
difference between the net book value and the proceeds of sale or salvage on
items disposed of is accounted for as a charge against or credit to the
provision for depreciation.
 
     Expenditures for special tools are amortized over their estimated useful
lives, primarily using the units of production method. Amortization is applied
directly to the asset account. Replacement of special tools for reasons other
than changes in products is charged directly to cost of sales.
 
     Depreciation and amortization expenses were as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ----------------------------
                                                                 1996       1995       1994
                                                                 ----       ----       ----
<S>                                                             <C>        <C>        <C>
Depreciation................................................    $ 8,825    $ 7,746    $6,547
Amortization of special tools...............................      2,856      3,212     2,901
Amortization of intangible assets (Note 10).................        159        255       197
                                                                -------    -------    ------
  Total.....................................................    $11,840    $11,213    $9,645
                                                                =======    =======    ======
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-8
<PAGE>   23
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
 
     Exchange and translation (losses) gains on an after-tax basis included in
consolidated net income in 1996, 1995, and 1994 amounted to $(380) million,
$(381) million, and $207 million, respectively.
 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
 
     Cash equivalents are defined as short-term, highly liquid investments with
original maturities of 90 days or less.
 
     Cash paid for interest and income taxes was as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                --------------------------
                                                                 1996      1995      1994
                                                                 ----      ----      ----
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>       <C>
Interest....................................................    $5,792    $5,927    $5,056
Income taxes................................................    $2,338    $  447    $1,510
</TABLE>
 
     With respect to noncash transactions, approximately 3 million Series C
Preference shares were converted into 45 million Class E shares in 1996 (Notes 2
and 19) and 173 million shares of Class E common stock were contributed to the
U.S. pension plans in 1995 (Notes 2 and 16). Also, General Motors entered into
capital lease agreements totaling $132 million, $267 million, and $25 million,
in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
 
ALLOWANCE FOR FINANCING LOSSES
 
     An allowance for financing losses is generally established during the
period in which receivables are acquired and is maintained in amounts considered
by management to be appropriate in relation to receivables outstanding. Losses
arising from the sale of repossessed collateral are charged to the allowance for
financing losses. Where repossession has not been effected, losses are charged
off as soon as it is determined that the collateral cannot be repossessed,
generally not more than 150 days after default.
 
REPOSSESSED PROPERTY AND IMPAIRED LOANS
 
     Losses arising from repossession of the collateral supporting doubtful
accounts and property supporting defaulted operating leases are recognized upon
repossession. Repossessed assets are recorded at the lower of historical cost or
estimated realizable value in other assets and the related adjustments to the
valuation allowance are included in operating expense.
 
     Nonretail finance receivables are reduced to the estimated fair value of
collateral when determined to be impaired or uncollectible.
 
CONTRACTS IN PROCESS
 
     Contracts in process are stated at costs incurred plus estimated profit,
less amounts billed to customers and advances and progress payments applied.
Engineering, tooling, manufacturing, and applicable overhead costs, including
administrative, research and development, and selling expenses are charged to
costs and expenses when incurred. Contracts in process also include estimates
relating to claims, requests for equitable adjustments and amounts withheld
pending negotiation or settlement with customers. Under certain contracts with
the U.S. Government, progress payments are received based on costs incurred on
the respective contracts. Title to the inventories related to such contracts
(included in contracts in process) vests with the U.S. Government.
 
                                      II-9
<PAGE>   24
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

VALUATION OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS
 
     Effective January 1, 1996, General Motors adopted Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived
Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of. In accordance with this
standard, General Motors periodically evaluates the carrying value of long-lived
assets to be held and used, including goodwill and other intangible assets, when
events and circumstances warrant such a review. The carrying value of a
long-lived asset is considered impaired when the anticipated undiscounted cash
flow from such asset is separately identifiable and is less than its carrying
value. In that event, a loss is recognized based on the amount by which the
carrying value exceeds the fair market value of the long-lived asset. Fair
market value is determined primarily using the anticipated cash flows discounted
at a rate commensurate with the risk involved. Losses on long-lived assets to be
disposed of are determined in a similar manner, except that fair market values
are reduced for the cost to dispose. The adoption of this new accounting
standard did not have a material effect on General Motors' consolidated
operating results or financial position.
 
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
 
     General Motors is party to a variety of foreign exchange, interest rate,
and commodity forward contracts and options entered into in connection with the
management of its exposure to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, interest
rates, and certain commodities prices. These financial exposures are managed in
accordance with corporate policies and procedures.
 
     Foreign exchange forward and option contracts are accounted for as hedges
to the extent they are designated, and are effective as, hedges of firm foreign
currency commitments. Additionally, certain foreign exchange option contracts
receive hedge accounting treatment to the extent such contracts hedge certain
anticipated foreign currency transactions. Other such foreign exchange contracts
and options are marked to market on a current basis.
 
     Interest rate swaps that are designated, and effective as, hedges of
underlying debt obligations are not marked to market, but are used to adjust
interest expense recognized over the lives of the underlying debt agreements.
Gains and losses from terminated contracts are deferred and amortized over the
remaining period of the original contract. Open interest rate swaps are reviewed
regularly to ensure that they remain effective as hedges of interest rate
exposure. Written options (including swaptions, interest rate caps and collars,
and swaps with embedded options) and other swaps that do not qualify for hedge
accounting are marked to market on a current basis.
 
     General Motors also enters into commodity forward and option contracts.
Since General Motors has the discretion to settle these transactions either in
cash or by taking physical delivery, these contracts are not considered
financial instruments for accounting purposes. Commodity forward contracts and
options are accounted for as hedges to the extent they are designated, and are
effective as, hedges of firm or anticipated commodity purchase contracts. Other
commodity forward contracts and options are marked to market on a current basis.
 
POSTEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
 
     Effective January 1, 1994, General Motors adopted SFAS No. 112, Employers'
Accounting for Postemployment Benefits. SFAS No. 112 requires accrual of the
costs of benefits provided to former or inactive employees after employment, but
before retirement. The unfavorable cumulative effect of adopting SFAS No. 112,
determined on a discounted basis, was $1.2 billion ($758 million after-tax), or
$751 million ($1.05 per share) attributable to $1 2/3 par value common stock and
$7 million ($0.08 per share) attributable to
 
                                      II-10
<PAGE>   25
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONCLUDED)

POSTEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS (CONCLUDED)

GM Class H common stock. The noncash charge was primarily related to General
Motors' extended-disability benefit program in the U.S., which under SFAS No.
112, is accrued on a service-driven basis.
 
ENVIRONMENTAL LIABILITIES
 
     General Motors recognizes environmental liabilities when a loss is probable
and can be reasonably estimated. Such liabilities are generally not subject to
insurance coverage. The cost of each environmental liability is estimated by
engineering, financial, and legal specialists within General Motors based on
current law. Such estimates are based primarily upon the estimated cost of
investigation and remediation required and the likelihood that other potentially
responsible parties (PRPs) will be able to fulfill their commitments at the
sites where General Motors may be jointly and severally liable. At sites being
addressed under the U.S. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
Liability Act or similar state laws (the Superfund Sites), General Motors
typically recognizes a loss once it has been named as a PRP and has determined
that some loss is probable and estimable. The Superfund Sites are primarily
multi-PRP sites not owned or operated by General Motors. For General Motors'
operating plants, an estimated liability is typically recognized either upon
completion of an environmental assessment or when General Motors proposes an
agreement with the appropriate regulatory agency to take action at a site. For
closed or closing plants owned by General Motors and properties being sold, an
estimated liability is typically recognized at the time the closure decision is
made or sale is recorded and is based on an environmental assessment of the
plant property.
 
     General Motors' estimates for environmental obligations are dependent
primarily on the nature and extent of historical information and physical data
relating to a contaminated site, the complexity of the site, uncertainty as to
what remedy and technology will be required, the outcome of discussions with
regulatory agencies and other PRPs at multi-party sites, the number and
financial viability of other PRPs, and the timing of expenditures; accordingly,
such estimates could change materially as General Motors periodically evaluates
and revises such estimates based on expenditures against established reserves
and the availability of additional information.
 
STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS
 
     Effective January 1, 1996, General Motors adopted SFAS No. 123, Accounting
for Stock-Based Compensation, and as permitted by this standard, will continue
to apply the recognition and measurement principles of Accounting Principles
Board (APB) Opinion No. 25 to its stock options and other stock-based employee
compensation awards. General Motors has determined that the differences between
SFAS No. 123 and APB Opinion No. 25, when applied to its options and awards, are
not significant in relation to reported net income and earnings per share.
 
LABOR FORCE
 
     General Motors, on a worldwide basis, has a concentration of its labor
supply in employees working under union collective bargaining agreements, which
represent approximately 86% of its hourly workforce and 8% of its salaried
workforce. Of these represented employees, approximately 86% of hourly and 37%
of salaried employees are working under agreements that will expire in 1999.
Although new national collective bargaining agreements were completed with the
United Auto Workers and Canadian Auto Workers during 1996, several local union
agreements have expired and currently are under negotiation. Certain of General
Motors suppliers also have represented work forces. Work stoppages by
represented employees could disrupt the assembly of vehicles.
 
                                      II-11
<PAGE>   26
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 2. EDS SPLIT-OFF
 
     On June 7, 1996 General Motors split-off Electronic Data Systems
Corporation (EDS) to General Motors Class E stockholders on a tax-free basis for
U.S. federal income tax purposes. Under the terms of the split-off, each share
of General Motors former Class E common stock was exchanged for one share of EDS
common stock. In addition, General Motors and EDS entered into a new 10-year
agreement, under which EDS will continue to be General Motors' principal
provider of information technology services and EDS made a special inter-company
payment of $500 million to General Motors.
 
     The financial data related to EDS prior to the June 7, 1996 split-off from
General Motors are classified as discontinued operations. The financial results
of EDS, including assets and liabilities, subsequent to the split-off are not
included in General Motors' consolidated financial statements.
 
     EDS systems and other contracts revenues from outside customers included in
income from discontinued operations totaled $4.3 billion, $8.5 billion, and $6.4
billion for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
Income from discontinued operations of $10 million, $900 million, and $793
million for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994, is reported net
of income tax expense of $14 million, $528 million, and $462 million,
respectively.
 
     Prior to the split-off, General Motors approved certain EDS actions to
maintain and improve operating efficiencies and accelerate its move to
"user-centered" computing. As a result, income from discontinued operations for
1996 includes a one-time charge of $328 million after-taxes related to these
actions.
 
     Income from discontinued operations for 1996 also includes split-off
expenses attributable to $1 2/3 par value common stock of $15 million
after-taxes or $0.02 per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock. Income from
discontinued operations for 1995 and 1994 includes $39 million, $0.05 per share
of $1 2/3 par value common stock, and $29 million, $0.04 per share of $1 2/3 par
value common stock, respectively, of expense associated with purchase accounting
adjustments made at the time of General Motors' purchase of EDS.
 
     The net assets of EDS were as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              DECEMBER 31,
                                                                  1995
                                                              ------------
<S>                                                           <C>
Current assets..............................................    $ 4,382
Property and equipment -- net...............................      3,319
Operating and other assets..................................      3,208
Current liabilities.........................................     (3,261)
Deferred income taxes.......................................       (740)
Notes payable...............................................     (1,853)
                                                                -------
     Net assets of discontinued operations..................    $ 5,055
                                                                =======
</TABLE>
 
     General Motors no longer owns the outstanding shares of EDS and,
accordingly, General Motors' consolidated balance sheet reflects decreased
stockholders' equity and liabilities as well as decreased assets. The split-off
resulted in an overall reduction in General Motors' consolidated net worth of
$4.5 billion at June 7, 1996, including the effect of the $500 million special
inter-company payment from EDS.
 
                                      II-12
<PAGE>   27
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 3. OTHER INCOME AND OTHER DEDUCTIONS
 
     Other income and other deductions included the following (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ------------------------
                                                               1996     1995     1994
                                                               ----     ----     ----
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>      <C>
Other income
  Nonfinancing interest.....................................  $1,679   $1,586   $1,389
  Insurance premiums........................................     947      867      874
  Claims, commissions, and grants...........................     670      604      467
  Equity in net earnings of associates......................     129      281      232
  Income from sales of receivables programs.................     625      744      690
  Mortgage servicing and processing fees....................     489      375      209
  Gain on sale of interest in DIRECTV(R)(1).................     120       --       --
  Gain on sale of Avis, Inc. preferred stock(2).............     105       --       --
  Other.....................................................   1,290      485      459
                                                              ------   ------   ------
     Total other income.....................................  $6,054   $4,942   $4,320
                                                              ======   ======   ======
Other deductions
  Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses.............  $  622   $  621   $  750
  Provision for financing losses............................     669      449      177
  Loss on sale of facilities(3).............................     253       --       --
  Loss on sale of NCRS' net assets(4).......................      --      148       --
  Other.....................................................     539      460      533
                                                              ------   ------   ------
     Total other deductions.................................  $2,083   $1,678   $1,460
                                                              ======   ======   ======
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) During 1996, the sale of a 2.5% interest in DIRECTV to AT&T resulted in a
    gain of $120 million ($72 million after-tax or $0.07 per share of $1 2/3 par
    value common stock and $0.18 per share of Class H common stock).
 
(2) The sale of GM's preferred stock interest in Avis, Inc. resulted in a gain
    of $105 million ($65 million after taxes or $0.09 per share of $1 2/3 par
    value common stock).
 
(3) In 1996, GM-NAO/Delphi sold four Delphi component facilities and GM-NAO's
    Oshawa die-management business, which resulted in a pre-tax loss of $253
    million ($157 million after-tax or $0.21 per share of $1 2/3 par value
    common stock).
 
(4) The Corporation sold National Car Rental System's (NCRS) net assets, which
    resulted in $163 million of net income or $0.22 per share of $1 2/3 par
    value common stock. The 1995 net income reflects $310 million of tax
    benefits related to the restructuring for NCRS in 1992. The tax benefits
    were not previously recorded due to the uncertainty of ultimate realization.
 
NOTE 4. MARKETABLE AND OTHER SECURITIES
 
     Effective January 1, 1994, General Motors adopted SFAS No. 115, Accounting
for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities, which resulted in a $241
million after-tax increase in stockholders' equity. Under SFAS No. 115, debt and
equity securities with readily determinable fair values are classified as
trading, available-for-sale or held-to-maturity.
 
     Marketable securities held by General Motors are classified as
available-for-sale, except for certain mortgage related securities of GMAC,
which were classified as trading securities. The aggregate excess of fair value
over cost, net of related income taxes, for available-for-sale securities is
included as a separate
 
                                      II-13
<PAGE>   28
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 4. MARKETABLE AND OTHER SECURITIES (CONCLUDED)

component of stockholders' equity. The excess of fair value over cost for
trading securities is included in income on a current basis. General Motors
determines cost on the specific identification basis.
 
     Investments in marketable securities were as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      December 31, 1996
                                                          -----------------------------------------
                                                                    Fair    Unrealized   Unrealized
                                                           Cost    Value      Gains        Losses
                    Type of Security                       ----    -----    ----------   ----------
<S>                                                       <C>      <C>      <C>          <C>
Bonds, notes, and other securities
  United States government and governmental agencies and
     authorities........................................  $1,702   $1,705      $  5         $ (2)
  States, municipalities, and political subdivisions....   1,573    1,648        85          (10)
  Mortgage-backed securities............................      62       64         2           --
  Other.................................................   3,410    3,441        40           (9)
                                                          ------   ------      ----         ----
Total debt securities available for sale................   6,747    6,858       132          (21)
  Mortgage-backed securities held for trading
     purposes...........................................     697      697        --           --
                                                          ------   ------      ----         ----
Total debt securities...................................   7,444    7,555       132          (21)
Equity securities.......................................     384      799       430          (15)
                                                          ------   ------      ----         ----
     Total investment in securities.....................  $7,828   $8,354      $562         $(36)
                                                          ======   ======      ====         ====
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      December 31, 1995
                                                          -----------------------------------------
                                                                    Fair    Unrealized   Unrealized
                                                           Cost    Value      Gains        Losses
                    Type of Security                       ----    -----    ----------   ----------
<S>                                                       <C>      <C>      <C>          <C>
Bonds, notes, and other securities
  United States government and governmental agencies and
     authorities........................................  $  529   $  541      $ 12         $ --
  States, municipalities, and political subdivisions....   1,721    1,825       113           (9)
  Mortgage-backed securities............................      77       79         3           (1)
  Other.................................................   1,990    2,043        54           (1)
                                                          ------   ------      ----         ----
Total debt securities available for sale................   4,317    4,488       182          (11)
  Mortgage-backed securities held for trading
     purposes...........................................     485      485        --           --
                                                          ------   ------      ----         ----
Total debt securities...................................   4,802    4,973       182          (11)
Equity securities.......................................     336      752       428          (12)
                                                          ------   ------      ----         ----
     Total investment in securities.....................  $5,138   $5,725      $610         $(23)
                                                          ======   ======      ====         ====
</TABLE>
 
     Debt securities totaling $1.8 billion mature within one year, $2.8 billion
mature after one through five years, $1.4 billion mature in after five years
through 10 years, and $1.5 billion mature after 10 years.
 
     Proceeds from sales and maturities of marketable securities totaled $5.7
billion in 1996, $6.2 billion in 1995, and $2.4 billion in 1994. The gross gains
and (losses) related to sales of marketable securities were $236 million and
$(33) million, $118 million and $(29) million, and $96 million and $(43) million
in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
 
     Other securities classified as cash equivalents were $13.5 billion and $9.8
billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively, and consisted primarily of
commercial paper, repurchase agreements, and certificates of deposit.
 
                                      II-14
<PAGE>   29
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 5. FINANCE RECEIVABLES -- NET
 
     Finance receivables-net included the following (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ------------------
                                                                 1996       1995
                                                                 ----       ----
<S>                                                             <C>        <C>
U.S.
  Retail....................................................    $26,867    $26,980
  Wholesale.................................................     13,826     16,190
  Leasing and lease financing...............................      1,139      1,327
  Term loans to dealers and others..........................      3,314      3,656
                                                                -------    -------
     Total U.S..............................................     45,146     48,153
                                                                -------    -------
Canada, Mexico and International
  Retail....................................................      8,586      8,651
  Wholesale.................................................      5,725      5,506
  Leasing and lease financing...............................      2,007      1,733
  Term loans to dealers and others..........................        555        493
                                                                -------    -------
     Total Canada, Mexico and International.................     16,873     16,383
                                                                -------    -------
          Total finance receivables.........................     62,019     64,536
Less -- Unearned income.....................................     (3,547)    (3,922)
    -- Allowance for financing losses.......................       (922)      (808)
                                                                -------    -------
          Total finance receivables -- net..................    $57,550    $59,806
                                                                =======    =======
</TABLE>
 
     The aggregate amount of total finance receivables maturing in each of the
five years following December 31, 1996 is as follows: 1997 - $35.6 billion; 1998
- - $11.2 billion; 1999 - $8.9 billion; 2000 - $4.3 billion; 2001 - $1.6 billion;
and 2002 and thereafter - $448 million.
 
     GMAC participates in various sales of receivables programs and sold retail
finance receivables through special purpose subsidiaries with principal
aggregating $2.2 billion in 1996 and $3.6 billion in 1995. These subsidiaries
generally retain a subordinated investment of no greater than 7.5% of the total
receivables pool and market the remaining portion. These subordinated
investments absorb losses related to sold receivables to the extent that such
losses are greater than the excess cash flows from those receivables and cash
reserves related to the sale transaction. Pre-tax gains relating to such sales
recorded in other income (excluding limited recourse loss provisions that
generally have been provided at the time the contracts were originally acquired)
amounted to $35 million in 1996, $38 million in 1995, and $31 million in 1994.
GMAC continues to service these receivables for a fee and earns other related
ongoing income. GMAC's retail finance receivable servicing portfolio amounted to
$4.3 billion and $6.6 billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
     GMAC also sold wholesale receivables that it continues to service for a
fee. The wholesale receivables servicing portfolio totaled $5.4 billion and $4.7
billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Additionally, GMAC is
committed to sell eligible wholesale receivables, on a revolving basis, arising
in certain dealer accounts.
 
                                      II-15
<PAGE>   30
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 6. INVENTORIES
 
     Inventories included the following (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ------------------
                                                                 1996       1995
                                                                 ----       ----
<S>                                                             <C>        <C>
Productive material, work in process, and supplies..........    $ 6,590    $ 6,570
Finished product, service parts, etc........................      5,308      4,778
                                                                -------    -------
  Total inventories (less allowances).......................    $11,898    $11,348
                                                                =======    =======
Increase in LIFO inventories if valued at FIFO..............    $ 2,346    $ 2,424
</TABLE>
 
     Inventories are stated generally at cost, which is not in excess of market.
The cost of substantially all U.S. inventories other than the inventories of
Saturn Corporation (Saturn) and Hughes is determined by the last-in, first-out
(LIFO) method. The cost of non-U.S., Saturn, and Hughes inventories is
determined generally by either the first-in, first-out (FIFO) or average cost
methods.
 
NOTE 7. INCOME TAXES
 
     The provision for income taxes was estimated as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ---------------------------
                                                                 1996      1995       1994
                                                                 ----      ----       ----
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>        <C>
Income taxes estimated to be payable (refundable) currently
  U.S. federal..............................................    $ (357)   $(1,000)   $  266
  Foreign...................................................     1,607      1,314       862
  U.S. state and local......................................       197         16        37
                                                                ------    -------    ------
     Total payable currently................................     1,447        330     1,165
                                                                ------    -------    ------
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense -- net
  U.S. federal..............................................       477      2,007       560
  Foreign...................................................      (147)       (88)      455
  U.S. state and local......................................       (15)       136       108
                                                                ------    -------    ------
     Total deferred.........................................       315      2,055     1,123
                                                                ------    -------    ------
Investment tax credits......................................       (39)       (69)      (56)
                                                                ------    -------    ------
          Total income taxes................................    $1,723    $ 2,316    $2,232
                                                                ======    =======    ======
</TABLE>
 
     Deferred income tax assets and liabilities for 1996 and 1995 reflect the
impact of temporary differences between amounts of assets and liabilities for
financial reporting purposes and the bases of such assets and liabilities as
measured by tax laws. The net deferred tax asset in the U.S. was $17.5 billion
and $18.4 billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
                                      II-16
<PAGE>   31
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 7. INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)

     Temporary differences and carryforwards that gave rise to deferred tax
assets and liabilities included the following (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                             DECEMBER 31,
                                                           ------------------------------------------------
                                                                    1996                      1995
                                                           ----------------------    ----------------------
                                                                DEFERRED TAX              DEFERRED TAX
                                                           ----------------------    ----------------------
                                                           ASSETS     LIABILITIES    ASSETS     LIABILITIES
                                                           ------     -----------    ------     -----------
<S>                                                        <C>        <C>            <C>        <C>
Postretirement benefits other than pensions............    $16,392      $    --      $15,812      $    --
Minimum pension liability adjustment...................      2,036           --        2,927           --
Employee benefit plans.................................      1,789        6,575        2,029        6,563
Policy and warranty reserves...........................      2,293           --        2,085           --
Sales and product reserves.............................      1,505           12        1,549          143
Plant closings and restructuring reserves..............        549           --          962           --
Profits on long-term contracts.........................        371          142          384          204
Alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards...........        625           --          730           --
Depreciation...........................................        486        4,682          595        4,775
Capitalized research and experimentation...............        370           --          571           --
U.S. state net operating loss carryforwards............        494           --          478           --
Financing losses.......................................        323           --          298           --
Tax credit carryforwards...............................        396           --          537           --
Lease transactions.....................................         --        2,415           --        2,255
Tax on unremitted profits..............................         --          576           --          468
Other U.S..............................................      5,932        2,802        5,930        2,962
Miscellaneous foreign..................................      1,525          492        1,141          318
                                                           -------      -------      -------      -------
  Subtotal.............................................     35,086       17,696       36,028       17,688
Valuation allowances...................................     (1,076)          --       (1,102)          --
                                                           -------      -------      -------      -------
     Total deferred taxes..............................    $34,010      $17,696      $34,926      $17,688
                                                           =======      =======      =======      =======
</TABLE>
 
     Realization of the net deferred tax assets is dependent on future reversals
of existing taxable temporary differences and adequate future taxable income,
exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards. Although
realization is not assured, management believes that it is more likely than not
that the net deferred tax assets will be realized. The amount of the net
deferred tax assets considered realizable; however, could be reduced in the near
term if actual future taxable income is lower than estimated, or if there are
differences in the timing or amount of future reversals of existing taxable
temporary differences. The valuation allowances (decreased) increased by $(26)
million and $139 million in 1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
     Annual tax provisions include amounts considered sufficient to pay
assessments that may result from examination of prior year tax returns; however,
the amount ultimately paid upon resolution of issues raised may differ
materially from the amount accrued. The alternative minimum tax credit can be
carried forward indefinitely. The U.S. state net operating loss carryforwards
will expire in the years 1997 - 2010 if not utilized; however, a substantial
portion will not expire until after the year 2000. The tax credit carryforwards
will expire in the years 2000 - 2010 if not utilized.
 
     Provisions are made for estimated U.S. and foreign income taxes, less
available tax credits and deductions, which may be incurred on the remittance of
the Corporation's share of subsidiaries' undistributed earnings not deemed to be
permanently invested. Taxes have not been provided on foreign subsidiaries'
earnings, which are deemed essentially permanently reinvested, of approximately
$8.7 billion at December 31, 1996 and $7.3 billion at December 31, 1995.
Quantification of the deferred tax liability, if any, associated with
permanently reinvested earnings is not practicable.
 
                                      II-17
<PAGE>   32
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 7. INCOME TAXES (CONCLUDED)

     Income from continuing operations before income taxes included the
following (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                --------------------------
                                                                 1996      1995      1994
                                                                 ----      ----      ----
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>       <C>
U.S. income.................................................    $1,747    $3,621    $2,218
Foreign income..............................................     4,929     4,728     4,880
                                                                ------    ------    ------
  Total.....................................................    $6,676    $8,349    $7,098
                                                                ======    ======    ======
</TABLE>
 
     A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes compared with the
amounts at the U.S. federal statutory rate was as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                --------------------------
                                                                 1996      1995      1994
                                                                 ----      ----      ----
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>       <C>
Tax at U.S. federal statutory income tax rate...............    $2,336    $2,922    $2,484
U.S. net operating loss carryback...........................        (4)     (190)       --
U.S. state and local income taxes...........................       122       113       110
Investment tax credits amortized............................       (39)      (69)      (56)
U.S. tax effect of foreign earnings and dividends...........        40       292       127
Foreign rates other than 35%................................      (285)     (220)     (473)
Taxes on unremitted earnings of subsidiaries................        49       139       123
Effect of equity in net earnings of associates..............       (45)      (98)      (81)
Sale of NCRS' net assets....................................        --      (258)       --
Tax effect of the 1995 contribution of Class E common stock
  to the U.S. hourly pension plan...........................      (245)       --        --
Research and experimentation credits........................      (165)      (74)       --
Other adjustments...........................................       (41)     (241)       (2)
                                                                ------    ------    ------
  Consolidated income tax...................................    $1,723    $2,316    $2,232
                                                                ======    ======    ======
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 8. EQUIPMENT ON OPERATING LEASES AND LEASE COMMITMENTS
 
     The value of General Motors' net equipment on operating leases is based on
estimated residual values of the leased equipment, which are calculated on the
lease inception dates. Realization of the residual values is dependent on
General Motors' future ability to market the equipment under then prevailing
market conditions. Although realization is not assured, management believes it
is more likely than not that the estimated residual values will be realized.
 
     The lease payments to be received related to equipment on operating leases
maturing in each of the five years following December 31, 1996 are as follows:
1997-$5.8 billion; 1998-$3.6 billion; 1999-$1.4 billion; 2000-$251 million; and
2001-$112 million.
 
     General Motors had the following minimum commitments under noncancelable
operating leases having terms in excess of one year primarily for real property:
1997-$715 million; 1998-$596 million; 1999-$596 million; 2000-$584 million;
2001-$479 million; and $2,029 million in 2002 and thereafter. Certain of the
leases contain escalation clauses and renewal or purchase options. Rental
expenses under operating leases were $853 million in 1996, $769 million in 1995,
and $816 million in 1994.
 
                                      II-18
<PAGE>   33
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 9. REAL ESTATE, PLANTS, AND EQUIPMENT
 
     Real estate, plants, and equipment included the following (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  ESTIMATED         DECEMBER 31,
                                                                   USEFUL        ------------------
                                                                LIVES (YEARS)     1996       1995
                                                                -------------     ----       ----
<S>                                                             <C>              <C>        <C>
Land........................................................           --        $   720    $   647
Land improvements...........................................        20-40          1,888      1,874
Leasehold improvements -- less amortization.................         8-10            297        269
Buildings...................................................        29-45         13,433     13,204
Machinery and equipment.....................................         3-27         46,629     45,635
Furniture and office equipment..............................         5-20          1,144      1,073
Capitalized leases..........................................         5-40          1,441      1,403
Construction in progress....................................           --          4,218      3,310
                                                                                 -------    -------
     Total real estate, plants, and equipment...............                     $69,770    $67,415
                                                                                 =======    =======
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 10. INTANGIBLE ASSETS -- NET
 
     Intangible assets -- net included the following (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ------------------
                                                                 1996       1995
                                                                 ----       ----
<S>                                                             <C>        <C>
Pensions (Note 16)..........................................    $ 8,969    $ 6,501
Intangible assets relating to acquisition of Hughes.........      2,723      2,846
Goodwill relating to all other acquisitions.................        999        926
                                                                -------    -------
     Total intangible assets -- net.........................    $12,691    $10,273
                                                                =======    =======
</TABLE>
 
     Intangible assets arising from the acquisition of Hughes relate to patents
and related technology and other intangible assets that were originally recorded
in 1985 and are principally amortized over 40 years. Goodwill resulting from
other acquisitions is amortized over periods not exceeding 40 years.
 
                                      II-19
<PAGE>   34
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 11. NOTES AND LOANS PAYABLE
 
     Notes and loans payable were as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      DECEMBER 31,
                                                               WEIGHTED AVERAGE    ------------------
                                                               INTEREST RATE(1)     1996       1995
                                                               ----------------     ----       ----
<S>                                                            <C>                 <C>        <C>
Notes and loans
  Payable within one year
     Current portion of long-term debt.....................          6.8%          $12,469    $12,868
     Commercial paper(2)...................................          5.8%           22,678     21,914
     All other(2)..........................................          5.5%           12,079     11,618
  Payable beyond one year
     1997..................................................           --                --     11,797
     1998..................................................          6.6%           10,318      6,443
     1999..................................................          6.8%            7,860      4,545
     2000..................................................          7.7%            5,048      3,516
     2001..................................................          6.8%            4,400      1,784
     2002 and after........................................          7.5%           11,414      7,858
Unamortized discount.......................................                           (966)    (1,121)
                                                                                   -------    -------
          Total notes and loans payable....................                        $85,300    $81,222
                                                                                   =======    =======
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) The weighted average interest rate for 1996 includes the impact of interest
    rate swap agreements.
 
(2) The weighted average interest rate for commercial paper and all other
    short-term borrowings was 5.9% and 6.6%, respectively, at December 31, 1995.
 
     After consideration of foreign currency swaps, the above 1996 maturities,
payable beyond one year, include $6.6 billion in currencies other than the U.S.
Dollar, primarily the Canadian Dollar ($2.1 billion), the German Mark ($1.5
billion), the British Pound ($1.1 billion) and the Australian Dollar ($1
billion).
 
     At December 31, 1996 and 1995, notes and loans payable include $70 billion
and $67 billion of obligations with fixed interest rates and $15 billion and $14
billion of obligations with variable interest rates (predominantly based on the
London Interbank Offering Rate or LIBOR), after considering the impact of
interest rate swap agreements.
 
     To achieve its desired balance, within prescribed limits, between fixed and
variable rate debt, General Motors has entered into interest rate swap, cap,
collar, option, and swaption agreements. The notional amounts of such agreements
as of December 31, 1996 were approximately $13.2 billion ($6 billion pay
variable and $7.2 billion pay fixed), $3.9 billion, $50 million, $6 billion, and
$891 million, respectively. The notional amounts of such agreements as of
December 31, 1995 were approximately $7.1 billion ($3.6 billion pay variable and
$3.5 billion pay fixed), $340 million, $50 million, $nil, and $270 million,
respectively.
 
     General Motors and its subsidiaries maintain substantial bank lines of
credit with various banks that totaled $53.7 billion at December 31, 1996, of
which $32.4 billion represented short-term credit facilities and $21.3 billion
represented long-term credit facilities. At December 31, 1995, bank lines of
credit totaled $50.9 billion, of which $30.1 billion represented short-term
credit facilities and $20.8 billion represented long-term credit facilities. The
unused short-term and long-term portions of the credit lines totaled $21.9
billion and $19.2 billion at December 31, 1996, compared with $20.6 billion and
$18.8 billion at December 31, 1995. Certain bank lines of credit contain
covenants with which the Corporation and applicable subsidiaries were in
compliance at December 31, 1996.
 
     Certain bank lines of credit are supported by bank commitment fees and
compensating balances. Compensating balances, which are not subject to
withdrawal restrictions, are maintained at a level required to
 
                                      II-20
<PAGE>   35
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 11. NOTES AND LOANS PAYABLE (CONCLUDED)

provide the same income that a fee would generate. Total commitment and
facilities fees incurred by General Motors amounted to $36 million in 1996, $44
million in 1995, and $59 million in 1994. Total compensating balances maintained
by General Motors in lieu of commitment fees averaged $25 million and $12
million in 1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
     Total interest cost incurred in 1996, 1995, and 1994 amounted to $5.7
billion, $5.2 billion, and $5.4 billion, respectively, of which $49 million, $50
million, and $33 million related to certain real estate, plants, and equipment
that were capitalized in those years.
 
NOTE 12. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT
 
     General Motors is a party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet
risk. These financial instruments are used in the normal course of business to
manage the Corporation's exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and foreign
exchange rates, and to meet the financing needs of its customers.
 
     The primary classes of derivatives used by General Motors are foreign
exchange forward contracts and options, interest rate swaps and options, and
forward contracts to purchase or sell mortgages or mortgage-backed securities.
Those instruments involve, to varying degrees, market risk, as the instruments
are subject to rate and price fluctuations, and elements of credit risk in the
event a counterparty should default. Credit risk is managed through the approval
and periodic monitoring of financially sound counterparties.
 
     Derivative transactions are entered to hedge underlying business exposures.
Market risk in these instruments is offset by opposite movements in the
underlying exposure. Cash receipts or payments on these contracts normally occur
at maturity, or for interest rate swap agreements, at periodic contractually
defined intervals.
 
FOREIGN EXCHANGE FORWARD CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS
 
     General Motors is an international corporation with operations in over 50
countries and has foreign currency exposures at these operations related to
buying, selling, and financing in currencies other than the local currency.
General Motors' most significant foreign currency exposures relate to Canada,
Mexico, Western European countries (primarily Germany, United Kingdom, Spain,
Italy, Belgium and France), Australia, Japan, and Brazil. The magnitude of these
exposures significantly varies over time depending upon the strength of local
automotive markets and sourcing decisions.
 
     General Motors enters into agreements by which it seeks to manage certain
of its foreign exchange exposures in accordance with established policy
guidelines. These agreements primarily hedge cash flows such as debt, firm
commitments and anticipated transactions involving vehicles, components, fixed
assets, and subsidiary dividends. As a general practice, General Motors has not
hedged the foreign exchange exposure related to either the translation of
overseas earnings into U.S. dollars, or the translation of overseas equity
positions back to U.S. dollars. General Motors uses foreign exchange forward
contracts as well as purchased and written foreign exchange options. Foreign
exchange forward contracts are legal agreements between two parties to purchase
or to sell a foreign currency, for a price specified at the contract date, with
delivery and settlement in the future. Cross-currency swaps are included in this
category and relate to interest rate swaps in which the underlying notional
principal amounts are in different currencies.
 
     At December 31, 1996 and 1995, General Motors held foreign exchange forward
contracts of $8.3 billion and $10.9 billion (including cross-currency swaps of
$2.4 billion and $1.3 billion), respectively. At December 31, 1996 and 1995,
General Motors had entered into foreign exchange options of $3.5 billion and
$3.8 billion, respectively.
 
                                      II-21
<PAGE>   36
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 12. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

FOREIGN EXCHANGE FORWARD CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS (CONCLUDED)


     Deferred hedging gains on outstanding foreign exchange forward contracts
hedging firm commitments to purchase inventory or fixed assets totaled $14
million and $1 million at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Deferred
hedging losses on outstanding foreign exchange option contracts hedging firm and
anticipated transactions to purchase inventory or fixed assets totaled $15
million at December 31, 1996. Such deferred amounts on outstanding foreign
exchange forward and option contracts will be included in the cost of such
assets when purchased, and subsequently recognized in operations as part of the
basis of these assets. In the event the contract is terminated early or the
anticipated transaction is no longer likely to occur, the derivative is then
marked to market. Foreign exchange forward contracts, which hedge foreign
exchange exposures of anticipated inventory or fixed asset transactions, are
marked to market and recognized with other gains or losses on foreign exchange
transactions in the consolidated statement of income. General Motors' firm
commitments typically extend for periods of up to three years.
 
INTEREST RATE SWAPS AND OPTIONS
 
     General Motors' financing and cash management activities subject it to
market risk from exposure to changes in interest rates. General Motors has
entered into various financial instrument transactions to maintain the desired
level of exposure to the risk of interest rate fluctuations and to minimize
interest expense. To achieve this objective, General Motors will at times use
written options in the management of these exposures.
 
     In a limited number of cases, interest rate swaps are matched to the
anticipated roll-over of investments, wholesale assets or debt, and are executed
over terms of up to five years on a portfolio basis to achieve specific interest
rate management objectives. Swaps are also matched to operating lease payments
where interest rate exposure exists. The differential paid or received on such
swaps is recorded as an adjustment to expense or income over the term of the
underlying agreement or matched portfolio.
 
     Interest rate swaps are contractual agreements between General Motors and
another party to exchange fixed and floating interest rate payments periodically
over the life of the agreements without the exchange of underlying principal
amounts. Interest rate options, including swaptions and interest rate caps and
floors may result in the future exchange of interest payments if market interest
rates reach certain levels. At December 31, 1996 and 1995, the total notional
amount of such agreements with off-balance-sheet risk was $30.8 billion and
$15.9 billion, respectively.
 
     Interest rate swaps used to hedge an underlying debt obligation are not
marked to market, but are used to adjust interest expense recognized over the
life of the underlying debt agreement. Gains and losses on terminated interest
rate swaps are deferred and recognized as a yield adjustment on the underlying
debt. Unamortized net gains (losses) on interest rate swaps totaled
approximately $33 million and $(22) million at December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively. Written options, including those embedded in interest rate swaps,
written interest rate caps and written swaptions, and interest rate swaps that
do not meet settlement accounting criteria are marked to market with related
gains and losses recognized in income on a current basis.
 
MORTGAGE CONTRACTS
 
     GMAC has also entered into contracts to purchase and sell mortgages at
specific future dates and has entered into certain exchange traded futures and
option contracts to reduce exposure to interest rate risk. At December 31, 1996
and 1995, commitments to sell mortgage loans totaled $1.5 billion and $2.2
billion, respectively and commitments to purchase or originate mortgage loans
totaled $2.6 billion and $2.9 billion, respectively. GMAC's exchange traded
futures and option contracts, which are used to hedge mortgage loans held for
sale, had notional values of $2.4 billion and $100 million at December 31, 1996
and 1995, respectively.
 
                                      II-22
<PAGE>   37
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 12. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT (CONCLUDED)

MORTGAGE CONTRACTS (CONCLUDED)

Gains and losses on derivatives, including exchange traded futures and option
contracts, used to hedge interest rate risk associated with rate locked funding
commitments and mortgage loans held for sale, are deferred and considered in the
reporting of the underlying mortgages on a lower of cost or market basis.
 
     The notional values of derivatives used to hedge price and interest rate
risk associated with mortgage related securities totaled $4.8 billion and $66
million at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Gains and losses associated
with these instruments are recognized in the current period on a mark-to-market
basis. Derivatives used to hedge mortgage servicing rights had notional values
of $11 billion and $5 billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Gains
and losses on such contracts are recorded as an adjustment to amortization
expense.
 
     GMAC has also entered into interest rate swaps in an effort to stabilize
short-term borrowing costs and to maintain a minimum return on certain mortgage
loans held for investment. Amounts received or paid under such interest rate
swaps are recorded as an adjustment to interest expense. At December 31, 1996
and 1995, the notional values of such instruments totaled $327 million and $133
million, respectively.
 
CREDIT RISK
 
     The forward contracts, swaps, options, and lines of credit previously
discussed contain an element of risk that the counterparties may be unable to
meet the terms of the agreements. However, General Motors minimizes such risk
exposure for forward contracts, swaps and options by limiting the counterparties
to major international banks and financial institutions who meet established
credit guidelines and by limiting the amount of its risk exposure with any one
bank or financial institution. Management also reduces its credit risk for
unused lines of credit by applying the same credit policies in making
commitments as it does for extending loans. Management does not expect to incur
any losses as a result of counterparty default. General Motors generally does
not require or place collateral for these financial instruments, except for the
lines of credit it extends.
 
     General Motors has business activities with customers, dealers, and
associates around the world. The Corporation's receivables from, and guarantees
to, such parties are well diversified, and when warranted, are secured by
collateral. Consequently, in management's opinion, no significant concentration
of credit risk exists for General Motors.
 
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
 
     In accordance with the requirements of SFAS No. 107, Disclosures about Fair
Value of Financial Instruments and SFAS No. 119, Disclosures about Derivative
Financial Instruments and Fair Value of Financial Instruments, General Motors
has provided the following fair value estimates and information about valuation
methodologies. The estimated fair value amounts have been determined using
available market information or other appropriate valuation methodologies.
However, considerable judgment is required in interpreting market data to
develop estimates of fair value; therefore, the estimates are not necessarily
indicative of the amounts that could be realized or would be paid in a current
market exchange. The effect of using different market assumptions and/or
estimation methodologies may be material to the estimated fair value amounts.
 
     Fair value information presented herein is based on information available
at December 31, 1996 and 1995. Although management is not aware of any factors
that would significantly affect the estimated fair value amounts, such amounts
have not been updated since those dates and; therefore, the current estimates of
fair value at dates subsequent to December 31, 1996 and 1995 may differ
significantly from these amounts. The
 
                                      II-23
<PAGE>   38
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)

estimated fair value of financial instruments held by General Motors, for which
it is practicable to estimate that value, are set forth below:
 
     Book and fair values of financial instruments were as follows (in
millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        DECEMBER 31,
                                                        --------------------------------------------
                                                                1996                    1995
                                                        --------------------    --------------------
                                                          BOOK        FAIR        BOOK        FAIR
                                                         VALUE       VALUE       VALUE       VALUE
                                                         -----       -----       -----       -----
<S>                                                     <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Assets
  Cash and marketable securities....................    $ 22,262    $ 22,262    $ 16,018    $ 16,018
  Finance receivables -- net........................      57,545      57,584      59,789      60,171
  Accounts and notes receivable -- net..............       6,485       6,485       6,936       6,936
  Other assets......................................       7,191       7,294       5,782       5,809
Liabilities
  Accounts payable..................................     (14,221)    (14,221)    (12,685)    (12,685)
  Notes and loans payable
     Payable within one year........................     (47,024)    (47,080)    (46,056)    (46,134)
     Payable beyond one year........................     (38,276)    (41,113)    (35,166)    (39,095)
Other liabilities...................................        (624)       (635)       (623)       (640)
</TABLE>
 
     The prior table excludes the book value and fair value of financial
instrument derivatives which were as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     FAIR VALUE OF OPEN CONTRACTS(1) AT
                                                                                DECEMBER 31,
                                                               ----------------------------------------------
                                                                       1996                     1995
                                                               ---------------------    ---------------------
                                                                ASSET      LIABILITY     ASSET      LIABILITY
                                                               POSITION    POSITION     POSITION    POSITION
                                                               --------    ---------    --------    ---------
<S>                                                            <C>         <C>          <C>         <C>
Foreign exchange forward contracts(2)(3)...................      $190        $(410)       $284        $(163)
Foreign exchange options...................................        38          (11)         28          (29)
Interest rate swaps........................................       107         (152)        181         (133)
Interest rate options......................................         1          (12)         --          (42)
Mortgage contracts.........................................        40          (34)         46          (43)
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) The related asset (liability) recorded on the balance sheet for foreign
    exchange forward contracts, foreign exchange options, interest rate swaps,
    and interest rate options totaled $(24) million, $42 million, $(57) million,
    and $(11) million, respectively, at December 31, 1996 and $69 million, $(1)
    million, $(21) million, and $(46) million, respectively, at December 31,
    1995. The related asset recorded on the balance sheet for mortgage contracts
    was $12 million and $5 million at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
(2) Foreign exchange forward contracts include certain derivatives with both
    foreign exchange and interest rate exposures which had a fair value of $(94)
    million and $75 million at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
(3) The loss in fair value on the open foreign exchange forward contracts in
    1996 was largely offset by a gain in the fair value of the related
    underlying debt instruments.
 
                                      II-24
<PAGE>   39
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONTINUED)

     The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value
of each class of financial instrument:
 
CASH AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES
 
     The fair value of cash equivalents and marketable securities is determined
principally based on quoted market prices.
 
FINANCE RECEIVABLES
 
     The fair value is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using
applicable spreads to approximate current rates applicable to each category of
finance receivables. The carrying value of wholesale receivables and other
receivables whose interest rates adjust on a short-term basis with applicable
market indices (generally the prime rate) are assumed to approximate fair value
either due to their short maturities or due to the interest rate adjustment
feature.
 
ACCOUNTS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE AND ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
 
     For receivables and payables with short maturities the book values
approximate market values.
 
OTHER ASSETS AND OTHER LIABILITIES
 
     Other assets reported at December 31, 1996 and 1995 include various
financial instruments (e.g., long-term receivables and certain investments)
having a fair value based on discounted cash flows, market quotations, and other
appropriate valuation techniques. The fair values of retained subordinated
interests in trusts and excess servicing assets (net of deferred costs) are
derived by discounting expected cash flows using current market rates. Estimated
values of Industrial Development Bonds, included in other liabilities and
deferred credits, are based on quoted market prices for the same or similar
issues.
 
NOTES AND LOANS PAYABLE
 
     The fair value of the debt payable within one year is determined by using
quoted market prices, if available, or calculating the estimated value of each
bank loan, note, or debenture in the portfolio at the applicable rate in effect.
Commercial paper, master notes, and demand notes have an original term of less
than 90 days and; therefore, the carrying amount of these liabilities is
considered fair value. Debt payable beyond one year has an estimated fair value
based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or based on the
current rates offered to General Motors for debt of similar remaining
maturities.
 
FOREIGN EXCHANGE FORWARD CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS
 
     The fair value of foreign exchange forward contracts is determined by using
current exchange rates. The fair value of foreign exchange options is estimated
using pricing models with indicative quotes obtained for the market variables.
 
INTEREST RATE SWAPS AND OPTIONS
 
     The fair value of interest rate swaps, including contracts with
optionality, is estimated using pricing models based upon current market
interest rates. Exchange traded futures are valued at quoted market prices.
 
                                      II-25
<PAGE>   40
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONCLUDED)
MORTGAGE CONTRACTS
 
     The fair value of such contracts is estimated based upon the amount that
would be received or paid to terminate the contracts based on market prices of
similar financial instruments and current rates for mortgage loans.
 
UNUSED LINES OF CREDIT
 
     Because loans extended under these commitments are at market interest
rates, there is no significant fair value position related to the outstanding
commitments.
 
NOTE 14. POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS OTHER THAN PENSIONS
 
     General Motors maintains hourly and salaried benefit plans that provide
postretirement medical, dental, vision, and life insurance to most U.S. retirees
and eligible dependents. These benefits are funded as incurred from the general
assets of General Motors. SFAS No. 106, Employers' Accounting for Postretirement
Benefits Other Than Pensions, requires that the cost of such benefits be
recognized in the consolidated financial statements during the period employees
provide service to General Motors.
 
     Certain of the Corporation's non-U.S. subsidiaries have postretirement
plans, although most participants are covered by government sponsored or
administered programs. The postretirement cost of such programs generally is not
significant to General Motors.
 
     The components of non-pension postretirement benefit cost were as follows
(in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                --------------------------
                                                                 1996      1995      1994
                                                                 ----      ----      ----
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>       <C>
Benefits earned during the year.............................    $  668    $  617    $  955
Interest accrued on benefits earned in prior years..........     2,980     3,120     3,114
Termination, curtailment and settlement (gains) losses......        (3)       26      (233)
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses................        43        (7)      407
Amortization of prior service costs due to plan changes.....      (116)     (116)     (121)
                                                                ------    ------    ------
     Total non-pension postretirement benefit cost..........    $3,572    $3,640    $4,122
                                                                ======    ======    ======
</TABLE>
 
     The status of the plans at December 31 was as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 1996       1995
                                                                 ----       ----
<S>                                                             <C>        <C>
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (APBO)
  Current retirees..........................................    $23,498    $23,155
  Fully eligible active plan participants...................      6,427      5,296
  Other active plan participants............................     11,462     12,411
                                                                -------    -------
APBO........................................................     41,387     40,862
Unamortized prior service costs due to plan changes.........        679        795
Unamortized net amount resulting from changes in plan
  experience and
  actuarial assumptions.....................................      1,124        (61)
                                                                -------    -------
     Net postretirement benefit obligation..................    $43,190    $41,596
                                                                =======    =======
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-26
<PAGE>   41
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 14. POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS OTHER THAN PENSIONS (CONCLUDED)

     The principal assumptions used were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                1996    1995    1994
                                                                ----    ----    ----
<S>                                                             <C>     <C>     <C>
Weighted average discount rate..............................    7.8%    7.5%    8.8%
Weighted average rate of increase in future compensation
  levels related to
  pay-related life insurance................................    4.4%    4.3%    4.2%
Base weighted average health care cost trend rate(1)........    6.5%    6.5%    8.7%
Ultimate sustained weighted average health care cost trend
  rate in 2002(2)...........................................    5.0%    5.0%    5.5%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Current year trend rate assumed at beginning of year was adjusted to actual
    to determine year-end obligations.
 
(2) Rate remains at 6.5% through 1999 and then decreases on a linear basis
    through 2002, to the ultimate weighted average trend rate of 5.0%.
 
     A one percentage point increase in the assumed health care trend rate would
have increased the APBO by $4.3 billion at December 31, 1996 and increased the
aggregate service and interest cost components of non-pension postretirement
benefit expense for 1996 by $450 million. A one percentage point increase in the
weighted average discount rate would result in a $4.4 billion decrease in the
APBO at December 31, 1996.
 
     General Motors has disclosed in the consolidated financial statements
certain amounts associated with estimated future postretirement benefits other
than pensions and characterized such amounts as "accumulated postretirement
benefit obligations," "liabilities," or "obligations." Notwithstanding the
recording of such amounts and the use of these terms, General Motors does not
admit or otherwise acknowledge that such amounts or existing postretirement
benefit plans of General Motors (other than pensions) represent legally
enforceable liabilities of General Motors.
 
NOTE 15. OTHER LIABILITIES AND DEFERRED CREDITS
 
     Other liabilities and deferred credits included the following (in
millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ---------------------
                                                                 1996          1995
                                                                 ----          ----
<S>                                                             <C>           <C>
Warranties, dealer and customer allowances, claims,
  discounts, etc............................................    $13,702       $12,581
Customer deposits...........................................      6,658         7,325
Payrolls and employee benefits (excludes postemployment)....      4,568         4,138
Unpaid insurance losses, loss adjustment expenses and
  unearned insurance premiums...............................      3,020         2,922
Plant closings (excludes environmental).....................      1,397         2,612
Environmental cleanup.......................................        646           692
Postemployment benefits.....................................      2,075         2,219
Governmental and other contract related.....................      1,060           970
Taxes, other than income taxes..............................      1,334         1,363
Deferred credits............................................      1,502         1,505
Interest....................................................      2,180         2,277
Industrial Development Bonds................................        624           623
Other.......................................................      6,441         5,788
                                                                -------       -------
     Total other liabilities and deferred credits...........    $45,207       $45,015
                                                                =======       =======
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-27
<PAGE>   42
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 16. PENSIONS
 
     General Motors has a number of defined benefit pension plans covering
substantially all employees. Plans covering U.S. and Canadian represented
employees generally provide benefits of negotiated, stated amounts for each year
of service as well as significant supplemental benefits for employees who retire
with 30 years of service before normal retirement age. The benefits provided by
the plans covering U.S. and Canadian salaried employees and employees in certain
foreign locations, are generally based on years of service and salary history.
General Motors also has certain nonqualified pension plans covering executives
that are based on targeted wage replacement percentages and are unfunded.
 
     The measurement dates used for the principal U.S. plans of the Corporation
and Hughes were December 31 and December 1, respectively. For non-U.S. plans,
the measurement dates were December 1 for Canadian plans and October 1 for other
foreign plans.
 
     Plan assets are primarily invested in U.S. Government obligations, equity
and fixed income securities, commingled pension trust funds, insurance
contracts, the Corporation's $1 2/3 par value common stock, and EDS common stock
(valued as of the 1996 measurement date at $1.2 billion and $5.3 billion,
respectively). In March 1995, under the terms of an agreement between the
Corporation and the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation (the PBGC), the
Corporation contributed to the General Motors Hourly-Rate Employees Pension Plan
(Hourly Plan) 173.2 million shares of Class E common stock valued at $6.3
billion on such date. Subsequent to the split-off of EDS, the Class E stock held
by the Hourly Plan was exchanged for EDS common stock (Note 2). Subject to the
terms of the agreement with the PBGC, the Corporation will defer the use of
funding credits that would otherwise result from certain cash and stock
contributions. Consequently, the Corporation will continue to make regular cash
contributions to the Hourly Plan over the next several years. The agreement with
the PBGC released EDS from liability, if any, under Title IV of the Employees
Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) for the Corporation's U.S. Pension Plans.
In addition, in connection with the contribution of the shares of Class E common
stock, the U.S. Department of Labor granted an exemption with respect to, among
other things, limits otherwise applicable under ERISA on the amount of Class E
common stock that could be legally held by the Hourly Plan.
 
     General Motors' funding policy with respect to its qualified plans is to
contribute annually not less than the minimum required by applicable law and
regulation. General Motors made pension contributions to the U.S. plans of $800
million in 1996, $10.4 billion in 1995, and $7.7 billion in 1994.
 
     Pension expense included the following (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           NON-U.S.
                                                              U.S. PLANS    PLANS
                                                              ----------   --------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
  Benefits earned during the year                              $  1,208     $ 185
  Interest on projected benefit obligation..................      4,777       653
  Return on assets
     Actual gain............................................     (8,035)     (929)
     Less deferred gain.....................................      1,752       442
  Net amortization..........................................      1,436       139
                                                               --------     -----
  Net periodic pension cost.................................      1,138       490
  Termination, curtailment, and settlement benefits.........         59        60
  Other.....................................................         10        98
                                                               --------     -----
       Net pension expense..................................   $  1,207     $ 648
                                                               ========     =====
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-28
<PAGE>   43
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 16. PENSIONS (CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           NON-U.S.
                                                              U.S. PLANS    PLANS
                                                              ----------   --------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
  Benefits earned during the year...........................   $    927     $ 162
  Interest on projected obligation..........................      4,851       651
  Return on assets
     Actual gain............................................    (12,047)     (626)
     Less deferred gain.....................................      6,584       195
  Net amortization..........................................      1,053       118
                                                               --------     -----
  Net periodic pension cost.................................      1,368       500
  Termination, curtailment, and settlement benefits.........         51        25
  Other.....................................................          9        50
                                                               --------     -----
       Net pension expense..................................   $  1,428     $ 575
                                                               ========     =====
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994
  Benefits earned during the year...........................   $  1,131     $ 204
  Interest on projected benefit obligation..................      4,406       596
  Return on assets
     Actual gain............................................     (1,151)      (93)
     Plus deferred loss.....................................     (3,270)     (277)
  Net amortization..........................................      1,311       173
                                                               --------     -----
  Net periodic pension cost.................................      2,427       603
Termination, curtailment, and settlement benefits...........        400        61
Other.......................................................         13        42
                                                               --------     -----
       Net pension expense..................................   $  2,840     $ 706
                                                               ========     =====
</TABLE>
 
     The funded status of General Motors' plans at December 31, were as follows
(in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  1996                    1995
                                                          --------------------    --------------------
                                                           ASSETS      ACCUM.      ASSETS      ACCUM.
                                                           EXCEED     BENEFITS     EXCEED     BENEFITS
                                                           ACCUM.      EXCEED      ACCUM.      EXCEED
                                                          BENEFITS     ASSETS     BENEFITS     ASSETS
                                                          --------    --------    --------    --------
<S>                                                       <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
U.S. PLANS
 
Actuarial present value of:
  Vested benefits.....................................    $24,137     $ 36,723    $24,071     $ 34,327
  Nonvested benefits..................................      1,866        7,552      1,761        7,601
                                                          -------     --------    -------     --------
Accumulated benefit obligation........................     26,003       44,275     25,832       41,928
Effect of projected benefits..........................      1,992          231      2,331          238
                                                          -------     --------    -------     --------
Total projected benefit obligation (PBO) based on
  service to date.....................................     27,995       44,506     28,163       42,166
Plan assets at fair value.............................     31,123       40,172     28,855       38,581
                                                          -------     --------    -------     --------
PBO (in excess of) less than plan assets..............      3,128       (4,334)       692       (3,585)
Unamortized net amount resulting from changes in plan
  experience and actuarial assumptions................      2,989        5,138      5,736        7,269
Unamortized prior service cost........................      1,385        7,835      1,268        5,167
Unamortized net obligation (asset) at date of
  adoption............................................       (644)         415       (834)         520
Adjustment for unfunded pension liabilities...........         --      (13,157)        --      (12,717)
                                                          -------     --------    -------     --------
     Net prepaid pension asset (liability)............    $ 6,858     $ (4,103)   $ 6,862     $ (3,346)
                                                          =======     ========    =======     ========
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-29
<PAGE>   44
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 16. PENSIONS (CONCLUDED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  1996                    1995
                                                          --------------------    --------------------
                                                           ASSETS      ACCUM.      ASSETS      ACCUM.
                                                           EXCEED     BENEFITS     EXCEED     BENEFITS
                                                           ACCUM.      EXCEED      ACCUM.      EXCEED
                                                          BENEFITS     ASSETS     BENEFITS     ASSETS
                                                          --------    --------    --------    --------
<S>                                                       <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
NON-U.S. PLANS
Actuarial present value of:
  Vested benefits.....................................    $ 2,323     $  6,112    $ 2,014     $  5,465
  Nonvested benefits..................................         75          204         65          155
                                                          -------     --------    -------     --------
Accumulated benefit obligation........................      2,398        6,316      2,079        5,620
Effect of projected benefits..........................        295          517        302          516
                                                          -------     --------    -------     --------
Total PBO based on service to date....................      2,693        6,833      2,381        6,136
Plan assets at fair value.............................      3,065        2,850      2,626        2,407
                                                          -------     --------    -------     --------
PBO (in excess of) less than plan assets..............        372       (3,983)       245       (3,729)
Unamortized net amount resulting from changes in plan
  experience and actuarial assumptions................        548          905        579          807
Unamortized prior service cost........................        194          784        173          912
Unamortized net obligation (asset) at date of
  adoption............................................       (231)         226       (174)         200
Adjustment for unfunded pension liabilities...........         --       (1,410)        --       (1,411)
                                                          -------     --------    -------     --------
     Net prepaid pension asset (liability)............    $   883     $ (3,478)   $   823     $ (3,221)
                                                          =======     ========    =======     ========
</TABLE>
 
     The following assumptions were used to determine the pension expense and
the actuarial value of the PBO:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     1996                 1995
                                                               -----------------    -----------------
                                                               U.S.     NON-U.S.    U.S.     NON-U.S.
                                                               PLANS     PLANS      PLANS     PLANS
                                                               -----    --------    -----    --------
<S>                                                            <C>      <C>         <C>      <C>
Weighted average discount rate.............................     7.5%      7.3%       7.0%      8.0%
Rate of increase in future compensation levels*............     5.0%      4.2%       5.0%      4.3%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets...........    10.0%      9.8%      10.0%      9.9%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
* Benefits under the hourly plans are generally not based on wages; therefore,
  no benefit escalation beyond existing negotiated or anticipated increases was
  included.
 
  The assumptions for non-U.S. plans were developed on a basis consistent with
  that for U.S. plans, adjusted to reflect prevailing economic conditions and
  interest rate environments.
 
                                      II-30
<PAGE>   45
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 17. PLANT CLOSINGS AND RESTRUCTURING RESERVES
 
     General Motors previously established plant closings reserves to realign
plant capacity in its North American Operations and a restructuring reserve at
Hughes to provide for a reduction in worldwide employment, a major facilities
consolidation, and a reevaluation of certain non-strategic businesses. The plant
closings reserve principally includes amounts related to postemployment benefits
for employees (mainly pursuant to union or other contractual agreements), such
as employee job security and supplemental unemployment compensation benefits, at
closed plants and two plants scheduled for future closure. The plant closings
reserve also includes costs associated with the disposal of assets at the plants
scheduled for closure. The postemployment benefits portion of the plant closings
reserve was $1.0 billion and $1.9 billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively, which is subject to change in the near-term (although not
anticipated) due to changes in assumptions and the period over which such costs
are expected to be incurred.
 
     The following table summarizes the activity in the plant closings
(excluding environmental) and Hughes restructuring reserves for the period from
January 1, 1994 to December 31, 1996 (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
BALANCE AT JANUARY 1, 1994..................................    $4,152
  1994 charges against reserves.............................      (723)
  Discount of people related liabilities....................      (402)
  Additions to the reserve by Hughes........................        35
  Reclassification from environmental clean-up liability....        42
                                                                ------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1994................................     3,104
  1995 charges against reserves.............................      (707)
  Adjustment to discount for effects of accretion and change
     in interest rates......................................       215
                                                                ------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1995................................     2,612
  1996 charges against reserves.............................      (497)
  Adjustment to discount for effects of accretion and change
     in interest rates......................................        61
  Plant closings reserve adjustments........................      (779)
                                                                ------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996................................    $1,397
                                                                ======
</TABLE>
 
     In 1996, General Motors recorded favorable plant closings reserve
adjustments totaling $789 million, including $10 million for environmental
matters. Of this amount, $409 million reflected GM's decision to utilize its
Wilmington, Delaware, facility for the assembly of a new generation Saturn
vehicle, and $380 million was primarily due to revised estimates of
postemployment benefit costs to be incurred in connection with plant closings,
in light of changes in redeployment and other assumptions, including those
resulting from the 1996 settlements with the United Auto Workers and the
Canadian Auto Workers. Separate from the plant closings reserve, General Motors
recorded a plant closings charge of $62 million to provide for asset write-downs
of $34 million, postemployment benefit costs of $15 million, and other costs of
$13 million to be incurred in connection with the elimination of a production
line in mid-1997 at a North American facility.
 
     In 1994, the plant closings reserve was decreased to reflect a $402 million
discount for only the postemployment benefits portion of the reserve due to the
Corporation's use of discounting in its method of adoption of SFAS No. 112. In
1996 and 1995, the plant closings reserve was increased by $61 million and $215
million, respectively, for the net effects of accretion and changes in the
interest rate used to discount the postemployment benefits portion of the
reserve. In 1994, the Hughes restructuring reserve was increased by $35 million
primarily due to a change in the estimated loss on the disposition of a
subsidiary.
 
     At December 31, 1996, the combined total of the plant closings and
restructuring reserves (excluding environmental), including $1,355 million for
plant closings in North America and $42 million for the Hughes restructuring,
was primarily comprised of cash items, but also included certain noncash items
such as asset write-downs. Total future discounted cash expenditures for plant
closings is estimated to be $1,279 million.
 
                                      II-31
<PAGE>   46
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 17. PLANT CLOSINGS AND RESTRUCTURING RESERVES (CONCLUDED)

The future costs of postemployment benefits (approximately three-quarters of the
future cash expenditures) will be expended during the period between the closing
of the plants and the time the affected employees are redeployed, retire, or
otherwise terminate their employment. The majority of such spending will occur
over the next five years. The other cash payments for the plant closings reserve
primarily relate to facility costs and will be expended in varying amounts over
the next four years. Cash outflows are influenced by, among other items,
efficient and effective management of the work force and the timing of plant
closings. Approximately $41 million of Hughes' restructuring reserve balance,
primarily relating to facilities consolidation, will require future cash
outflows, the predominant portion of which will occur during the next year.
 
     General Motors and Hughes periodically evaluate the adequacy of reserve
balances and estimated future expenditures, including assumptions used and the
period over which such costs are expected to be incurred.
 
NOTE 18. CONTINGENT MATTERS
 
     In September 1996, Hughes and PanAmSat Corporation entered into an
agreement to merge their respective satellite services operations into a new
publicly-held company. Hughes would contribute its Galaxy(R) satellite services
business in exchange for a 71.5% interest in the new company. Current PanAmSat
stockholders would receive a 28.5% interest in the new company and $1.5 billion
in cash. The transaction, which is contingent upon receiving certain regulatory
approvals, is expected to close during the second quarter of 1997.
 
     Hughes has maintained a suit against the U.S. Government since September
1973, regarding the Government's infringement and use of a Hughes patent (the
"Williams Patent") covering "Velocity Control and Orientation of a Spin
Stabilized Body," principally satellites. On June 17, 1994, the U.S. Court of
Claims awarded Hughes damages of $114 million. Because Hughes believed that the
record supported a higher royalty rate, it appealed that decision. The U.S.
Government, contending that the award was too high, also appealed. On June 19,
1996, the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed the decision of the
Court of Claims which awarded Hughes $114 million in damages, together with
interest. The U.S. Government petitioned the Court of Appeals for the Federal
Circuit for a rehearing. That petition was denied in October of 1996. The U.S.
Government has filed a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court seeking certiorari.
Hughes is unable to estimate the duration of any such possible appeal. In the
opinion of management of Hughes, there is a reasonable possibility that this
matter could be resolved in the near-term. While no amount has been recorded in
the financial statements of Hughes to reflect the $114 million award, a
resolution of this matter could result in a gain that would be material to the
earnings of General Motors attributable to Class H common stock.
 
     General Motors is subject to potential liability under
government-regulations and various claims and legal actions which are pending or
may be asserted against them. Some of the pending actions purport to be class
actions. The aggregate ultimate liability of General Motors under these
government regulations and under these claims and actions, was not determinable
at December 31, 1996. After discussion with counsel, it is the opinion of
management that such liability is not expected to have a material adverse effect
on the Corporation's consolidated operations or financial position.
 
                                      II-32
<PAGE>   47
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 19. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
     The following table presents changes in stockholders' equity for the period
from January 1, 1994 to December 31, 1996 (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            PREFERENCE   $1 2/3 PAR VALUE     CLASS E        CLASS H          TOTAL
                                              STOCKS       COMMON STOCK     COMMON STOCK   COMMON STOCK   CAPITAL STOCK
                                            ----------   ----------------   ------------   ------------   -------------
                                               (1)
<S>                                         <C>          <C>                <C>            <C>            <C>
BALANCE AT JANUARY 1, 1994................     $ 4              $1,200          $ 26           $ 8            $1,238
  Series A conversion.....................      (2)                 29            --            --                27
  Shares issued during the year...........      --                  28             1            --                29
                                               ---              ------          ----           ---            ------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1994..............       2               1,257            27             8             1,294
  Shares reacquired under tender offer....      (1)                 --            --            --                (1)
  Shares reacquired on the open market....      --                 (16)           --            --               (16)
  Shares issued during the year...........      --                  14            --            --                14
  Shares issued in conjunction with U.S.
    Hourly-Rate Employees Pension Plan
    contribution..........................      --                  --            17            --                17
  Reclassification of shares formerly
    subject to repurchase from HHMI.......      --                  --            --             2                 2
                                               ---              ------          ----           ---            ------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1995..............       1               1,255            44            10             1,310
  Shares reacquired on the open market....      --                  (8)           --            --                (8)
  Shares issued during the year...........      --                  14            --            --                14
  Series C conversion.....................      --                  --             5            --                 5
  EDS split-off...........................      --                  --           (49)           --               (49)
                                               ---              ------          ----           ---            ------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996..............     $ 1              $1,261          $ --           $10            $1,272
                                               ===              ======          ====           ===            ======
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                      NET
                                                          RETAINED      MINIMUM     ACCUMULATED   UNREALIZED
                                                          EARNINGS      PENSION       FOREIGN        GAINS          TOTAL
                                              CAPITAL   (ACCUMULATED   LIABILITY     CURRENCY     (LOSSES) ON   STOCKHOLDERS'
                                              SURPLUS     DEFICIT)     ADJUSTMENT   TRANSLATION   INVESTMENTS      EQUITY
                                              -------   ------------   ----------   -----------   -----------   -------------
                                                (2)         (3)                         (4)
<S>                                           <C>       <C>            <C>          <C>           <C>           <C>
BALANCE AT JANUARY 1, 1994..................  $12,003     $(2,004)      $(5,311)      $  (494)       $165          $ 5,597
  Amounts in excess of par value of:
    Series A conversion.....................     (27)          --            --            --          --               --
    Shares issued during the year...........   1,173           --            --            --          --            1,202
  Net income................................      --        4,901            --            --          --            4,901
  Cash dividends(5).........................      --       (1,112)           --                                     (1,112)
  Change during the year....................      --           --         1,763           394        (162)           1,995
  Cumulative effect of SFAS No. 115.........      --           --            --            --         241              241
                                              -------     -------       -------       -------        ----          -------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1994................  13,149        1,785        (3,548)         (100)        244           12,824
  Amounts in excess of par value of:
    Shares reacquired under tender offer....  (1,132)          --            --            --          --           (1,133)
    Shares reacquired on the open market....    (379)          --            --            --          --             (395)
    Shares issued during the year...........     543           --            --            --          --              557
    Shares issued in connection with U.S.
      Hourly-Rate Employees Pension Plan
      contribution..........................   6,242           --            --            --          --            6,259
    Reclassification of shares formerly
      subject to repurchase from HHMI.......     448           --            --            --          --              450
  Net income................................      --        6,881            --            --          --            6,881
  Cash dividends(5).........................      --       (1,328)           --            --          --           (1,328)
  Less redemption price of preference stock
    in excess of stated value...............      --         (153)           --            --          --             (153)
  Change during the year....................      --           --        (1,188)          323         249             (616)
                                              -------     -------       -------       -------        ----          -------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1995................  18,871        7,185        (4,736)          223         493           23,346
  Amounts in excess of par value of:
    Shares reacquired on the open market....    (243)          --            --            --          --             (251)
    Shares issued during the year...........     519           --            --            --          --              533
    Series C conversion.....................      (7)          --            --            --          --               (2)
    EDS split-off...........................      49       (4,481)           --            --          --           (4,481)
  Net income................................      --        4,963            --            --          --            4,963
  Cash dividends(5).........................      --       (1,530)           --            --          --           (1,530)
  Change during the year....................      --           --         1,246          (336)        (70)             840
                                              -------     -------       -------       -------        ----          -------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996................  $19,189     $ 6,137       $(3,490)      $  (113)       $423          $23,418
                                              =======     =======       =======       =======        ====          =======
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
Notes follow on the next page.
 
                                      II-33
<PAGE>   48
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 19. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED)

Notes (in millions except par value, stated value, and per share amounts):
 
(1) The following describes the Corporation's preference stocks: Preference
    Stock, $0.10 par value (authorized 100 shares): Series B 9 1/8% Depositary
    Shares, stated value $25 per share, redeemable at Corporation option on or
    after January 1, 1999; issued at December 31, 1996, 20 shares equivalent to
    5 shares of nonconvertible Series B 9 1/8% Preference Stock, stated value
    $100 per share. Series C Depositary Shares, liquidation preference $50 per
    share. Series D 7.92% Depositary Shares, stated value $25 per share,
    redeemable at Corporation option on or after August 1, 1999; issued at
    December 31, 1996, 6 shares equivalent to 2 shares of Series D 7.92%
    Preference Stock. Series G 9.12% Depositary Shares, stated value $25 per
    share, redeemable at Corporation option on or after January 1, 2001; issued
    at December 31, 1996, 10 shares, equivalent to 3 shares of Series G 9.12%
    Preference Stock.
(2) Capital Surplus attributable to $1 2/3 par value common stock was $16,335,
    $6,190, and $6,225 at the end of 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. Capital
    Surplus attributable to Class E was $8,418 and $2,088 at the end of 1995 and
    1994, respectively. Capital Surplus attributable to Class H was $1,979,
    $1,832, and $1,269 at the end of 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. Capital
    Surplus attributable to Preference Stocks was $875, $2,431, and $3,567 at
    the end of 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
(3) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) attributable to $1 2/3 par value
    common stock were $4,871, $3,854, and $(779) at the end of 1996, 1995, and
    1994, respectively. Retained Earnings attributable to Class E were $2,254
    and $1,664 at the end of 1995 and 1994, respectively. Retained Earnings
    attributable to Class H were $1,266, $1,077, and $900 at the end of 1996,
    1995, and 1994, respectively.
(4) Net of deferred income taxes (benefit) of $(278), $225, and $265 at the end
    of 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
(5) Cash dividends per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock were $1.60, $1.10,
    and $0.80 for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. Cash dividends per share
    of Class E were $0.30, $0.52, and $0.48 for 1996, 1995, and 1994,
    respectively. Cash dividends per share of Class H were $0.96, $0.92, and
    $0.80 for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
- -------------------------
 
     Holders of $1 2/3 par value and Class H common stocks are entitled to one
and one-half vote per share, respectively, on all matters submitted to the
stockholders for a vote. The liquidation rights of common stockholders are based
on per share liquidation units of the $1 2/3 par value and Class H common stocks
and are subject to certain adjustments if outstanding common stock is
subdivided, by stock split or otherwise, or if shares of one class of common
stock are issued as a dividend to holders of another class of common stock.
 
     Each share of $1 2/3 par value and Class H common stocks is entitled to a
liquidation unit of the same as the vote per share. Holders of Class H common
stock have no direct rights in the equity or assets of Hughes, but rather have
rights in the equity and assets of General Motors (which includes 100% of the
stock of Hughes).
 
     The Corporation's Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended,
provides generally that in the event the Corporation should sell, liquidate, or
otherwise dispose of substantially all of Hughes Aircraft Company, or the other
businesses of Hughes, all outstanding shares of Class H common stock will
automatically be converted into the Corporation's $1 2/3 par value common stock
at an exchange rate that would provide Class H common stockholders with that
number of shares of $1 2/3 par value common stock that would have a value equal
to 120% of the value of their Class H common stock, as of a specific notice or
announcement date provided for in the Restated Certificate of Incorporation. A
recapitalization of the type described in the prior sentence would occur if any
of the triggering events took place unless the holders of GM common stock
(including the holders of $1 2/3 par value common stock and holders of the Class
H common stock voting separately as individual classes) vote to approve an
alternative proposal from GM's Board of Directors, as occurred in relation to
GM's former Class E common stock in connection with the split-off of EDS in
1996, and as GM has indicated its Board of Directors plans to propose to the GM
Class H and $1 2/3 stockholders later this year in connection with the potential
spin-off of the Hughes defense business (also see Note 23).
 
     Upon Board approval, GM may exchange $1 2/3 par value common stock for
Class H common stock, if the Board has declared and paid certain minimum cash
dividends during each of the five years preceding the exchange. Based on the
dividends paid on the Class H common stock in 1992 through 1996, the dividend
condition described above would be satisfied in 1997.
 
                                      II-34
<PAGE>   49
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 19. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (CONCLUDED)

     During the 1996 first quarter, approximately 45 million shares of Class E
common stock were issued upon conversion of approximately 3 million shares of
Series C Preference Stock (represented by depositary shares). The remaining
6,784 shares of Series C Preference Stock were redeemed on February 22, 1996 for
$4 million of cash, or $524.20 per share of Series C Preference Stock ($52.42
per depositary share).
 
     In May 1995, the Corporation concluded a tender offer, which began in April
1995, under which it purchased for $1.3 billion of cash (i) 24 million
depositary shares, each representing one-fourth of a share of its Series B
9 1/8% Preference Stock, at a purchase price of $27.50 per depositary share,
(ii) 10 million depositary shares, each representing one-fourth of a share of
its Series D 7.92% Preference Stock, at a purchase price of $26.375 per
depositary share, and (iii) 13 million depositary shares, each representing one-
fourth of a share of its Series G 9.12% Preference Stock, at a purchase price of
$28.25 per depositary share. The repurchase had an unfavorable impact of $0.22
per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock. The unfavorable impact was comprised
of tender offer expenses of $14 million after-tax, or $0.02 per share, that were
charged against income and the purchase price in excess of the carrying amount
of the preference shares amounting to $153 million, or $0.20 per share, that was
not charged against income but reduced earnings attributable to $1 2/3 par value
common stock.
 
     The Corporation held an option to call 15 million shares of Class H common
stock subject to put options issued to the Howard Hughes Medical Institute
(HHMI). In March 1995, the put and call rights expired unexercised. As a result,
$2 million was reclassified to Class H common stock and $448 million was
reclassified to capital surplus.
 
     In June 1994, the Corporation converted its outstanding shares of its
Series A Conversion Preference Stock (Preference Equity Redemption Cumulative
Stock or PERCS) into 18 million shares of $1 2/3 par value common stock.
 
NOTE 20. EARNINGS PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO AND DIVIDENDS ON COMMON STOCKS
 
     Earnings per share attributable to common stocks have been determined based
on the relative amounts available for the payment of dividends to holders of
$1 2/3 par value and Class H common stocks (Note 23) and the former Class E
common stock (Note 2). The allocation of earnings attributable to such common
stocks and the calculation of the related amounts per share were computed by
considering the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Beginning
in 1996, common stock equivalents were not considered as they are not material.
 
     The Available Separate Consolidated Net Income (ASCNI) of Hughes represents
the quarterly separate consolidated net income of Hughes, excluding the effects
of purchase accounting adjustments arising at the time of the Corporation's
acquisition of Hughes, multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is a
number equal to the weighted average number of shares of Class H common stock
outstanding during the period (99 million during the fourth quarter of 1996) and
the denominator of which was 400 million during the fourth quarter of 1996.
Comparable numerators for the fourth quarters of 1995 and 1994 were 97 million
and 93 million. Comparable denominators were 400 million in the fourth quarters
of 1995 and 1994.
 
     The denominator used in determining the ASCNI of Hughes may be adjusted as
deemed appropriate by the GM Board of Directors to reflect subdivisions or
combinations of the Class H common stock and to reflect certain transfers of
capital to or from Hughes. The GM Board's discretion to make such adjustments is
limited by criteria set forth in the Corporation's Restated Certificate of
Incorporation. In this regard, the GM Board has generally caused the denominator
to decrease as shares are purchased by Hughes and to increase as such shares are
used, at Hughes expense, for Hughes employee benefit plans or acquisitions.
 
                                      II-35
<PAGE>   50
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 20. EARNINGS PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO AND DIVIDENDS ON COMMON STOCKS
(CONCLUDED)

     Dividends on the $1 2/3 par value common stock are declared out of the
earnings of General Motors, excluding the ASCNI of Hughes and EDS, during such
time that EDS was an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Corporation.
Dividends on the Class H common stock are declared out of the ASCNI of Hughes,
earned since the acquisition of Hughes by the Corporation.
 
     Dividends may be paid on common stocks only when, as and if declared by the
GM Board in its sole discretion. The GM Board's policy with respect to $1 2/3
par value common stock is to distribute dividends based on the outlook and the
indicated capital needs of the business. The current policy of the GM Board with
respect to the Class H common stock is to pay quarterly cash dividends
approximately equal to 35% of the ASCNI of Hughes, for the prior year.
 
     During the period that EDS was an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the
Corporation the ASCNI of EDS was determined quarterly in amounts equal to the
separate consolidated net income of EDS for each respective quarter, excluding
the effects of purchase accounting adjustments relating to the Corporation's
acquisition of EDS for each such period, multiplied by a fraction, the numerator
of which represented the weighted average number of shares of Class E common
stock outstanding during the period (439 million for the fourth quarter of 1995)
and the denominator of which was 484 million for the fourth quarter of 1995. The
denominator of the fraction was adjusted from time-to-time as deemed appropriate
by the GM Board to reflect subdivisions or combinations of the Class E common
stock and to reflect certain transfers of capital to or from EDS. The weighted
average number of shares of Class E common stock outstanding for 1996 reflects
shares outstanding through June 30, 1996. Dividends on the Class E common stock
were declared only out of the ASCNI of EDS earned during such time that EDS was
an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Corporation.
 
NOTE 21. STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS
 
     General Motors' stock incentive plans consist of the General Motors Amended
1987 Stock Incentive Plan (the "GMSIP") and the Hughes Electronics Corporation
Incentive Plan (the "Hughes Plan"). The GMSIP is administered by the Executive
Compensation Committee of the Board. The Hughes Plan is administered by the
Executive Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of Hughes Electronics
Corporation.
 
     Under the GMSIP, 40 million shares of $1 2/3 par value and 6 million shares
of Class H common stocks may be granted from June 1, 1992 through May 31, 1997
of which 10 million and 3 million shares, respectively, were available for
grants at December 31, 1996. Options granted under the GMSIP generally are
exercisable one-half after one year and one-half after two years from the dates
of grant. Stock option grants to certain executives vest ratably over three
years following the grant date. Option prices are 100% of fair market value on
the dates of grant and the options generally expire 10 years from the dates of
grant, subject to earlier termination under certain conditions.
 
     Under the Hughes Plan, Hughes may grant shares, rights, or options to
acquire up to 20 million shares of Class H common stock through May 31, 1997, of
which 2 million shares were available for grant at December 31, 1996. Option
prices are 100% of fair market value on the dates of grant and the options
generally expire 10 years from the dates of grant, subject to earlier
termination under certain conditions.
 
                                      II-36
<PAGE>   51
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 21. STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS (CONCLUDED)

     Changes in the status of outstanding options were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           GMSIP                          HUGHES PLAN
                                                  $1 2/3 PAR VALUE COMMON                CLASS H COMMON
                                               ------------------------------    ------------------------------
                                                                  WEIGHTED                          WEIGHTED
                                                  SHARES          AVERAGE           SHARES          AVERAGE
                                               UNDER OPTION    EXERCISE PRICE    UNDER OPTION    EXERCISE PRICE
                                               ------------    --------------    ------------    --------------
<S>                                            <C>             <C>               <C>             <C>
Options outstanding at January 1, 1994.....     22,761,057         $39.05         6,366,008          $25.19
Granted....................................      6,159,395         $58.61         1,612,640          $36.75
Exercised..................................      3,305,513         $39.23           712,107          $24.48
Terminated.................................        340,161         $50.53           202,220          $34.22
                                                ----------         ------         ---------          ------
Options outstanding at December 31, 1994...     25,274,778         $43.64         7,064,321          $27.64
                                                ----------         ------         ---------          ------
Granted....................................      6,600,115         $43.22         1,537,350          $39.94
Exercised..................................      2,248,627         $37.12         1,929,393          $24.81
Terminated.................................        346,140         $45.12            14,425          $34.17
                                                ----------         ------         ---------          ------
Options outstanding at December 31, 1995...     29,280,126         $44.03         6,657,853          $31.29
                                                ----------         ------         ---------          ------
Granted....................................      7,087,590         $52.27         1,501,900          $61.31
Exercised..................................      6,207,072         $39.16           864,889          $28.58
Terminated.................................        202,697         $51.75           128,075          $42.94
                                                ----------         ------         ---------          ------
Options outstanding at December 31, 1996...     29,957,947         $46.94         7,166,789          $37.70
                                                ----------         ------         ---------          ------
Options exercisable at December 31, 1996...     19,699,257         $45.67         4,965,289          $30.40
                                                ==========         ======         =========          ======
</TABLE>
 
     The following table summarizes information about GMSIP and Hughes Plan
stock options outstanding at December 31, 1996:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   WEIGHTED AVERAGE           WEIGHTED                         WEIGHTED
    RANGE OF                       OPTIONS             REMAINING              AVERAGE          OPTIONS         AVERAGE
EXERCISE PRICES                  OUTSTANDING    CONTRACTUAL LIFE (YRS.)    EXERCISE PRICE    EXERCISABLE    EXERCISE PRICE
- ---------------                  -----------    -----------------------    --------------    -----------    --------------
<C>              <S>             <C>            <C>                        <C>               <C>            <C>
GMSIP $1 2/3 PAR VALUE COMMON
 
$30.00 to $39.99 ............     5,817,515               5.6                  $35.75         5,736,440         $35.71
 40.00 to  49.99 ............    11,406,312               5.9                   43.29         8,225,542          43.30
 50.00 to  60.00 ............    12,734,120               8.2                   55.32         5,737,275          59.01
                                 ----------               ---                  ------        ----------         ------
$30.00 to $60.00 ............    29,957,947               6.8                  $46.94        19,699,257         $45.67
                                 ==========               ===                  ======        ==========         ======
HUGHES PLAN CLASS H COMMON
 
$15.00 to $24.99 ............       829,669               4.6                  $20.74           829,669         $20.74
 25.00 to  34.99 ............     2,179,755               5.5                   27.36         2,179,755          27.36
 35.00 to  44.99 ............     2,692,090               7.9                   38.45         1,955,865          37.89
 45.00 to  54.99 ............            --                --                      --                --             --
 55.00 to  65.00 ............     1,465,275               9.3                   61.31                --             --
                                 ----------               ---                  ------        ----------         ------
$15.00 to $65.00 ............     7,166,789               7.1                  $37.70         4,965,289         $30.40
                                 ==========               ===                  ======        ==========         ======
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 22. SEGMENT REPORTING
 
INDUSTRY SEGMENTS
 
     While the major portion of General Motors' operations is derived from the
automotive products industry segment, General Motors also has a financing and
insurance industry segment and produces products and
 
                                      II-37
<PAGE>   52
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 22. SEGMENT REPORTING (CONTINUED)

provides services in other industry segments. The automotive products segment
consists of the design, manufacture, assembly, and sale of automobiles, trucks
and related parts and accessories. The financing and insurance operations,
primarily GMAC, assist in the merchandising of General Motors' products as well
as other products. GMAC offers financial services and certain types of insurance
to dealers and customers. In addition, GMAC is engaged in mortgage banking
services. The other products segment consists of satellite construction,
ownership and operation, communications services, ground equipment,
direct-to-home satellite television entertainment services, missile systems,
command and control systems, torpedoes and sonar systems, electro-optical
systems, airborne radar and communication systems, military training and
simulation systems, air traffic control systems, information systems, and
guidance and control systems; as well as the design, development, and
manufacture of locomotives.
 
     Substantially all of the products in the automotive segment are marketed
through retail dealers and through distributors and jobbers in North America and
through distributors and dealers overseas.
 
     Information concerning continuing operations by industry segment as of and
for each of the three years ended December 31, was as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 FINANCING &
                                               AUTOMOTIVE         INSURANCE          OTHER
                                                PRODUCTS        OPERATIONS(1)       PRODUCTS        TOTAL
                                               ----------       -------------       --------        -----
<S>                                            <C>              <C>                 <C>            <C>
1996
Net sales and revenues(2)..................     $133,168           $12,674          $12,173        $158,015
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Operating profit...........................     $  4,477               N/A(3)       $   682        $  5,159
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Identifiable assets at year-end............     $103,517           $98,358          $17,161        $219,036
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Depreciation and amortization expenses.....     $  6,664           $ 4,695          $   481        $ 11,840
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Capital expenditures.......................     $  9,010           $   343          $   596(4)     $  9,949
                                                ========           =======          =======        ========
1995
Net sales and revenues(2)..................     $132,159           $11,664          $11,507        $155,330
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Operating profit...........................     $  6,101               N/A(3)       $   538        $  6,639
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Identifiable assets at year-end............     $ 91,162           $95,545          $17,372        $204,079
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Depreciation and amortization expenses.....     $  5,990           $ 4,427          $   796        $ 11,213
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Capital expenditures                            $  8,216           $   133          $   437(4)     $  8,786
                                                ========           =======          =======        ========
1994
Net sales and revenues(2)..................     $123,253           $ 9,419          $11,507        $144,179
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Operating profit...........................     $  6,116               N/A(3)       $   891        $  7,007
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Identifiable assets at year-end............     $ 88,064           $85,270          $13,879        $187,213
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Depreciation and amortization expenses.....     $  5,655           $ 3,302          $   688        $  9,645
                                                --------           -------          -------        --------
Capital expenditures.......................     $  5,545           $   133          $   345(4)     $  6,023
                                                ========           =======          =======        ========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Financing and insurance operations included the following financial data for
    GMAC:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     1996       1995       1994
                                                                     ----       ----       ----
    <S>                                                             <C>        <C>        <C>
    Net Income..................................................    $ 1,240    $ 1,031    $   920
    Total Assets................................................    $98,578    $95,648    $86,517
    Net Assets..................................................    $ 8,268    $ 8,269    $ 7,894
</TABLE>
 
(2) After elimination of intersegment transactions.
 
(3) Financing and insurance operations do not report operating profit.
 
(4) Excludes expenditures related to telecommunications and other equipment
    amounting to $188 million, $275 million, and $256 million in 1996, 1995, and
    1994, respectively.
 
                                      II-38
<PAGE>   53
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 22. SEGMENT REPORTING (CONTINUED)

     A reconciliation of net sales and revenues to total net sales and revenues
and of total operating profit to income from continuing operations before income
taxes detailed in the consolidated statements of income and a reconciliation of
identifiable assets to total assets displayed in the consolidated balance sheets
follow (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED
                                                                              DECEMBER 31,
                                                                  ------------------------------------
                                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                                    ----          ----          ----
<S>                                                               <C>           <C>           <C>
Net sales and revenues......................................      $158,015      $155,330      $144,179
Other income................................................         6,054         4,942         4,320
                                                                  --------      --------      --------
     Total net sales and revenues...........................      $164,069      $160,272      $148,499
                                                                  ========      ========      ========
Total operating profit......................................      $  5,159      $  6,639      $  7,007
Financing and insurance operations..........................         2,036         1,783         1,440
Other corporate income and expenses less intersegment
  transactions..............................................          (519)          (73)       (1,349)
                                                                  --------      --------      --------
     Income from continuing operations before income
       taxes................................................      $  6,676      $  8,349      $  7,098
                                                                  ========      ========      ========
Identifiable assets.........................................      $219,036      $204,079      $187,213
Corporate assets............................................         4,984         5,688         5,649
Net assets of discontinued operations.......................            --         5,055         4,348
Eliminations................................................        (1,878)       (1,159)       (2,222)
                                                                  --------      --------      --------
     Total assets...........................................      $222,142      $213,663      $194,988
                                                                  ========      ========      ========
</TABLE>
 
GEOGRAPHIC SEGMENTS
 
     Information concerning continuing operations by principal geographic area
was as follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                          ----------------------------------------------------------------
                                           UNITED      CANADA                 LATIN      ALL
                                           STATES     & MEXICO    EUROPE     AMERICA    OTHER     TOTAL(1)
                 1996                      ------     --------    ------     -------    -----     --------
<S>                                       <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>        <C>       <C>
Net sales and revenues
  Manufactured products...............    $ 99,019    $ 8,433     $27,793    $6,860     $3,236    $145,341
  Financial services..................       8,960      1,110       2,156       135        313      12,674
  Other income........................       5,090        138         506       363        (43)      6,054
                                          --------    -------     -------    ------     ------    --------
     Subtotal.........................     113,069      9,681      30,455     7,358      3,506     164,069
  Interarea...........................      13,357     17,243       1,509       632         28          --
                                          --------    -------     -------    ------     ------    --------
     Total............................    $126,426    $26,924     $31,964    $7,990     $3,534    $164,069
                                          ========    =======     =======    ======     ======    ========
Income from continuing operations.....    $  1,633    $ 1,043     $ 1,077    $  901     $  344    $  4,953
                                          --------    -------     -------    ------     ------    --------
Total assets..........................    $166,724    $14,888     $32,307     5,924     $5,616    $222,142
                                          --------    -------     -------    ------     ------    --------
Net assets............................    $  7,354    $ 3,776     $ 7,337    $3,172     $1,943    $ 23,418
                                          ========    =======     =======    ======     ======    ========
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-39
<PAGE>   54
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 22. SEGMENT REPORTING (CONCLUDED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------
                                             UNITED     CANADA               LATIN     ALL
                                             STATES    & MEXICO   EUROPE    AMERICA   OTHER    TOTAL(1)
                                             ------    --------   ------    -------   -----    --------
<S>                                         <C>        <C>        <C>       <C>       <C>      <C>
1995
Net sales and revenues
  Manufactured products...................  $102,205   $ 6,985    $27,204    $5,918   $1,354   $143,666
  Financial services......................     8,125       986      2,192       119      242     11,664
  Other income............................     3,664       120        639       330      189      4,942
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
     Subtotal.............................   113,994     8,091     30,035     6,367    1,785    160,272
  Interarea...............................    12,781    17,998      1,055       621       59         --
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
     Total................................  $126,775   $26,089    $31,090    $6,988   $1,844   $160,272
                                            ========   =======    =======    ======   ======   ========
Income from continuing operations before
  cumulative effect of accounting
  change..................................  $  2,449   $ 1,102    $ 1,393    $  701   $  329   $  6,033
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
Income from continuing operations.........  $  2,397   $ 1,102    $ 1,393    $  701   $  329   $  5,981
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
Total assets(2)...........................  $161,606   $14,096    $33,111    $4,862   $4,237   $213,663
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
Net assets(2).............................  $  6,451   $ 4,638    $ 8,540    $3,029   $1,550   $ 23,346
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
1994
Net sales and revenues
Manufactured products.....................  $ 96,577   $ 8,218    $23,542    $5,220   $1,203   $134,760
Financial services........................     6,531       781      1,894        57      156      9,419
Other income..............................     3,154       178        483       355      150      4,320
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
     Subtotal.............................   106,262     9,177     25,919     5,632    1,509    148,499
  Interarea...............................    11,477    13,607        754        90       59         --
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
     Total................................  $117,739   $22,784    $26,673    $5,722   $1,568   $148,499
                                            ========   =======    =======    ======   ======   ========
Income from continuing operations before
  cumulative effect of accounting
  change..................................  $  1,464   $ 1,143    $ 1,219    $  795   $  262   $  4,866
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
Income from continuing operations.........  $    750   $ 1,098    $ 1,219    $  795   $  262   $  4,108
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
Total assets(2)...........................  $151,058   $13,762    $28,570    $3,983   $3,254   $194,274
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
Net assets(2).............................  $ (1,178)  $ 4,724    $ 6,719    $2,178   $1,066   $ 12,824
                                            --------   -------    -------    ------   ------   --------
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) After elimination of interarea transactions.
 
(2) Includes the net assets of discontinued operations of $5.1 billion and $4.3
    billion at December 31, 1995 and 1994, respectively.
 
                                      II-40
<PAGE>   55
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONCLUDED
NOTE 23. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
 
     On January 16, 1997, the Corporation announced a series of planned
transactions that would impact the defense electronics, automotive electronics,
and telecommunications and space businesses of Hughes. The transactions would
include:
 
     - The tax-free spin-off of 100% of the Hughes defense business, to holders
       of GM's $1 2/3 par value and Class H common stocks;
 
     - The tax-free merger of the Hughes defense business with Raytheon Company
       (Raytheon) immediately following the spin-off, after which there would be
       outstanding two classes of Raytheon/Hughes defense common stock;
 
     - The transfer of Delco Electronics (Delco), the automotive electronics
       subsidiary of Hughes, from Hughes to GM's Delphi Automotive Systems and a
       reallocation of the derivative interest in the earnings of Delco
       currently held by Class H common stockholders to holders of $1 2/3 par
       value common stock; and
 
     - The recapitalization of Class H common stock into a tracking stock linked
       solely to the telecommunications and space business of Hughes. GM would
       continue to own 100% of Hughes, which would hold and operate its existing
       telecommunications and space business.
 
     The distribution of stock in the Hughes defense business to holders of GM
Class H and $1 2/3 par value common stock would be in a ratio that would be
determined by GM's Board of Directors to be fair to both classes of stockholders
and would reflect: (1) a pro rata spin-off of the Hughes defense business to
holders of GM Class H and $1 2/3 par value common stock; (2) a partial
reallocation of the Hughes defense business from holders of GM $1 2/3 par value
common stock to holders of Class H common stock in exchange for the derivative
interest in the earnings of Delco currently held by the Class H stockholders;
and (3) other effects of and factors relating to the planned transactions. Such
a distribution ratio will be set by GM's Board of Directors at a time closer to
GM's distribution of the solicitation statement/prospectus pursuant to which GM
stockholders will be asked to approve the transactions.
 
     The planned transactions are subject to approval by holders of GM $1 2/3
par value and Class H common stock. In addition, the merger of the Hughes
defense business with Raytheon, which is contingent upon the spin-off of the
Hughes defense business, is subject to approval by the stockholders of Raytheon.
The planned transactions also are subject to a variety of regulatory approvals
and actions, including anti-trust clearance and receipt of rulings by the
Internal Revenue Service that the spin-off of the Hughes defense business would
be tax-free to GM and its stockholders.
 
     The spin-off is not being proposed in a manner that would result in the
recapitalization of Class H common stock into $1 2/3 par value common stock at a
120% exchange ratio, as currently provided for under certain circumstances in
the Corporation's Restated Certificate of Incorporation.
 
     No assurances can be given that the above transactions will be completed;
however, management of the Corporation and the Corporation's Board of Directors
expect to solicit stockholder approval during the third quarter of 1997, after
certain conditions are satisfied.
 
     Separately, on January 27, 1997, the GM Board of Directors approved a $2.5
billion repurchase program for $1 2/3 par value common stock, which was expected
to be completed principally through open-market purchases within 12 months of
the announcement date. This would represent a repurchase of slightly more than
5% of the shares of $1 2/3 par value common stock outstanding on the date of the
announcement, based on the New York Stock Exchange's closing price on the last
business day prior to the announcement.
 
                                *  *  *  *  *  *
 
                                      II-41
<PAGE>   56
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                           SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
 
SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            1996 QUARTERS
                                                           ------------------------------------------------
                                                           1ST(1)(2)       2ND        3RD(3)     4TH(1)(4)
                                                           ---------       ---        ------     ---------
                                                            (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                        <C>           <C>         <C>         <C>
Net sales and revenues.................................      $39,240      $44,772     $39,109      $40,948
                                                             =======      =======     =======      =======
Income from continuing operations before income
  taxes................................................      $ 1,233      $ 3,193     $ 1,529      $   721
Income taxes (benefit).................................          433        1,097         258          (65)(5)
                                                             -------      -------     -------      -------
  Income from continuing operations....................          800        2,096       1,271          786
Income (loss) from discontinued operations.............          219         (209)         --           --
                                                             -------      -------     -------      -------
     Net income........................................        1,019        1,887       1,271          786
Dividends on preference stocks.........................           20           20          21           20
                                                             -------      -------     -------      -------
     Earnings on common stocks.........................      $   999      $ 1,867     $ 1,250      $   766
                                                             =======      =======     =======      =======
Earnings attributable to common stocks
  $1 2/3 par value from continuing operations..........      $   704      $ 2,001     $ 1,188      $   696
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations...........           10          (15)         --           --
                                                             -------      -------     -------      -------
     Net earnings attributable to $1 2/3 par value.....      $   714      $ 1,986     $ 1,188      $   696
                                                             =======      =======     =======      =======
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations
     attributable to Class E...........................      $   209      $  (194)    $    --      $    --
                                                             =======      =======     =======      =======
  Net earnings attributable to Class H.................      $    76      $    75     $    62      $    70
                                                             =======      =======     =======      =======
Average number of shares of common stocks outstanding
  (in millions)
  $1 2/3 par value.....................................          755          756         756          756
  Class E..............................................          463          479          --           --
  Class H..............................................           97           98          99           99
Earnings per share attributable to common stocks
  $1 2/3 par value from continuing operations..........       $ 0.93       $ 2.65      $ 1.57        $ 0.92
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations...........         0.01        (0.02)         --           --
                                                             -------      -------     -------      -------
     Net earnings attributable to $1 2/3 par value.....       $ 0.94       $ 2.63      $ 1.57        $ 0.92
                                                             =======      =======     =======      =======
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations
     attributable to Class E...........................       $ 0.45       $(0.41)     $   --        $   --
                                                             =======      =======     =======      =======
  Net earnings attributable to Class H.................       $ 0.78       $ 0.77      $ 0.63        $ 0.70
                                                             =======      =======     =======      =======
Cash dividends per share of common stocks
  $1 2/3 par value.....................................       $ 0.40       $ 0.40      $ 0.40        $ 0.40
  Class E..............................................       $ 0.15       $ 0.15      $   --        $   --
  Class H..............................................       $ 0.24       $ 0.24      $ 0.24        $ 0.24
Price range of common stocks
  $1 2/3 par value(6): High............................       $54.75       $58.13      $54.50        $59.38
                      Low                                     $46.88       $51.50      $45.75        $47.75
  Class E(6):..........................................
                      High                                    $58.00       $58.63      $   --        $   --
                      Low..............................       $50.00       $52.25      $   --        $   --
  Class H(6):..........................................
                      High                                    $63.38       $68.25      $61.38        $59.25
                      Low..............................       $45.00       $57.50      $53.13        $49.50
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
See notes on page II-43.
 
                                      II-42
<PAGE>   57
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION -- CONTINUED
 
- -------------------------
(1) Work stoppages in the United States and Canada, during the first and fourth
    quarters of 1996, reduced calendar-year pre-tax income by approximately $1.9
    billion ($1.2 billion after taxes or $1.56 per share of $1 2/3 par value
    common stock), after considering partial recovery of production losses from
    the work stoppages. The pre-tax impact in the 1996 fourth quarter totaled
    $1.1 billion ($700 million after taxes or $0.91 per share of $1 2/3 par
    value common stock).
 
(2) The 1996 first quarter income includes a pre-tax gain of $120 million ($72
    million after taxes or $0.07 per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock and
    $0.18 per share of Class H common stock), on the sale of 2.5% of DIRECTV(R)
    to AT&T.
 
(3) During the 1996 third quarter, GM-NAO/Delphi recorded a pre-tax plant
    closings reserve adjustment of $409 million ($253 million after taxes or
    $0.34 per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock), associated with GM's
    decision to utilize its Wilmington, Delaware facility for the assembly of
    the new generation Saturn vehicle.
 
(4) Fourth quarter 1996 results also included the following special items:
 
        (a) A pre-tax plant closings reserve adjustment of $318 million ($197
            million after taxes or $0.26 per share of $1 2/3 par value common
            stock), which primarily resulted from revised estimates of costs to
            be incurred in connection with plant closings, in light of changes
            in redeployment and other assumptions, including those resulting
            from the 1996 settlements with the UAW and CAW.
 
        (b) A pre-tax loss of $253 million ($157 million after taxes or $0.21
            per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock), in connection with the
            sale of four Delphi component facilities, located in Flint and
            Livonia, Mich., and Oshawa and Windsor, Canada, and GM-NAO's Oshawa
            die-management business.
 
        (c) A pre-tax gain of $105 million ($65 million after taxes or $0.09 per
            share of $1 2/3 par value common stock), on the sale of GM's
            preferred stock interest in Avis, Inc.
 
        (d) Retiree benefit increases associated with the new UAW labor
            agreement include lump-sum payments that resulted in a pre-tax
            charge of approximately $270 million ($167 million after taxes or
            $0.22 per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock).
 
(5) The income tax benefit in the fourth quarter of 1996 was primarily due to
    research and experimentation credits in the United States, as well as
    certain international tax benefits and tax benefits relating to the
    resolution of certain tax contingencies at Hughes.
 
(6) The principal market is the New York Stock Exchange and prices are based on
    the Composite Tape. $1 2/3 par value common stock is also listed on the
    Chicago, Pacific, and Philadelphia stock exchanges. As of December 31, 1996,
    there were 592,515 holders of record of $1 2/3 par value common stock and
    247,782 holders of record of Class H common stock.
 
                                      II-43
<PAGE>   58
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION -- CONTINUED
 
SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED) -- CONCLUDED
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              1995 QUARTERS
                                                          ------------------------------------------------------
                                                             1ST            2ND            3RD            4TH
                                                             ---            ---            ---            ---
                                                              (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                       <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
Net sales and revenues..................................  $  41,400      $  42,205      $  35,316      $  41,351
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========
Income from continuing operations before income taxes...  $   3,171      $   2,902      $     420      $   1,856(1)
Income taxes............................................      1,214            820             23(2)         259(1)
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
  Income from continuing operations before cumulative
    effect of accounting change.........................      1,957          2,082            397          1,597
Income from discontinued operations.....................        197            188            246            269
Cumulative effect of accounting change..................        (52)(3)         --             --             --
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
    Net income..........................................      2,102          2,270            643          1,866
Dividends on preference stocks..........................         72            199(4)          42             51
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
    Earnings on common stocks...........................  $   2,030      $   2,071      $     601      $   1,815
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========
Earnings attributable to common stocks
  $1 2/3 par value from continuing operations before
  cumulative
    effect of accounting change.........................  $   1,821      $   1,814      $     294      $   1,475
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations............         75            (18)            23             25
  Cumulative effect of accounting change................        (52)            --             --             --
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
    Net earnings attributable to $1 2/3 par value.......  $   1,844      $   1,796      $     317      $   1,500
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========
  Income from discontinued operations attributable to
    Class E.............................................  $     122      $     206      $     223      $     244
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========
Net earnings attributable to Class H....................  $      64      $      69      $      61      $      71
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========
Average number of shares of common stocks outstanding
  (in millions)
  $1 2/3 par value......................................        753            746            748            752
  Class E...............................................        300            439(5)         439            439
  Class H...............................................         94             95             96             97
Earnings per share attributable to common stocks
  $1 2/3 par value from continuing operations before
  cumulative
    effect of accounting change.........................      $2.41          $2.41          $0.39          $1.95
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations............       0.10          (0.02)          0.03           0.03
  Cumulative effect of accounting change................      (0.07)(3)         --             --             --
                                                          ---------      ---------      ---------      ---------
    Net earnings attributable to $1 2/3 par value.......      $2.44          $2.39          $0.42          $1.98
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========
Income from discontinued operations attributable to
  Class E...............................................      $0.42          $0.47          $0.51          $0.56
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========
Net earnings attributable to Class H....................      $0.67          $0.72          $0.64          $0.74
                                                          =========      =========      =========      =========
Cash dividends per share of common stocks
  $1 2/3 par value......................................      $0.20          $0.30          $0.30          $0.30
  Class E...............................................      $0.13          $0.13          $0.13          $0.13
  Class H...............................................      $0.23          $0.23          $0.23          $0.23
Price range of common stocks
  $1 2/3 par value: High................................     $45.63         $49.00         $51.88         $53.13
                  Low...................................     $37.25         $42.38         $45.38         $43.38
  Class E:       High...................................     $41.38         $45.25         $47.50         $52.63
                  Low...................................     $36.88         $38.38         $41.50         $43.88
  Class H:       High...................................     $41.75         $41.63         $42.75         $50.00
                  Low...................................     $33.25         $37.75         $39.13         $39.50
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Income taxes and interest expense in the fourth quarter reflect benefits
    related to the resolution of worldwide prior year income tax issues. Income
    taxes also reflect the benefit of a U.S. net operating loss carryback -- for
    tax purposes only -- to years with higher tax rates.
 
(2) The effective income tax rate in the third quarter reflects tax benefits
    from the mix of foreign income and foreign income taxes.
 
(3) In November 1995, the Corporation adopted, retroactive to January 1, 1995,
    the provisions of the EITF consensus on Issue No. 95-1. The unfavorable
    cumulative effect of this accounting change was $52 million or $0.07 per
    share of $1 2/3 par value common stock. Previously reported first quarter
    results were restated to reflect the effects of adoption. The effect on
    other 1995 quarters was not material.
 
(4) Includes a $153 million tender offer premium associated with the repurchase
    of a portion of the Series B, D, and G preference stocks.
 
(5) Reflects Class E common stock contribution to the U.S. Hourly Pension Plan.
 
                                      II-44
<PAGE>   59
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION -- CONTINUED
 
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                           ------------------------------------------------
                                                              1996               1995               1994
                                                              ----               ----               ----
                                                            (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                        <C>                <C>                <C>
Net sales and revenues.................................      $164,069           $160,272           $148,499
Income from continuing operations before income
  taxes................................................      $  6,676(1)        $  8,349           $  7,098
Percentage of net sales and revenues...................           4.1%               5.2%               4.8%
                                                             ========           ========           ========
Income from continuing operations before cumulative
  effect of accounting changes.........................      $  4,953(1)        $  6,033           $  4,866
Income from discontinued operations....................            10                900                793
Cumulative effect of accounting changes................            --                (52)(2)           (758)(4)
                                                             --------           --------           --------
     Net income........................................      $  4,963           $  6,881           $  4,901
                                                             ========           ========           ========
Earnings on common stocks..............................      $  4,882           $  6,517           $  4,580
                                                             ========           ========           ========
Rate of return on average common stockholders'
  equity...............................................          22.5%              54.2%(3)           79.9%(3)
                                                             ========           ========           ========
$1 2/3 par value common stock
  Earnings from continuing operations attributable
     to................................................      $  4,589(1)        $  5,352(2)        $  3,545(4)
  Income (loss) from discontinued operations
     attributable to...................................            (5)               105                349
  Cash dividends.......................................         1,209                824                593
                                                             --------           --------           --------
     Net earnings retained.............................      $  3,375           $  4,633           $  3,301
                                                             ========           ========           ========
  Earnings per share from continuing operations........        $ 6.07(1)           $7.07(2)           $4.69(4)
  Income (loss) per share from discontinued
     operations........................................         (0.01)              0.14               0.46
  Cash dividends per share.............................          1.60               1.10               0.80
                                                             --------           --------           --------
     Net earnings retained per share...................        $ 4.46              $6.11              $4.35
                                                             ========           ========           ========
Class E common stock
  Income from discontinued operations attributable
     to................................................        $   15              $ 795              $ 444
  Cash dividends.......................................           145                205                125
                                                             --------           --------           --------
     Net income retained (loss accumulated)............        $ (130)             $ 590              $ 319
                                                             ========           ========           ========
  Income per share.....................................        $ 0.04              $1.96              $1.71
  Cash dividends per share.............................          0.30               0.52               0.48
                                                             --------           --------           --------
     Net income retained (loss accumulated) per
       share...........................................        $(0.26)             $1.44              $1.23
                                                             ========           ========           ========
Class H common stock
  Earnings attributable to.............................         $ 283              $ 265              $ 242(4)
  Cash dividends.......................................            94                 88                 74
                                                             --------           --------           --------
     Net earnings retained.............................         $ 189              $ 177              $ 168
                                                             ========           ========           ========
  Earnings per share...................................        $ 2.88              $2.77              $2.62(4)
  Cash dividends per share.............................          0.96               0.92               0.80
                                                             --------           --------           --------
     Net earnings retained per share...................        $ 1.92              $1.85              $1.82
                                                             ========           ========           ========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
See notes on page II-47.
 
                                      II-45
<PAGE>   60
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION -- CONTINUED
 
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) -- CONTINUED
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ---------------------------
                                                                  1993              1992
                                                                  ----              ----
                                                                (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT
                                                                    PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                             <C>               <C>
Net sales and revenues......................................     $132,991          $127,378
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income
  taxes.....................................................     $  1,479          $ (4,299)
Percentage of net sales and revenues........................          1.1%             (3.4)%
                                                                 ========          ========
Income (loss) from continuing operations before cumulative
  effect of accounting changes..............................     $  1,777          $ (3,222)
Income from discontinued operations.........................          689               601
Cumulative effect of accounting changes.....................           --           (20,877)(5)
                                                                 --------          --------
  Net income (loss).........................................     $  2,466          $(23,498)
                                                                 ========          ========
Earnings (loss) on common stocks............................     $  2,109          $(23,805)
Rate of return on average common stockholders' equity.......        104.2%(3)        (169.3)%
                                                                 ========          ========
$1 2/3 par value common stock
  Earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable
     to.....................................................     $  1,216          $(24,263)(5)
  Income from discontinued operations attributable to.......          322               322
  Cash dividends............................................          566               945
                                                                 --------          --------
     Net earnings retained (loss accumulated)...............     $    972          $(24,886)
                                                                 ========          ========
  Earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations......        $1.68           $(38.76)(5)
  Income per share from discontinued operations.............         0.45              0.48
  Cash dividends per share..................................         0.80              1.40
                                                                 --------          --------
     Net earnings retained (loss accumulated) per share.....        $1.33           $(39.68)
                                                                 ========          ========
Class E common stock
  Income from discontinued operations attributable to.......        $ 367           $   278
  Cash dividends............................................           97                76
                                                                 --------          --------
     Net income retained....................................        $ 270           $   202
                                                                 ========          ========
  Income per share..........................................        $1.51           $  1.33
  Cash dividends per share..................................         0.40              0.36
                                                                 --------          --------
     Net income retained per share..........................        $1.11            $ 0.97
                                                                 ========          ========
Class H common stock
  Earnings (loss) attributable to...........................        $ 204            $ (142)(5)
  Cash dividends............................................           64                53
                                                                 --------          --------
     Net earnings retained (loss accumulated)...............        $ 140            $ (195)
                                                                 ========          ========
  Earnings (loss) per share.................................        $2.30           $ (2.29)(5)
  Cash dividends per share..................................         0.72              0.72
                                                                 --------          --------
     Net earnings retained (loss accumulated) per share.....        $1.58           $ (3.01)
                                                                 ========          ========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
See notes on page II-47.
 
                                      II-46
<PAGE>   61
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION -- CONCLUDED
 
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) -- CONCLUDED
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       AS OF AND FOR THE
                                                                    YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ------------------------------------
                                                                1996          1995          1994
                                                                ----          ----          ----
                                                                     (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>           <C>           <C>
Average number of shares of common stocks outstanding (in
  millions)
  $1 2/3 par value..........................................       756           750           741
  Class E...................................................       470           405           260
  Class H...................................................        98            96            92
Cash dividends on common stocks as a % of net income........      29.2%         16.2%         16.2%
Expenditures for property...................................  $  9,949      $  8,786      $  6,023
Cash and marketable securities..............................  $ 22,262      $ 16,018      $ 15,331
Working capital(6)..........................................  $  1,699      $  5,726      $   (627)
Current ratio(6)............................................      1.04          1.14          0.98
Total assets................................................  $222,142      $213,663      $191,145
Long-term debt and capitalized leases(6)....................  $  5,390      $  4,280      $  5,198
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   AS OF AND FOR THE
                                                                YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ------------------------
                                                                  1993           1992
                                                                  ----           ----
                                                                 (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>            <C>
Average number of shares of common stocks outstanding (in
  millions)
  $1 2/3 par value..........................................          710            670
  Class E...................................................          243            209
  Class H...................................................           89             75
Cash dividends on capital stocks as a % of net income.......        29.5%            N/A
Expenditures for property...................................     $  5,655       $  5,951
Cash and marketable securities..............................     $ 17,369       $ 14,533
Working capital(6)..........................................     $  1,937       $ 10,264
Current ratio(6)............................................         1.08           1.32
Total assets................................................     $182,388       $184,287
Long-term debt and capitalized leases(6)....................     $  5,861       $  6,495
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Work stoppages in the United States and Canada, during the first and fourth
    quarters of 1996, reduced 1996 pre-tax income by approximately $1.9 billion
    ($1.2 billion after taxes or $1.56 per share of $1 2/3 par value common
    stock), after considering partial recovery of production losses from the
    work stoppages.
 
(2) In November 1995, the Corporation adopted, retroactive to January 1, 1995,
    the provisions of the EITF consensus on Issue No. 95-1. The unfavorable
    effect of this accounting change was $52 million or $0.07 per share of
    $1 2/3 par value common stock.
 
(3) The returns in 1995, 1994 and 1993 reflect the adoption of SFAS No. 106 and
    its impact on lowering average common stockholders' equity.
 
(4) General Motors adopted SFAS No. 112, Employers' Accounting for
    Postemployment Benefits, effective January 1, 1994. The unfavorable
    cumulative effect of adopting SFAS No. 112 was $751 million or $1.05 per
    share of $1 2/3 par value common stock and $7 million or $0.08 per share of
    Class H common stock.
 
(5) General Motors adopted SFAS No. 106, Employers' Accounting for
    Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions, effective January 1, 1992. The
    unfavorable cumulative effect of adopting SFAS No. 106 was $20.7 billion or
    $33.38 per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock and $150 million or $2.08
    per share of Class H common stock. Also effective January 1, 1992, Hughes
    changed its revenue recognition policy for certain commercial businesses,
    which resulted in an unfavorable effect on 1992 earnings of $33 million or
    $0.05 per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock and $7 million or $0.10 per
    share of Class H common stock.
 
(6) Calculated with financing and insurance operations on an equity basis.
 
                                      II-47
<PAGE>   62
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
 
     The following management's discussion and analysis of financial condition
and results of operations (MD&A) should be read in conjunction with the Hughes
Electronics Corporation (Hughes) consolidated financial statements and MD&A for
the period ended December 31, 1996, included as Exhibit 99 to this Annual Report
on Form 10-K, and the GMAC Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended
December 31, 1996, filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
GM-NAO/DELPHI FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ---------------------------------------
                                                                1996          1995             1994
                                                                ----          ----             ----
                                                                       (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>           <C>              <C>
Net sales and revenues
  Vehicles and service parts..............................    $ 93,381      $ 95,936         $ 91,768
  Components..............................................      26,002        26,426           26,097
  Intrasector eliminations................................     (18,381)      (19,109)         (19,732)
                                                              --------      --------         --------
     Total net sales and revenues.........................     101,002       103,253           98,133
                                                              --------      --------         --------
Pre-tax income............................................       1,206         3,346            1,589
Income taxes..............................................          44           962              268
Earnings of nonconsolidated affiliates....................          84            64               61
Cumulative effect of accounting changes...................          --           (52)(1)         (705)(2)
                                                              --------      --------         --------
     Net income...........................................    $  1,246      $  2,396         $    677
                                                              ========      ========         ========
     Net profit margin (3)................................        1.2%          2.3%             0.7%
Depreciation and amortization expenses....................    $  4,916      $  4,664         $  4,324
Capital expenditures......................................    $  6,158      $  6,013         $  3,976
Worldwide employment at December 31 (in thousands)........         424           434              431
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) In November 1995, the provisions of Issue No. 95-1 of the Emerging Issues
    Task Force of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (EITF), Revenue
    Recognition on Sales with a Guaranteed Minimum Resale Value, were
    retroactively adopted to January 1, 1995 and resulted in an unfavorable
    impact of $52 million.
(2) Effective January 1, 1994, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
    (SFAS) No. 112, Employers' Accounting for Postemployment Benefits, was
    adopted and resulted in an unfavorable impact of $705 million.
(3) Net profit margin represents net income as a percentage of total net sales
    and revenues.
 
VEHICLE UNIT DELIVERIES OF CARS AND TRUCKS -- GM-NAO
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                             ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        1996                          1995                          1994
                             ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
                                                 GM AS                         GM AS                         GM AS
                                                 A % OF                        A % OF                        A % OF
                             INDUSTRY    GM     INDUSTRY   INDUSTRY    GM     INDUSTRY   INDUSTRY    GM     INDUSTRY
                             --------    --     --------   --------    --     --------   --------    --     --------
<S>                          <C>        <C>     <C>        <C>        <C>     <C>        <C>        <C>     <C>
United States
  Cars.....................    8,528    2,786    32.7%       8,636    2,956    34.2%       8,991    3,079    34.3%
  Trucks...................    6,931    2,007    29.0%       6,484    1,939    29.9%       6,422    1,984    30.9%
                              ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
     Total U.S.(1).........   15,459    4,793    31.0%      15,120    4,895    32.4%      15,413    5,063    32.8%
Canada.....................    1,203      381    31.6%       1,165      385    33.0%       1,258      410    32.6%
Mexico.....................      332       89    26.9%         232       48    20.7%         620      114    18.3%
                              ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
     Total North America...   16,994    5,263    31.0%      16,517    5,328    32.3%      17,291    5,587    32.3%
                              ======    =====               ======    =====               ======    =====
WHOLESALE SALES -- GM-NAO
  Cars.....................             2,913                         3,352                         3,353
  Trucks...................             2,239                         2,208                         2,184
                                        -----                         -----                         -----
     Total.................             5,152                         5,560                         5,537
                                        =====                         =====                         =====
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Industry deliveries include foreign brands of 4.2 million units or 27.1% in
    1996, 4.1 million units or 26.8% in 1995, and 4.1 million units or 26.8% in
    1994.
 
                                      II-48
<PAGE>   63
 
GM-NAO/DELPHI FINANCIAL REVIEW
 
     The 1996 net income of GM-NAO/Delphi, which represents the combined results
for General Motors' North American Operations (GM-NAO) and Delphi Automotive
Systems (Delphi), totaled $1.2 billion or 1.2% of net sales and revenues,
compared with $2.4 billion and $677 million in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The
decrease in 1996 net income was almost fully accounted for by lower wholesale
sales caused by three major work stoppages. Other factors impacting 1996 results
were the record number of new vehicle launches, and increased advertising and
other consumer influence expenses related to the new vehicle launches, partially
offset by savings associated with continued implementation of worldwide
purchasing and lean manufacturing strategies. The increase in 1995 net income
was primarily due to revenue growth, global sourcing savings, and reduced
manufacturing costs.
 
     GM-NAO/Delphi's 1996 net income included certain special items that had a
net unfavorable impact of approximately $900 million after-tax. The 1996 special
items included the unfavorable impact of the three work stoppages in the U.S.
and Canada (approximately $1.1 billion after-tax), the sale of four Delphi
plants and GM-NAO's Oshawa die-management business ($157 million after-tax), and
retiree lump sum benefit payments ($163 million after-tax). The effect of the
unfavorable special items was partially offset by favorable net plant closings
reserve adjustments ($450 million after-tax) and a gain on the sale of GM's
preferred stock interest in Avis, Inc. ($65 million after-tax). Additional
information regarding the GM-NAO plant closings reserve is contained in Note 17
to the GM consolidated financial statements.
 
     Net sales and revenues for 1996 were $101 billion, which represented a
decrease of $2.3 billion compared with 1995. The decrease in net sales and
revenues was largely due to a decrease in the number of wholesale units sold
caused by the work stoppages, partially offset by an increase of approximately
6% in Delphi's non GM-NAO vehicle component sales. Net sales and revenues for
1995 were $103.3 billion, which represented an increase of $5.1 billion compared
with 1994. The increase in 1995 net sales and revenues primarily resulted from
favorable pricing, an increase of 23,000 wholesale units sold, and an increase
of approximately 9% in Delphi's non GM-NAO vehicle component sales. The
favorable items were partially offset by a year-over-year shift in vehicle sales
from the large/luxury segments to the small/compact segments.
 
     During 1996, GM-NAO's market share increase in Mexico resulted from
favorable customer reaction to new products. However, in the United States and
Canada, market share decreased primarily due to the work stoppages and the new
vehicle launches, which restricted availability of certain models.
 
     Pre-tax income for 1996 decreased by $2.1 billion to $1.2 billion, compared
with $3.3 billion and $1.6 billion for 1995 and 1994, respectively. The decrease
in 1996 pre-tax income was primarily due to the impact of the special items
described previously and the record number of new vehicle launches, partially
offset by the favorable results of continued efforts to reduce costs and improve
efficiency. The increase in 1995 pre-tax income, compared with 1994, reflected
material and manufacturing efficiencies and lower interest expense, which were
partially offset by increased depreciation and amortization expenses associated
with new equipment and special tools.
 
     The effective income tax rate for 1996 was 3.6%, compared with 28.8% and
16.9% for 1995 and 1994, respectively. The lower 1996 tax rate resulted from
research and experimentation credits in the United States, a favorable
resolution of items related to GM's 1995 tax return, and a favorable tax
position in Mexico. The 1995 tax rate reflected a U.S. net operating loss -- for
tax purposes only -- which was carried back to prior years that were subject to
higher income tax rates, while the 1994 tax rate reflected favorable tax
positions in Canada and Mexico.
 
                                      II-49
<PAGE>   64
 
GMIO FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                -----------------------------
                                                                 1996       1995       1994
                                                                 ----       ----       ----
                                                                    (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>        <C>        <C>
Net sales and revenues......................................    $35,251    $32,112    $28,087
                                                                -------    -------    -------
Pre-tax income..............................................      1,787      1,601      2,232
Income taxes................................................        307        162        818
Earnings of nonconsolidated affiliates......................         52        205        161
                                                                -------    -------    -------
  Net income
     GM Europe (GME)........................................        778        796        695
     Other International....................................        754        848        880
                                                                -------    -------    -------
          Total net income..................................    $ 1,532    $ 1,644    $ 1,575
                                                                =======    =======    =======
          Net profit margin(1)..............................        4.3%       5.1%       5.6%
Depreciation and amortization expenses......................    $ 1,486    $ 1,364    $ 1,202
Capital expenditures........................................    $ 2,669    $ 2,086    $ 1,388
Worldwide employment at December 31 (in thousands)..........        111        103        102
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Net profit margin represents total net income as a percentage of net sales
    and revenues.
 
VEHICLE UNIT DELIVERIES OF CARS AND TRUCKS -- GMIO
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                               ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          1996                          1995                          1994
                               ---------------------------   ---------------------------   ---------------------------
                                                   GM AS                         GM AS                         GM AS
                                                   A % OF                        A % OF                        A % OF
                               INDUSTRY    GM     INDUSTRY   INDUSTRY    GM     INDUSTRY   INDUSTRY    GM     INDUSTRY
                               --------    --     --------   --------    --     --------   --------    --     --------
                                                                (UNITS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                            <C>        <C>     <C>        <C>        <C>     <C>        <C>        <C>     <C>
INTERNATIONAL
Europe
  Germany...................     3,752      582    15.5%       3,575      581    16.2%       3,470      553    15.9%
  United Kingdom............     2,281      326    14.3%       2,195      334    15.2%       2,139      347    16.2%
  Other West Europe.........     8,414      787     9.4%       7,850      751     9.6%       7,831      752     9.6%
                                ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
     Total West Europe......    14,447    1,695    11.7%      13,620    1,666    12.2%      13,440    1,652    12.3%
  Central/East Europe.......     2,583      103     4.0%       2,023       59     2.9%       1,764       53     3.0%
                                ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
     Total Europe...........    17,030    1,798    10.6%      15,643    1,725    11.0%      15,204    1,705    11.2%
                                ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
Latin America, Africa, and
  the Middle East (LAAMO)
  Brazil....................     1,729      384    22.2%       1,728      348    20.2%       1,398      269    19.3%
  Venezuela.................        68       16    23.6%          89       28    31.6%          75       22    30.0%
  Other Latin America.......     1,031      142    13.8%         999      127    12.7%       1,174      125    10.6%
                                ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
     Total Latin America....     2,828      542    19.2%       2,816      503    17.9%       2,647      416    15.7%
  Africa....................       680       85    12.5%         638       87    13.7%         500       63    12.5%
  Middle East...............       628       64    10.2%         560       58    10.4%         607       63    10.4%
                                ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
     Total LAAMO............     4,136      691    16.7%       4,014      648    16.2%       3,754      542    14.4%
                                ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
Asia and Pacific
  Australia.................       650      131    20.1%         642      129    20.2%         616      122    19.8%
  Other Asia and Pacific....    12,903      498     3.9%      12,554      490     3.9%      11,854      425     3.6%
                                ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
     Total Asia and
       Pacific..............    13,553      629     4.6%      13,196      619     4.7%      12,470      547     4.4%
                                ------    -----               ------    -----               ------    -----
     Total International....    34,719    3,118     9.0%      32,853    2,992     9.1%      31,428    2,794     8.9%
                                ======    =====               ======    =====               ======    =====
WHOLESALE SALES -- GMIO
  Cars......................              2,331                         2,233                         2,127
  Trucks....................                780                           774                           664
                                          -----                         -----                         -----
     Total..................              3,111                         3,007                         2,791
                                          =====                         =====                         =====
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-50
<PAGE>   65
 
GMIO FINANCIAL REVIEW
 
     General Motors' International Operations (GMIO) 1996 net income was $1.5
billion or 4.3% of net sales and revenues, compared with $1.6 billion in both
1995 and 1994. The decrease in 1996 net income was primarily due to a higher
income tax rate.
 
     Net sales and revenues for 1996 reached $35.3 billion, up 9.8% from 1995,
while 1995 net sales and revenues of $32.1 billion were 14.3% higher than 1994.
The increase in net sales and revenues in 1996 and 1995 reflected increased
wholesale sales volumes in Europe, Latin America, and the Asian and Pacific
region. GMIO's vehicle deliveries for calendar year 1996 totaled 3.1 million
units and resulted in a 9% market share compared with a 9.1% market share in
1995. Vehicle unit deliveries during 1996 hit an all-time record, marking the
first time GMIO annual deliveries exceeded three million units.
 
     Pre-tax income for 1996 increased to $1.8 billion from $1.6 billion in 1995
and reflected the favorable impact of increased net sales and revenues and
favorable year-over-year currency exchange, partially offset by spending on
growth programs within Asia, Latin America, and Central Europe, and new product
development spending. In 1995, pre-tax income declined by $631 million compared
with 1994. This reduction was largely the result of adverse foreign exchange
rate movements, material and labor cost pressures in Latin America, and start-up
and launch costs associated with the introduction of the new Opel/Vauxhall
Vectra in Europe.
 
     In 1996, earnings of nonconsolidated affiliates were down by $153 million
from 1995, primarily due to higher product development and marketing costs at
Saab, the dissolution of the Australian joint venture between Holden and Toyota,
and the unusually high 1995 equity income from nonrecurring asset sales at
Isuzu.
 
     The effective income tax rate for GMIO in 1996 was 17.2%, compared with
10.1% and 36.6% in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The 1996 tax rate primarily
resulted from tax benefits realized in certain countries, partially offset by
decreased withholding taxes accrued on unremitted earnings. The 1995 tax rate
was favorably impacted by nonrecurring tax benefits realized in certain
countries, while the 1994 tax rate was impacted by higher withholding taxes on
accrued unremitted earnings.
 
     In 1996, GME's net income decreased by $18 million to $778 million,
compared with $796 million and $695 million in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The
decrease in 1996 net income was primarily due to a more competitive pricing
environment and reflected increased new product development costs. Net income
for 1996 was also adversely affected by the startup of the Vectra, which had
restricted availability early in the year. The improvement in 1995 net income
resulted from volume gains, material and manufacturing cost reductions, and a
favorable income tax rate, partially offset by unfavorable exchange rate
movements and costs associated with the new Vectra model introduction in the
second half of the year.
 
     The remainder of GMIO's operations reported 1996 net income of $754
million, which represented a decrease of $94 million compared with 1995. The
decline in 1996 resulted from a higher tax rate, lower equity earnings from
nonconsolidated affiliates, and increased spending on growth programs in both
Asia and Latin America. The decline in net income in 1995 compared with 1994
reflected the impact of the government initiated "Popular Car" program in
Brazil, which had a negative impact on sales mix; adverse exchange rate
movements; material and labor cost pressures in Latin America; and continued
growth-related expenditures in the Asia and Pacific region. These factors were
partially offset by a favorable income tax rate, improved volumes, and income
gains from nonconsolidated affiliates.
 
     Finally in 1996, GMIO reinforced its long-term commitment to leadership in
the international automotive business with capital expenditures of approximately
$2.7 billion, an increase of $565 million and approximately $1.3 billion
compared with 1995 and 1994, respectively.
 
                                      II-51
<PAGE>   66
 
GMAC FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ---------------------------
                                                               1996      1995      1994
                                                               ----      ----      ----
                                                                 (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>       <C>       <C>
Financing revenue
  Retail and lease financing................................  $ 3,822   $ 3,292   $ 2,955
  Operating leases..........................................    7,215     6,285     4,856
  Wholesale and term loans..................................    1,607     2,087     1,608
                                                              -------   -------   -------
     Total financing revenue................................   12,644    11,664     9,419
Interest and discount.......................................    4,938     4,936     4,231
Depreciation on operating leases............................    4,627     4,305     3,234
                                                              -------   -------   -------
     Net financing revenue                                      3,079     2,423     1,954
Other income and insurance premiums earned                      3,330     3,199     2,726
Expenses....................................................   (4,332)   (3,839)   (3,240)
                                                              -------   -------   -------
Pre-tax income..............................................    2,077     1,783     1,440
Income taxes................................................      837       752       513
Cumulative effect of accounting change(1)...................       --        --        (7)
                                                              -------   -------   -------
     Net income.............................................  $ 1,240   $ 1,031   $   920
                                                              =======   =======   =======
Net income from financing operations(2).....................  $ 1,048   $   868   $   802
Net income from insurance operations........................      192       163       118
                                                              -------   -------   -------
     Net income.............................................  $ 1,240   $ 1,031   $   920
                                                              =======   =======   =======
Average earning assets......................................  $92,534   $88,230   $79,483
Return on average equity(3).................................     14.8%     12.5%     11.6%
Worldwide employment at December 31 (in thousands)..........       18        17        17
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Effective January 1, 1994, GMAC adopted SFAS No. 112, which resulted in an
    unfavorable impact of $7 million.
 
(2) Includes GMAC Mortgage Group (GMACMG).
 
(3) Return on average equity represents net income after the cumulative effect
    of accounting change as a percentage of average stockholder's equity
    outstanding for each month in the period.
 
                                      II-52
<PAGE>   67
 
GMAC FINANCIAL REVIEW
 
     GMAC's 1996 consolidated net income increased 20.3% over 1995 compared with
a 12.1% improvement recognized in 1995. All business sectors contributed to the
1996 earnings gain. Net income from financing operations totaled $1 billion,
which was 20.7% above 1995. The increase in 1996 net income from financing
operations primarily resulted from continued improvements in net financing
revenue and higher average earning asset levels in North America, principally in
the retail finance receivables and operating lease portfolios, and earnings
growth at GMACMG. The 8.2% increase in 1995 net income from financing operations
over 1994 resulted primarily from improved net financing revenue and higher
average earning asset levels.
 
     Insurance operations contributed $192 million to 1996 net income, compared
with $163 million and $118 million in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The 1996 and
1995 year-over-year increases reflected improvements in underwriting results and
higher realized capital gains.
 
     During 1996, GMAC financed 28.4% of new GM vehicle retail deliveries in the
United States, up from 26.4% and 26.2% in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The 1996
improvement primarily resulted from higher volumes generated during the first
nine months of the year under special rate financing and leasing incentive
programs sponsored by GM. This improvement, along with the modest 1995 increase
in market share, was achieved amid continued competitive pressures in the
automotive financing marketplace.
 
     GMAC's financing revenue totaled $12.6 billion in 1996, compared with $11.7
billion and $9.4 billion in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The increase in 1996
total financing revenue resulted from higher revenues from the portfolios of
operating leases and retail finance receivables, partially offset by a decline
in wholesale revenue. The gain in operating lease revenue was principally driven
by an increase in average lease assets in North America, which resulted from
continued growth of the portfolio. The higher 1996 retail financing revenues
were primarily due to a $3.9 billion increase in average U.S. outstanding
balances, which resulted from growth of the owned portfolio between mid-1995 and
mid-1996. The reduced wholesale revenue was primarily due to a combination of
lower average outstanding balances caused by establishing additional trusts for
revolving sales of floor plan receivables during August 1995 and April 1996 and
lower short-term interest rate indices upon which inventory financing rates are
based. The 23.8% growth in 1995 total financing revenue represented increased
activities in all financing business lines, predominantly operating leases and
wholesale financing.
 
     GMAC's worldwide cost of borrowing decreased to 6.57% in 1996, compared
with 7.02% and 6.69% in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The cost of borrowings in
the United States was 6.51% in 1996, compared with 6.86% and 6.48% in 1995 and
1994, respectively. The improvements in 1996 were predominantly attributable to
a greater proportion of floating rate borrowings in the United States during a
period in which the general level of short-term interest rates declined (e.g.,
during 1996, the U.S. prime lending rate averaged 56 basis points below 1995).
The lower 1996 borrowing cost factors almost entirely offset the effects of
higher average borrowings, which resulted in only a $2 million increase in
interest and discount expense in 1996 compared with the 1995 amount. The 1995
interest and discount expense was $705 million above the 1994 amount due to
increased borrowing levels and higher interest rates.
 
     Net financing revenue combined with other income and insurance premiums
increased in 1996 by $787 million to $6.4 billion, compared with $5.6 billion
and $4.7 billion in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The 1996 increase was primarily
due to improvement in net interest margins. In addition to the increase in net
interest margins, the 1995 increase was also the result of a rise in other
income that was primarily attributable to significantly higher fee and
investment income from GMACMG activities.
 
     Expenses increased by $493 million and $599 million in 1996 and 1995
primarily due to increases in the provision for financing losses of $220 million
and $272 million, respectively. Consistent with recent trends in the consumer
finance industry, GMAC's delinquencies and losses have increased since 1994,
particularly in the United States used vehicle financing portfolio. Additions to
the loss reserve as well as tightened credit standards and intensified
collection efforts are expected to mitigate GMAC's exposure to further adverse
trends in consumer payment experience. Additionally, GMAC incurred higher costs
for salaries, benefits, and other operating charges incidental to expanding
financing business activities, which contributed to the increased expenses for
both 1996 and 1995.
 
     GMAC's effective income tax rate for 1996 was 40.3%, compared with 42.2% in
1995 and 35.6% in 1994. The favorable change in 1996 was attributable to lower
effective income tax rates for international financing operations. The 1995
increase over 1994 reflected higher U.S. and foreign taxes assessed on foreign
source income.
 
                                      II-53
<PAGE>   68
 
HUGHES FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                -----------------------------
                                                                 1996       1995       1994
                                                                 ----       ----       ----
                                                                    (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS
                                                                  EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                             <C>        <C>        <C>
Net sales
  Outside customers.........................................    $10,661    $ 9,529    $ 9,109
  GM and affiliates.........................................      5,083      5,185      4,953
                                                                -------    -------    -------
     Total net sales........................................     15,744     14,714     14,062
Other income -- net.........................................        174         58         37
                                                                -------    -------    -------
     Total revenues.........................................     15,918     14,772     14,099
                                                                -------    -------    -------
Pre-tax income..............................................      1,635      1,594      1,528
Income taxes................................................        606        646        573
Cumulative effect of accounting change......................         --         --        (30)
                                                                -------    -------    -------
     Net income.............................................    $ 1,029    $   948    $   925(1)
                                                                =======    =======    =======
     Earnings Used for Computation of Available Separate
       Consolidated Net Income(2)...........................    $ 1,151    $ 1,108    $ 1,049(1)
                                                                =======    =======    =======
Net earnings attributable to Class H common stock on a per
  share basis...............................................    $  2.88    $  2.77    $  2.62(1)
Cash dividends per share of Class H common stock............    $  0.96    $  0.92    $  0.80
Depreciation and amortization expenses(2)...................    $   560    $   488    $   470
Capital expenditures(3).....................................    $   840    $   820    $   746
Worldwide employment at December 31 (in thousands)..........         86         84         79
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Effective January 1, 1994, SFAS No. 112 was adopted, which resulted in an
    unfavorable impact of $30 million or $0.08 per share of Class H common
    stock.
 
(2) Excludes amortization and adjustment of GM purchase accounting adjustments
    of $122 million, $160 million, and $124 million, for 1996, 1995, and 1994,
    respectively, related to GM's acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company.
 
(3) Includes expenditures related to telecommunications and other equipment
    amounting to $188 million, $275 million, and $256 million in 1996, 1995, and
    1994, respectively.
 
SEGMENT HIGHLIGHTS
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>         <C>         <C>
Telecommunications and Space
  Revenues..................................................    $4,115      $3,093      $2,596
  Net sales.................................................    $3,992      $3,076      $2,634
  Operating profit(1).......................................    $  260      $  189      $  271
  Operating profit margin(2)................................       6.5%        6.2%       10.3%
Automotive Electronics
  Revenues..................................................    $5,351      $5,561      $5,222
  Net sales.................................................    $5,311      $5,480      $5,171
  Operating profit(1).......................................    $  654      $  869      $  795
  Operating profit margin(2)................................      12.3%       15.9%       15.4%
Aerospace and Defense Systems
  Revenues..................................................    $6,338      $5,945      $6,024
  Net sales.................................................    $6,332      $5,900      $6,007
  Operating profit(1).......................................    $  695      $  688      $  664
  Operating profit margin(2)................................      11.0%       11.7%       11.0%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Operating profit represents net sales less total costs and expenses other
    than interest expense and amortization of purchase accounting adjustments
    related to GM's acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company.
 
(2) Operating profit margin represents operating profit as a percentage of net
    sales.
 
                                      II-54
<PAGE>   69
 
HUGHES FINANCIAL REVIEW
 
     Hughes reported net income of $1 billion in 1996, compared with $948
million and $925 million in 1995 and 1994, respectively. Excluding amortization
and adjustment of purchase accounting adjustments relating to GM's acquisition
of Hughes Aircraft Company, Hughes' earnings used for computation of available
separate consolidated net income was $1.15 billion in 1996, compared with $1.11
billion in 1995 and $1.05 billion in 1994. Contributing to the 1996 increase in
net income was higher operating profit in the Telecommunications and Space
segment, reduced losses at Hughes-Avicom International, Inc., a lower effective
tax rate, and the $72 million after-tax gain recognized in the first quarter
from the sale of a 2.5% equity interest in DIRECTV(R) to AT&T. Partially
offsetting these increases was the impact on the Automotive Electronics segment
operating profit of lower GM production volumes attributable primarily to the
three major work stoppages. The increase in 1995 net income was due primarily to
increased revenues and on-going cost reduction efforts, partially offset by the
planned increase in expenses associated with the operation and expansion of
DIRECTV.
 
     Total revenues increased to $15.9 billion in 1996, compared with $14.8
billion in 1995 and $14.1 billion in 1994. This revenue growth was propelled by
the Telecommunications and Space segment where revenues for 1996 increased to
$4.1 billion, compared with $3.1 billion and $2.6 billion in 1995 and 1994,
respectively. The increases in 1996 and 1995 revenues reflected DIRECTV
subscriber growth combined with increased sales of commercial satellites and
cellular communications equipment, and increased video distribution revenues
from Galaxy(R) satellite transponders. Automotive Electronics segment revenues
for 1996 were $5.4 billion, compared with $5.6 billion and $5.2 billion in 1995
and 1994, respectively. The 1996 decrease reflected the impact of the work
stoppages at various GM production locations during the year and the price
reductions from competitive pricing in connection with GM's global sourcing
initiative. The increase in Automotive Electronics segment revenues in 1995
resulted from an increase in Hughes-supplied electronic content in GM vehicles
produced in North America and continued growth of sales to international and non
GM-NAO customers. Aerospace and Defense Systems segment revenues for 1996
increased to $6.3 billion, compared with $5.9 billion and $6 billion in 1995 and
1994, respectively. The 1996 increase in revenues was due primarily to the
acquisition of Hughes Defense Communications (formerly Magnavox Electronic
Systems Company) in December 1995.
 
     Operating profit, excluding amortization of purchase accounting adjustments
related to GM's acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company, was $1.6 billion in
1996, compared with $1.7 billion and $1.6 billion in 1995 and 1994,
respectively. Operating profit margin on the same basis was 10.1%, 11.3%, and
11.6% in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. The decline in 1996 operating
profit and operating profit margin was due mainly to the unfavorable impact of
lower GM production volumes on the Automotive Electronics segment as a result of
the aforementioned work stoppages. The 1995 decrease in operating profit margin
was primarily a result of increased operating expenses associated with the
continued expansion of DIRECTV, partially offset by higher margins in the
Automotive Electronics and Aerospace and Defense Systems segments resulting from
cost-reduction programs.
 
     Hughes' effective income tax rate was 37.1% in 1996, compared with 40.5%
and 37.5% in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The decrease in the effective income
tax rate in 1996 was due primarily to the favorable resolution of certain tax
contingencies while the effective income tax rate in 1994 was favorably impacted
by the recognition of capital loss carryforward benefits.
 
     On January 16, 1997, GM and Hughes announced a series of planned
transactions designed to address strategic challenges and unlock stockholder
value in the three Hughes business segments. See the Hughes Transactions section
on pages II-58 and II-59 for additional information regarding the planned
transactions.
 
                                      II-55
<PAGE>   70
 
     To facilitate analysis, the following sections present financial statements
for the Corporation's manufacturing, wholesale marketing, defense and
electronics operations with the financing and insurance operations (primarily
GMAC) reflected on an equity basis. This is the same basis and format used in
years prior to the Corporation's adoption of SFAS No. 94, Consolidation of All
Majority-Owned Subsidiaries.
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME WITH FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS ON AN
EQUITY BASIS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ------------------------------
                                                                1996       1995       1994
                                                                ----       ----       ----
                                                                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>        <C>        <C>
Net sales and revenues(1)...................................  $145,427   $143,754   $134,888
                                                              --------   --------   --------
Costs and expenses
  Cost of sales and other operating charges, exclusive of
     items listed below.....................................   123,966    121,312    113,655
  Selling, general, and administrative expenses.............    11,827     10,195      9,385
  Depreciation and amortization expenses....................     7,145      6,787      6,343
  Plant closings reserve adjustments........................      (727)        --         --
                                                              --------   --------   --------
       Total costs and expenses.............................   142,211    138,294    129,383
                                                              --------   --------   --------
Operating income............................................     3,216      5,460      5,505
Other income less income deductions.........................     2,112      1,168      1,213
Interest expense............................................       859        344      1,265
                                                              --------   --------   --------
Income from continuing operations before income taxes.......     4,469      6,284      5,453
Income taxes................................................       885      1,563      1,719
                                                              --------   --------   --------
Income from continuing operations before earnings of
  nonconsolidated affiliates and cumulative effect of
  accounting changes........................................     3,584      4,721      3,734
Earnings of nonconsolidated affiliates......................     1,369      1,312      1,125
                                                              --------   --------   --------
Income from continuing operations before cumulative
  effective of accounting changes...........................     4,953      6,033      4,859
Income from discontinued operations.........................        10        900        793
Cumulative effect of accounting changes(2)..................        --        (52)      (751)
                                                              --------   --------   --------
       Net income...........................................  $  4,963   $  6,881   $  4,901
                                                              ========   ========   ========
       Net profit margin(3).................................       3.4%       4.2%       3.6%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Includes sales to nonconsolidated affiliates of $954 million, $855 million,
    and $856 million in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
 
(2) Effective January 1, 1995, GM adopted EITF Issue No. 95-1 and effective
    January 1, 1994, GM adopted SFAS No. 112. Not included in 1994 is the
    unfavorable cumulative effect on GMAC earnings of $7 million of adopting
    SFAS No. 112 because the cumulative effect is included in earnings of
    nonconsolidated affiliates.
 
(3) Net profit margin represents income from continuing operations before
    cumulative effect of accounting changes as a percentage of net sales and
    revenues.
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS WITH FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS ON AN EQUITY BASIS
 
     In 1996, GM's income from continuing operations before cumulative effect of
accounting changes totaled $5 billion or $6.07 per share of $1 2/3 par value
common stock, compared with $6 billion or $7.14 per share of $1 2/3 par value
common stock and $4.9 billion or $5.74 per share of $1 2/3 par value common
stock in 1995 and 1994, respectively. GM's 1996 income from continuing
operations before cumulative effect of accounting changes included certain
special items that had a net unfavorable impact of approximately $900 million
after-tax (See GM-NAO/Delphi Financial Review).
 
     GM completed the split-off of Electronic Data Systems Corporation (EDS) on
June 7, 1996, and accordingly, the financial results related to EDS through the
split-off date have been reported as discontinued
 
                                      II-56
<PAGE>   71
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS WITH FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS ON AN EQUITY BASIS
(CONTINUED)

operations. GM's 1996 net income, including the income from discontinued
operations through the June 7, 1996 split-off, totaled $5 billion or $6.06 per
share of $1 2/3 par value common stock, compared with $6.9 billion or $7.21 per
share of $1 2/3 par value common stock and $4.9 billion or $5.15 per share of
$1 2/3 par value common stock for 1995 and 1994, respectively.
 
     Highlights of financial performance by GM's major business sectors were as
follows (in millions):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               1996     1995     1994
                                                               ----     ----     ----
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>      <C>
GM-NAO/Delphi...............................................  $1,246   $2,396   $  677
GMIO........................................................   1,532    1,644    1,575
GMAC........................................................   1,240    1,031      920
Hughes......................................................   1,151    1,108    1,049
Other.......................................................    (216)    (198)    (113)
                                                              ------   ------   ------
     Income from continuing operations......................  $4,953   $5,981   $4,108
Discontinued operations (EDS)                                     10      900      793
                                                              ------   ------   ------
     Net income.............................................  $4,963   $6,881   $4,901
                                                              ======   ======   ======
</TABLE>
 
     Reference should be made to the GM-NAO/Delphi, GMIO, GMAC, and Hughes
Financial Reviews that are presented on pages II-48 through II-55 and
incorporated by reference to supplement the information presented herein.
 
     In 1996, net sales and revenues increased $1.6 billion to $145.4 billion,
compared with $143.8 billion and $134.9 billion in 1995 and 1994, respectively.
The 1996 increase resulted from increased net sales for GMIO and Hughes,
partially offset by lower wholesale sales in North America. The increase in 1995
compared with 1994 was primarily due to increased wholesale vehicle sales, lower
sales incentives and an improved mix of retail and fleet sales in North America,
increased wholesale vehicle sales outside of North America, and the continued
expansion of Hughes.
 
     The gross margin was 14.8% for 1996, compared with 15.6% and 15.7% in 1995
and 1994, respectively. The 1996 decrease in the gross margin primarily resulted
from lower wholesale sales, increased safety and emissions costs, and spending
for new product launches and new product development. The slight decrease in the
1995 gross margin primarily resulted from labor cost pressures in Latin America;
foreign exchange rate movements in Europe, Brazil, and Venezuela; vehicle launch
costs in Europe; and increased corporate-wide engineering expenses to support
new product development. The higher costs in 1996 and 1995 were partially offset
by savings for GM-NAO, Delphi, and GMIO in connection with GM's strategy of
utilizing common parts and processes, while implementing lean operations.
 
     Selling, general, and administrative expenses increased in both 1996 and
1995 primarily due to efforts to grow the business in all of the GM business
sectors, which included increased advertising and other consumer influence
spending in connection with new vehicle launch support and marketing programs in
North America in 1996.
 
     Depreciation and amortization expenses increased in both 1996 and 1995 in
connection with expenditures for production and quality improvements worldwide.
Favorable pre-tax plant closings reserve adjustments of $727 million were
recorded in 1996. Additional information regarding the plant closings reserve
adjustments is contained in Note 17 to the GM consolidated financial statements.
 
     Other income less income deductions was $2.1 billion in 1996, compared with
$1.2 billion in both 1995 and 1994. The amount reported for 1996 included a $120
million pre-tax gain associated with the sale of a 2.5% equity interest in
DIRECTV and a $105 million pre-tax gain on the sale of GM's preferred stock
interest in Avis, Inc., while the 1995 amount included a $148 million pre-tax
loss associated with the sale of the net assets of National Car Rental System
(NCRS).
 
     Interest expense totaled $859 million in 1996, compared with $344 million
and $1.3 billion in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The lower 1995 interest expense
resulted from the reversal of interest related to income tax issues resolved in
1995, the reevaluation of the remaining reserve, and lower 1995 accrued interest
on outstanding tax issues.
 
                                      II-57
<PAGE>   72
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS WITH FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS ON AN EQUITY BASIS
(CONCLUDED)

     In 1996, the effective income tax rate was 19.8%, compared with 24.9% and
31.5% in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The lower 1996 tax rate resulted from the
favorable resolution of items related to GM's 1995 tax return, overall foreign
tax rates that were lower than the U.S. statutory rate, and research and
experimentation credits. The 1995 effective income tax rate resulted from the
resolution of numerous prior year tax issues worldwide, efficient utilization of
a net operating loss carryback, tax benefits associated with the mix of foreign
earnings and foreign income taxes, and tax benefits relating to the sale of the
net assets of NCRS.
 
EDS SPLIT-OFF
 
     On June 7, 1996, GM split-off EDS to GM Class E stockholders on a tax-free
basis for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Under the terms of the split-off,
each share of GM's former Class E common stock was exchanged for one share of
EDS common stock. In addition, GM and EDS entered into a new 10-year agreement,
under which EDS will continue to be GM's principal provider of information
technology services, and EDS made a special inter-company payment of $500
million to GM.
 
     GM's Board of Directors determined that the ownership of EDS was not
necessary for GM to execute its information technology strategy or to ensure the
security of its computer data and other information. Furthermore, GM's Board of
Directors determined that there were certain actual and potential conflicts
between the business of EDS and the other businesses of GM. The split-off was
completed to address such conflicts in a manner that was beneficial from the
standpoint of all stockholders of GM and to allow the boards and managements of
GM and EDS to increase their focus on their respective business operations. A
majority of the holders of all three classes of GM common stock approved the
split-off.
 
     Additional information regarding the split-off of EDS is contained in Note
2 to the GM consolidated financial statements.
 
HUGHES TRANSACTIONS
 
     On January 16, 1997, GM and Hughes announced a series of planned
transactions designed to address strategic challenges and unlock stockholder
value in the three Hughes business segments. The transactions would include the
tax-free spin-off of the Hughes defense business to holders of GM's $1 2/3 par
value and Class H common stocks, followed immediately by the tax-free merger of
that business with Raytheon Company (Raytheon). The spin-off is not being
proposed in a manner that would result in the recapitalization of Class H common
stock into $1 2/3 par value common stock at a 120% exchange ratio, as currently
provided for under certain circumstances in the General Motors Restated
Certificate of Incorporation, as amended. At the same time, Delco Electronics,
the automotive electronics subsidiary of Hughes, would be transferred from
Hughes to GM's Delphi Automotive Systems unit. Finally, GM's Class H common
stock would be recapitalized into a tracking stock linked solely to the
telecommunications and space business of Hughes. After the spin-off and tax-free
merger of the Hughes defense business with Raytheon, there would be outstanding
two classes of Raytheon/Hughes defense common stock: Class A common stock,
approximately 103 million shares of which would have been distributed to GM's
$1 2/3 and Class H stockholders in the spin-off, and Class B common stock which
would be exchanged for Raytheon common stock on a one-for-one share basis in the
merger. The common stock of the Hughes defense business that would be
distributed to GM common stockholders would represent approximately 30% of the
stock of the combined company. The distribution of stock in the Hughes defense
business to holders of GM Class H and $1 2/3 par value common stock would be in
a ratio that would be determined by GM's Board of Directors to be fair to both
classes of stockholders and would reflect: (1) a pro rata spin-off of the Hughes
defense business to holders of GM Class H and $1 2/3 par value common stock; (2)
a partial reallocation of the Hughes defense business from holders of GM $1 2/3
par value common stock to holders of Class H common stock in exchange for the
derivative interest in the earnings of Delco currently held by the Class H
stockholders; and (3) other effects of and factors relating to the planned
transactions. Such a distribution ratio will be set by GM's Board of Directors
at a time closer to GM's distribution of the solicitation statement/prospectus
pursuant to which GM stockholders will be asked to approve the transactions.
 
     The spin-off of the Hughes defense business and merger with Raytheon would
have an indicated total value of $9.5 billion to GM and its common stockholders
based on stock prices as of the announcement date. That value would consist of a
combination of approximately $4.7 billion of total debt obligations of the
Hughes
 
                                      II-58
<PAGE>   73
 
HUGHES TRANSACTIONS (CONCLUDED)

defense business at the time of the merger, and $4.8 billion of indicated value
of Hughes defense stock to be distributed to common stockholders (after giving
affect to the merger based on the market price of Raytheon common stock as of
the announcement date of $47.00). The merger terms provide that the total debt
of the Hughes defense business will be adjusted to reflect variations in the
average market price of Raytheon stock, subject to specified limits, so that the
two components of value will total $9.5 billion so long as such market price is
in a range of between $44.42 and $54.29 per share. Substantially all of such
debt would be incurred immediately prior to the spin-off, with the proceeds used
principally to fund the telecommunications and space business of Hughes.
 
     The integration of Delco with certain parts of Delphi into a distinct
business unit will give GM the flexibility to consider some form of future
partial public ownership of the resulting entity. GM is evaluating its strategic
alternatives in this regard.
 
     GM is evaluating the accounting for these transactions and whether the pro
rata distribution of the Hughes defense business would be recorded at historical
cost, with no gain recognized, or at fair value, with a related gain. Regardless
of whether the planned transactions are recorded at historical cost or fair
value, it is anticipated that there would be a reduction to GM's stockholders'
equity of between $0.6 billion to $1.6 billion, depending on several variables
the largest of which is the level of debt incurred by the Hughes defense
business prior to the spin-off.
 
     Consummation of the transactions described previously is subject to various
contingencies, including regulatory clearances and approval by GM common
stockholders. Additional information regarding these planned transactions is
included in Note 23 to the GM consolidated financial statements. These planned
transactions had no impact on GM's 1996 financial results.
 
     The planned transactions described previously are intended to result in the
achievement of several strategic objectives. The merger of the Hughes defense
business with Raytheon would create a stronger defense electronics company which
would be able to more effectively compete for new business in an industry where
significant consolidation is occurring. At the same time, the integration of
Delco Electronics and Delphi Automotive Systems would combine advanced
electronics capability with components and systems expertise, and would be
expected to result in reduced costs. Hughes Electronics would continue to hold
and operate the telecommunications and space business. This would allow Hughes
management to focus on this business segment and the capital infusion would
allow it to take advantage of growth opportunities in this very competitive
industry. The strategy of this business is to continue to expand its offerings
from being primarily a supplier of hardware to becoming a provider of hardware
and video, voice, and data services worldwide. This strategy requires
significant current and future investment in order to maintain and enhance the
segment's competitive position with respect to existing products and to take
advantage of the growth opportunities presented, as well as the formation of
strategic alliances to compete in the very competitive global marketplace.
 
     Separately, in September 1996, Hughes and PanAmSat Corporation entered into
an agreement to merge their respective satellite services operations into a new
publicly-held company. Hughes would contribute its Galaxy satellite services
business in exchange for a 71.5% interest in the new company. Current PanAmSat
stockholders would receive a 28.5% interest in the new company and $1.5 billion
in cash. For accounting purposes, this transaction would be treated as a partial
sale of the Galaxy business by Hughes and would result in a one-time,
nonrecurring gain. The amount of this gain depends on several variables, but is
expected to be between $400 and $600 million before tax. The transaction, which
is contingent upon receiving certain regulatory approvals, is expected to close
during the second quarter of 1997.
 
     Statements made herein concerning the transactions planned by Hughes and
General Motors, and strategic alternatives and the possibility of future action
in relation thereto constitute forward-looking information. Each of the
transactions described in such statements is subject to numerous conditions and
uncertainties. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that any such transactions
will be consummated, or if consummated, accomplish the strategic objectives of
Hughes or General Motors.
 
                                      II-59
<PAGE>   74
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS WITH FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS ON AN EQUITY
BASIS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ----------------------
                                                                  1996         1995
                                                                  ----         ----
                                                                (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>          <C>
                           ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents...................................     $ 13,320     $  9,047
Other marketable securities.................................        3,642        1,194
                                                                 --------     --------
  Total cash and marketable securities......................       16,962       10,241
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances)
  Trade.....................................................        4,909        5,595
  Nonconsolidated affiliates................................          927        2,103
Inventories (less allowances)...............................       11,898       11,348
Net assets of discontinued operations.......................           --        5,055
Contracts in process -- net.................................        2,507        2,469
Net equipment on operating leases...........................        3,918        4,393
Deferred income taxes and other.............................        3,141        5,527
                                                                 --------     --------
     Total current assets...................................       44,262       46,731
Equity in net assets of nonconsolidated affiliates..........        9,855        9,983
Deferred income taxes.......................................       20,075       17,375
Other investments and miscellaneous assets..................       11,391       12,011
Property -- net.............................................       37,156       34,438
Intangible assets -- net....................................       12,523       10,106
                                                                 --------     --------
     Total assets...........................................     $135,262     $130,644
                                                                 ========     ========
            LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable............................................     $ 11,527     $ 10,624
Loans payable...............................................        1,214        2,187
Income taxes payable........................................           --          101
Accrued liabilities and customer deposits...................       29,822       28,093
                                                                 --------     --------
     Total current liabilities..............................       42,563       41,005
Long-term debt..............................................        5,192        4,114
Capitalized leases..........................................          198          166
Postretirement benefits other than pensions.................       40,578       39,001
Pensions....................................................        5,966        5,594
Other liabilities and deferred income taxes.................       15,742       15,908
Deferred credits............................................        1,605        1,510
Stockholders' equity........................................       23,418       23,346
                                                                 --------     --------
     Total liabilities and stockholders' equity.............     $135,262     $130,644
                                                                 ========     ========
</TABLE>
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES WITH FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS ON AN
EQUITY BASIS
 
     Total cash and marketable securities at December 31, 1996 were $17 billion,
up from $10.2 billion at December 31, 1995. GM has surpassed its goal to
accumulate $13 billion of cash and marketable securities in order to continue to
fund product development programs throughout the next downturn in the business
cycle.
 
     GM believes it has sufficient resources to meet anticipated future cash
flow requirements. In addition to cash flows from operations, GM and its
subsidiaries maintain substantial bank lines of credit with various banks that
totaled $53.7 billion at December 31, 1996, of which $32.4 billion represented
short-term credit facilities and $21.3 billion represented long-term credit
facilities. At December 31, 1995, bank lines of credit totaled $50.9 billion, of
which $30.1 billion represented short-term credit facilities and $20.8 billion
represented long-term credit facilities. The unused short-term and long-term
portions of the credit lines
 
                                      II-60
<PAGE>   75
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES WITH FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS ON AN
EQUITY BASIS (CONCLUDED)

totaled $21.9 billion and $19.2 billion at December 31, 1996, compared with
$20.6 billion and $18.8 billion at December 31, 1995.
 
     Long-term debt was $5.2 billion at December 31, 1996, an increase of $1.1
billion from the prior year. The ratio of long-term debt to the total of
long-term debt and stockholders' equity was 18.1% and 15% at December 31, 1996
and 1995, respectively. The ratio of long-term debt and short-term loans payable
to the total of this debt and stockholders' equity was 21.5% and 21.3% at
December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
     Net liquidity, calculated as cash and marketable securities less the total
of loans payable, long-term debt, and capitalized leases, was a record $10.4
billion at December 31, 1996, an increase of $6.6 billion from the prior year.
Book value per share of $1 2/3 par value common stock increased to $27.95 from
$24.37 at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Book value per share of
Class H common stock increased to $13.97 from $12.20 at December 31, 1996 and
1995, respectively. Book value per share was determined based on the liquidation
rights of the various classes of common stock.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES FOR GMAC
 
     At December 31, 1996, GMAC owned assets and serviced automotive receivables
for others totaling $108 billion compared with $106.6 billion at year end 1995.
Earning assets totaled $95.3 billion and $92 billion at December 31, 1996 and
1995, respectively. The increase in earning assets was primarily attributable to
continued growth of the operating lease portfolio as well as higher outstanding
balances for real estate mortgages.
 
     Cash and cash equivalents totaled $742 million and $1.4 billion at December
31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The lower holdings reflect a reduced need to
accumulate cash as GMAC's access to the capital markets has continued to
improve.
 
     Consolidated finance receivables, net of unearned income, totaled $59.3
billion at December 31, 1996, a decrease of $1.9 billion from December 31, 1995
that primarily resulted from lower wholesale receivables outstanding.
 
     GMAC's liquidity, as well as its ability to profit from ongoing acquisition
activity, is in large part dependent on its access to capital and the costs
associated with raising funds in different segments of the capital markets. In
this regard, GMAC regularly accesses the short-, medium-, and long-term debt
markets, principally through commercial paper, medium-term notes, and
underwritten issuances. GMAC's borrowings outstanding at December 31, 1996
totaled $78.7 billion compared with $74.9 billion at December 31, 1995. GMAC's
ratio of debt to total stockholder's equity at December 31, 1996 was 9.5:1, up
from 9.1:1 at December 31, 1995. The higher year-to-year debt levels were
principally used to fund increased asset levels and reduce accounts payable.
GMAC has continued to use an asset securitization program as an alternative
funding source and has sold finance receivables that it continues to service for
a fee. The servicing portfolio of sold finance receivables totaled $9.7 billion
and $11.3 billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
 
     GMAC and its subsidiaries maintain substantial bank lines of credit, which
totaled $40.7 billion and $40 billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively. The unused portion of these credit lines totaled $30.6 billion at
December 31, 1996, which was $200 million higher than at December 31, 1995.
 
                                      II-61
<PAGE>   76
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS WITH FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS ON
AN EQUITY BASIS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ------------------------------
                                                                1996       1995       1994
                                                                ----       ----       ----
                                                                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>         <C>        <C>
Cash flows from operating activities
  Income from continuing operations before cumulative effect
     of accounting changes..................................  $  4,953    $ 6,033    $ 4,859
  Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations
     before cumulative effect of accounting changes to net
     cash provided by operating activities
     Depreciation and amortization expenses.................     7,145      6,787      6,343
     Provision for ongoing postretirement benefits other
       than pensions, net of cash payments..................     1,549      1,659      2,205
     Pension expense, net of cash contributions.............       801     (2,932)    (5,018)
     Plant closings reserve adjustments.....................      (727)        --         --
     Pre-tax loss (gain) on sale of business units..........       253        116        (18)
     Change in other operating assets and liabilities
       Accounts receivable..................................     1,196       (137)      (838)
       Inventories..........................................      (757)    (1,214)    (1,656)
       Accounts payable.....................................       898       (288)     1,267
       Deferred taxes and income taxes payable..............      (303)     1,077        406
       Other liabilities....................................       460        576      1,662
     Other..................................................     1,447       (575)    (1,555)
                                                              --------    -------    -------
Net cash provided by operating activities...................    16,915     11,102      7,657
                                                              --------    -------    -------
Cash flows from investing activities
  Expenditures for property.................................    (9,606)    (8,653)    (5,890)
  Special inter-company payment from EDS....................       500         --         --
  Investments in other marketable securities -
     acquisitions...........................................   (14,340)    (5,581)    (2,511)
  Investments in other marketable securities -
     liquidations...........................................    11,891      5,496      1,914
  Operating leases - acquisitions...........................    (4,090)    (1,090)    (1,851)
  Operating leases - liquidations...........................     3,819        506      1,128
  Other.....................................................       334        (71)       737
                                                              --------    -------    -------
Net cash used in investing activities.......................   (11,492)    (9,393)    (6,473)
                                                              --------    -------    -------
Cash flows from financing activities
  Net (decrease) increase in loans payable..................      (971)     1,072       (528)
  Increase in long-term debt................................     1,937        646        152
  Decrease in long-term debt................................      (871)    (1,597)      (786)
  Proceeds from sale of minority interest in DIRECTV........       138         --         --
  Net increase (decrease) in payable to GMAC................        --        311       (143)
  Repurchases of common and preference stocks...............      (251)    (1,681)        --
  Proceeds from issuing common stocks.......................       480        453      1,017
  Cash dividends paid to stockholders.......................    (1,530)    (1,328)    (1,112)
                                                              --------    -------    -------
Net cash used in financing activities.......................    (1,068)    (2,124)    (1,400)
                                                              --------    -------    -------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash
  equivalents...............................................      (185)       146        (16)
                                                              --------    -------    -------
Net cash provided by (used in) continuing operations........     4,170       (269)      (232)
Net cash provided by (used in) discontinued operations......       103        193        (24)
                                                              --------    -------    -------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents........     4,273        (76)      (256)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year..........     9,047      9,123      9,379
                                                              --------    -------    -------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year................  $ 13,320    $ 9,047    $ 9,123
                                                              ========    =======    =======
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-62
<PAGE>   77
 
CASH FLOWS WITH FINANCING AND INSURANCE OPERATIONS ON AN EQUITY BASIS
 
     Net cash provided by operating activities was $16.9 billion, $11.1 billion,
and $7.7 billion in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. The increase in net cash
provided by operating activities in 1996 resulted from a decrease in accounts
receivable and cash contributions to the worldwide pension funds, higher
depreciation and amortization expenses, and a $1 billion income tax refund
related to the carryback of a 1995 net operating loss, partially offset by an
increase in deferred tax assets. The increase in 1995 was primarily attributable
to higher net income and depreciation and amortization expenses, the sale of
$600 million of accounts receivable, and a decrease in cash contributions to the
worldwide pension funds. Depreciation and amortization expenses increased as a
result of higher property expenditures in each of the last three years. Cash
pension contributions for 1996 and 1995 decreased due to the improved funding of
GM's U.S. hourly pension plan and included the effects of the 1995 non-cash
contribution of GM's former Class E common stock (now EDS common stock), valued
for book purposes at approximately $6.3 billion.
 
     GM has made substantial progress toward realigning plant capacity in North
America, and the improved operating cash flows reflect these actions. Total
future discounted cash expenditures for plant closings is estimated to be $1,279
million. Additional information on the plant closings reserve (excluding
environmental) is summarized in Note 17 to the GM consolidated financial
statements.
 
     Net cash used in investing activities increased to $11.5 billion in 1996,
compared with $9.4 billion and $6.5 billion in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The
increase in 1996 was primarily due to a $2.4 billion net change in investments
in other marketable securities combined with a $953 million increase in property
expenditures, partially offset by a $500 million special inter-company payment
from EDS. The $2.9 billion increase in 1995 over 1994 resulted primarily from
increased property expenditures. Worldwide property expenditures in 1996, of
which 60% were in the U.S. (65% in 1995 and 66% in 1994), 10% in Canada and
Mexico (8% in 1995 and 10% in 1994) and 30% overseas (27% in 1995 and 24% in
1994), have been devoted primarily to improve efficiency and quality, to
increase truck assembly capacity, and to increase GM's global presence. Capital
expenditures for 1997 are estimated to be approximately $9.9 billion with
outstanding commitments of $7 billion at December 31, 1996.
 
     In 1996, net cash used in financing activities decreased to $1.1 billion,
compared with $2.1 billion and $1.4 billion in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The
higher level of cash used in financing activities in 1995 was due to a $1.3
billion repurchase of preference stocks. The increase in net cash used in
financing in 1995 compared with 1994 resulted from the repurchase of preference
stocks, as well as a reduction of $564 million in proceeds from issuing common
stocks and a $1.1 billion increase in total loans payable.
 
     Cash dividends paid to stockholders increased in 1996 and 1995 as GM's
Board of Directors approved dividend increases in the first quarter of each
year. GM's policy is to distribute dividends on its $1 2/3 par value common
stock based on the outlook and indicated capital needs of the business. In
January 1997, GM's Board of Directors increased the quarterly dividend on $1 2/3
par value common stock by $0.10 per share to $0.50 per share, a level that GM
believes will be sustainable throughout the automotive business cycle.
 
     With respect to Class H common stock, GM's current policy is to pay
quarterly cash dividends approximately equal to 35% of the available separate
consolidated net income of Hughes, for the prior year. In January 1997, GM's
Board of Directors increased the quarterly dividend on Class H common stock to
$0.25 per share from $0.24 per share. It is anticipated that if the previously
described Hughes transactions are consummated, the General Motors Board of
Directors will adopt a dividend policy relating to the new Class H common stock
which the Board deems to be appropriate in light of the capital needs and growth
opportunities of the Hughes telecommunications and space business and generally
commensurate with that of other companies in the telecommunications and space
business having similar capital needs and growth opportunities.
 
     Also in January 1997, GM's Board of Directors approved a $2.5 billion
repurchase program for $1 2/3 par value common stock, which was expected to be
completed principally through open-market purchases within 12 months of the
announcement date. This would represent a repurchase of slightly more than 5% of
the shares of $1 2/3 par value common stock outstanding on the date of the
announcement based on the New York Stock Exchange's closing price on the last
business day prior to the announcement.
 
                                      II-63
<PAGE>   78
 
CASH FLOWS FOR GMAC
 
     In 1996, cash provided by operating and financing activities totaled $4.2
billion and $2.6 billion, respectively. Cash used in investing activities,
primarily for expanding the operating lease portfolio, totaled $7.5 billion.
 
     In 1995, cash provided by operating and financing activities totaled $5.9
billion and $6.7 billion, respectively. Cash used in investing activities,
principally for expanding the finance receivables and operating lease
portfolios, totaled $12.5 billion.
 
     In 1994, cash provided by operating and financing activities totaled $4.4
billion and $2.5 billion, respectively. Cash used for investing activities,
primarily for the acquisition of operating lease assets, totaled $9.6 billion.
The 1994 decrease in cash and cash equivalents of $2.7 billion resulted from a
planned reduction in liquidity reserve requirements due to GMAC's improved
access to capital markets.
 
HEALTH CARE EXPENSE AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS
 
     As described in Note 14 to the GM consolidated financial statements, SFAS
No. 106 requires the cost of postretirement medical, dental, vision, and life
insurance to retirees and eligible dependents to be recognized in the
consolidated financial statements during the period in which employees provide
services to GM. Costs for medical, dental, vision, and life insurance claims
provided to employees during active service are expensed as incurred
(pay-as-you-go) and are not covered by SFAS No. 106. The components of the SFAS
No. 106 expense, the U.S. health care cost, and cash expenditures for GM's U.S.
operations are set forth below (excluding cash expenditures for Hughes'
non-automotive employees, but including GMAC).
 
     SFAS No. 106 has no effect on cash flow since GM continues its practice of
paying postretirement benefits (other than pensions) when incurred. Nonetheless,
GM is committed to reducing the burden of continuing health care cost increases.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
                                                         ------------------------------------------
                                                         SFAS NO. 106     HEALTH      PAY-AS-YOU-GO
                                                           EXPENSE       CARE COST        COST*
                                                         ------------    ---------    -------------
                                                                   (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                      <C>            <C>           <C>
GM U.S. operations health care
  SFAS No. 106 expense.................................     $2,999        $2,999         $   --
  Retired employees pay-as-you-go......................         --            --          1,730
  Active employees pay-as-you-go.......................         --         1,764          1,764
                                                            ------        ------         ------
     Total health care.................................      2,999        $4,763         $3,494
                                                            ------        ======         ======
SFAS No. 106 expense
  Life insurance.......................................        404
  Other subsidiaries - health care and life
     insurance.........................................        169
                                                            ------
     Total SFAS No. 106................................     $3,572
                                                            ======
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
* Pay-as-you-go amounts for 1995 were $1.7 billion for retirees, $1.9 billion
  for active employees, and $3.6 billion in total.
 
     GM has disclosed in its consolidated financial statements certain amounts
associated with estimated future postretirement benefits other than pensions and
classified such amounts as "accumulated postretirement benefit obligations",
"liabilities", or "obligations." Notwithstanding the recording of such amounts
and the use of these terms, GM does not admit or otherwise acknowledge that such
amounts or existing postretirement benefit plans of GM (other than pensions)
represent legally enforceable liabilities of GM.
 
                                      II-64
<PAGE>   79
 
GM CARD
 
     GM sponsors a credit card program, entitled the GM Card program, which was
introduced in the U.S. in September 1992 and subsequently in Canada, Australia,
Brazil, and the United Kingdom. A cardholder's use of the card generates
entitlements to rebates that can be used solely in connection with the
cardholder's purchase or lease of a new GM vehicle.
 
     As the sponsor of the GM Card program, GM does not provide consumer credit.
The program is used as a marketing tool to increase product sales. Independent
banks issue the GM Card and are responsible for evaluating, extending, and
funding credit to the cardholders, and are fully responsible for any credit card
losses with no recourse against GM.
 
     In the U.S., GM Card rebates accumulate at a rate equal to 5% of all
spending for goods or services charged on the GM Card up to a maximum rebate
amount of $500 per year. Beginning with their annual fee date in 1997, the
maximum rebate for Gold Card members will be $500 per year. Additional rebates
may be earned when the GM Card is used to make purchases from non-bank marketing
partners. The rebates, which expire in 7 years, may be applied over and above
all sales allowances in the market at the time of vehicle purchase or lease. GM
is solely responsible to cardholders for rebates. Provisions for GM Card rebates
are recorded as reductions in revenue at the time of vehicle sale. GM has the
right to prospectively modify the plan.
 
     Rebates redeemed worldwide during 1996, 1995, and 1994 were $443 million,
$299 million, and $150 million, respectively. Cardholder rebates available
worldwide for future redemption when the cardholder purchases or leases a new GM
vehicle amounted to $3.2 billion and $2.5 billion (net of deferred program
income) at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. GM anticipates that profits
from incremental sales resulting from the GM Card program, along with deferred
program income, will more than offset future rebate costs associated with the GM
Card.
 
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
 
     GM is an international corporation with operations in over 50 countries,
which naturally exposes it to a variety of financial risks. These financial
risks are principally the effects of movements in foreign exchange rates on
transactions not denominated in U.S. dollars, and to a lesser extent, changes in
interest rates on its net cost of borrowings. In addition, GM is hedging its use
of metals in the physical and financial commodities markets. The impact of such
financial exposures on GM's annual income is relatively small compared with the
impact of changes in vehicle sales volumes and operating margins. Gains and
losses on derivatives used to hedge commodities price exposures are deferred and
recorded as a basis adjustment to the underlying inventory purchase. At the time
the inventory is sold, the gain or loss on the derivative is recognized in
income as an adjustment to cost of sales.
 
     Additional information regarding GM's accounting policies for and use of
derivative financial instruments is contained in Notes 1, 11, 12, and 13 to the
GM consolidated financial statements.
 
SECURITY RATINGS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 CURRENT SECURITY RATINGS
                                               -----------------------------
                                               MOODY'S   S&P    D&P    FITCH
                                               -------   ---    ---    -----
<S>                                            <C>       <C>    <C>    <C>
GM/GMAC long-term debt.......................    A.3       A-     A-     A-
GM preference stocks.........................   Baa1     BBB+   BBB+   BBB+
GMAC commercial paper........................    P-1      A.2    D-1    F-1
Hughes long-term debt........................    A.3       A-     --     --
Hughes commercial paper......................    P-2      A.2     --     --
</TABLE>
 
     Debt ratings by the various rating agencies reflect each agency's opinion
of the ability of issuers to repay debt obligations punctually. Lower ratings
generally result in higher borrowing costs. A security rating is not a
 
                                      II-65
<PAGE>   80
 
SECURITY RATINGS (CONCLUDED)
recommendation to buy, sell, or hold securities and may be subject to revision
or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization. Each rating
should be evaluated independently of any other rating.
 
     GM's 1996 credit ratings remained unchanged from 1995 by its U.S. rating
agencies. Following GM's January 1997 announcement with respect to the Hughes
business segments (see Note 23 to the GM consolidated financial statements),
each of the rating agencies reaffirmed its current rating and outlook for GM
securities. Moody's Investors Service (Moody's), however, put Hughes' ratings on
review for possible downgrade.
 
     In September 1996, Moody's confirmed the long-term credit ratings of GM,
Hughes and certain related affiliates at A.3, seventh highest within the 10
investment grade ratings available from Moody's for long-term debt. Moody's
defines A.3 bonds as having "upper-medium grade" quality. In this action, the
credit rating for the commercial paper of Hughes was confirmed at P-2. Moody's
employs its P-1 rating to indicate that an issuer's ability to repay is superior
relative to other issuers, while the P-2 rating indicates that the issuer has a
strong ability for repayment relative to other issuers. The rating for GM
preference stocks remains at Baa1, which signifies "medium-grade" quality.
 
     In October 1996, Standard and Poor's Ratings Services, a division of
McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. (S&P), revised its outlook on Hughes from stable to
developing as a result of the uncertainty with respect to GM's investment
strategy related to Hughes. S&P indicated that the developing outlook reflects
the possibility that if a significant change in the relationship between GM and
Hughes were to occur, the credit quality of Hughes could be either favorably or
adversely affected, depending upon the nature of the transaction pursued.
 
     In November 1996 and January 1997, S&P affirmed its long-term debt ratings
of GM, GMAC, and Hughes at A-. The S&P A- credit rating is the seventh highest
within the 10 investment grade ratings available from S&P for long-term debt,
based on a strong capability to pay interest and repay principal, although
somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and
economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories. Additionally, S&P
affirmed its rating on GM's preference stock at BBB+, eighth highest within the
10 S&P investment grade ratings, and affirmed its A.2 rating on GMAC's and
Hughes' commercial paper. The ratings outlook for GM and GMAC remain stable,
while the outlook for Hughes remains developing.
 
     In addition, substantially all of the short-, medium- and long-term debt
issued by GMAC and the senior debt of GM is rated by Fitch Investors Service,
Inc. (Fitch) and Duff & Phelps Credit Rating Co. (D&P). These ratings were all
reaffirmed by Fitch and D&P in September 1996 and January 1997. The senior debt
of GM and GMAC remains rated A- by both agencies, seventh highest within the 10
investment grade ratings available. Fitch's A- rating is assigned to bonds
considered to be of high credit quality, with the obligor's ability to pay
interest and repay principal considered to be strong. D&P's A- rating indicates
adequate likelihood of timely payment of principal and interest.
 
     GMAC's commercial paper remains rated F-1 by Fitch, the second highest of
four investment grade ratings available, which is assigned to short-term issues
that possess a very strong credit quality based primarily on the existence of
liquidity necessary to meet the obligation in a timely manner. GMAC's commercial
paper remains rated D-1 by D&P, the second highest of five investment grade
ratings available, which signifies a very high certainty of timely payment based
on excellent liquidity factors and good fundamental protection factors.
 
     GM's preference stocks remain rated BBB+ by Fitch and D&P, the eighth
highest of 10 investment grade ratings available. Preference issues assigned
this rating by Fitch are considered reasonably safe but lack the protection of
the "A" to "AAA" categories. This rating signifies that current results should
be watched for possible signs of deterioration. Preference stocks assigned this
rating by D&P have below average protection factors but are still considered
sufficient for prudent investment.
 
                                      II-66
<PAGE>   81
 
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES
 
     At December 31, 1996, GM's consolidated balance sheet included a net
deferred tax asset of approximately $17.5 billion related to net future
deductible temporary differences (see Note 7 to the GM consolidated financial
statements) in the United States of which approximately $16.4 billion related to
the obligation for postretirement benefits other than pensions. Realization of
the net deferred tax asset is dependent upon profitable operations in the United
States and future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences. Although
realization is not assured, GM believes that it is more likely than not that
such benefits will be realized through the reduction of future taxable income.
Management has carefully considered various factors in assessing the probability
of realizing these deferred tax benefits including:
 
     - Operating results of GMAC and Hughes, which generated U.S. pre-tax income
       of approximately $3.1 billion, $2.7 billion, and $2.3 billion in 1996,
       1995, and 1994, respectively.
 
     - The operating results of GM-NAO/Delphi over the most recent three year
       period and overall financial forecasts of book and taxable income for the
       1997-2001 period. Further improvements are expected by continuing to
       balance plant capacity pursuant to the plant closing plan, reducing
       material costs through global sourcing, and increasing efficiency through
       lean manufacturing.
 
     - The ability to utilize tax planning, such as capitalization of research
       and experimentation costs for tax purposes, so that GM does not have, and
       does not expect to generate in the near future, any significant U.S.
       federal tax net operating loss carryforwards.
 
     - The extended period of time over which the tax benefits can be utilized.
       Postretirement benefits become tax deductions over periods up to 50
       years.
 
     - The fact that GM has never lost deferred federal tax benefits due to the
       expiration of a U.S. net operating loss carryforward.
 
     Dividends received from foreign operations for U.S. federal income tax
purposes totaled approximately $1.2 billion, $182 million, and $1.1 billion in
1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. In 1995, the reduced level of dividends
resulted from tax planning strategies related to the U.S. net operating loss
carryback position -- for tax purposes only.
 
PENSIONS
 
     At December 31, 1996, GM's total worldwide net unfunded pension position
decreased to $4.8 billion ($1.2 billion U.S. and $3.6 billion non-U.S.) from
$6.4 billion a year ago ($2.9 billion U.S. and $3.5 billion non-U.S.). Major
factors contributing to the improvement in the U.S. plans were the 50 basis
points increase in the discount rate used to measure the pension obligation at
the end of 1996 compared with 1995, asset returns in excess of the assumed 10%
asset earnings rate, and contributions during the year, partially offset by
benefit increases as a result of the U.S. labor negotiations.
 
     On an economic basis, GM achieved a fully-funded status for its U.S. hourly
and salaried pension plans at December 31, 1995 and continues to maintain a
fully-funded status on this basis. The economic basis of measuring the U.S.
hourly and salaried pension liability differs from the SFAS No. 87 basis
required by generally accepted accounting principles, but GM believes it to be a
better measure of GM's ongoing economic exposure for pension obligations and as
such uses this measure to determine its funding. The economic basis discounts
pension liabilities at the long-term asset earnings rate assumption (currently
10%) rather than at a year-end market rate as required by SFAS No. 87 (currently
7.5%). In periods of low interest rates, as in the current market environment,
the SFAS No. 87 liability will generally exceed the liability calculated on an
economic basis, whereas in periods of high interest rates the economic basis
liability will generally exceed the SFAS No. 87 liability.
 
     During 1996, GM contributed $800 million in cash to its U.S. hourly pension
plans. In March 1995, under terms of an agreement between GM and the Pension
Benefit Guarantee Corporation, GM contributed to the GM Hourly-Rate Employees
Pension Plan 173 million shares of Class E common stock valued at $6.3 billion
on such date. Subsequent to the split-off of EDS, the Class E common stock held
by the plan was
 
                                      II-67
<PAGE>   82
 
PENSIONS (CONCLUDED)

exchanged for EDS common stock. See Notes 2 and 16 to the GM consolidated
financial statements for additional information on the EDS split-off and
pensions.
 
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
 
     GM is subject to various laws relating to the protection of the environment
and is in various stages of investigation or remediation for sites where
contamination has been alleged.
 
     As disclosed in Note 15 to the GM consolidated financial statements, the
accrued liability for worldwide environmental cleanup was $646 million and $692
million at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. In future periods, new laws
or regulations, advances in technologies, additional information about the
ultimate remedy selected at new and existing sites, and GM's share of the cost
of such remedies could significantly change GM's estimates.
 
     Note 1 to the GM consolidated financial statements describes GM's
methodology for estimating environmental liabilities. The process of estimating
such liabilities is complex and dependent primarily on the nature and extent of
historical information and physical data relating to a contaminated site, the
complexity of the site, the uncertainty as to what remedy and technology will be
required, the outcome of discussions with regulatory agencies and other
potentially responsible parties (PRPs) at multi-party sites, and the number and
financial viability of other PRPs.
 
     In 1996, 1995, and 1994, GM expensed $94 million, $134 million, and $106
million, respectively, for environmental cleanup. In addition, worldwide capital
expenditures, as discussed previously, included $122 million, $133 million, and
$131 million in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively, for various environmental
matters.
 
EMPLOYMENT AND PAYROLLS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               1996     1995     1994
                                                               ----     ----     ----
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>      <C>
WORLDWIDE EMPLOYMENT AT DECEMBER 31, (in thousands)
  GM-NAO/Delphi.............................................     424      434      431
  GMIO......................................................     111      103      102
  GMAC......................................................      18       17       17
  Hughes....................................................      86       84       79
  Other(1)..................................................       8       11       18
                                                              ------   ------   ------
     Employees associated with continuing operations........     647      649      647
Discontinued operations (EDS)...............................      --       96       81
                                                              ------   ------   ------
     Total..................................................     647      745      728
                                                              ======   ======   ======
Worldwide payrolls -- continuing operations (in billions)...  $ 29.8   $ 29.8   $ 28.5
U.S. hourly payrolls (in billions)(2)(3)....................  $ 13.3   $ 13.7   $ 13.6
Average labor cost per active hour worked -- U.S.
  hourly(2).................................................  $44.19   $43.13   $44.23
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Includes employees of NCRS at December 31, 1994.
 
(2) Excludes EDS, Hughes' non-automotive employees, Saturn, and NCRS.
 
(3) Includes employees "at work" (excludes laid-off employees receiving
    benefits).
 
                                  * * * * * *
 
                                      II-68
<PAGE>   83
 
                                    PART III
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
ITEMS 10 THROUGH 13
 
     Certain information required by Part III (Items 10 through 13) of this
form, other than the information set forth below, has been omitted because the
Registrant intends to file a definitive proxy statement pursuant to Regulation
14A not later than 120 days after the end of its fiscal year.
 
                      EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
 
     The names and ages of all executive officers of the Registrant at February
28, 1997 and their positions and offices with the Registrant on that date are as
follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                   NAME AND (AGE)                                    POSITIONS AND OFFICES
                   --------------                                    ---------------------
<S>                                                      <C>
John F. Smith, Jr. (58)..............................    Chairman of the Board; Chief Executive
                                                         Officer; President; Member, Finance Committee
                                                         and Chairman, The President's Council
Harry J. Pearce (54).................................    Vice Chairman of the Board; Member, The
                                                         President's Council
J. Michael Losh (50).................................    Executive Vice President; Chief Financial
                                                         Officer; Member, The President's Council
G. Richard Wagoner, Jr. (44).........................    Executive Vice President; Member, The
                                                         President's Council
Louis R. Hughes (48).................................    Executive Vice President; Member, The
                                                         President's Council
</TABLE>
 
     There are no family relationships, as defined, between any of the above
executive officers, and there is no arrangement or understanding between any of
the above executive officers and any other person pursuant to which he was
selected as an officer. Each of the above executive officers was elected by the
Board of Directors to hold office until the next annual election of officers and
until his successor is elected and qualified or until his earlier resignation or
removal. The Board of Directors elects the officers in conjunction with each
annual meeting of the stockholders.
 
     Mr. John F. Smith, Jr. has been associated with General Motors since 1961.
He was elected Executive Vice President in charge of International Operations in
1988. Effective August 1990, he was elected Vice Chairman of the Board of
Directors. On April 6, 1992, Mr. Smith was elected President and Chief Operating
Officer. Effective November 1992, he was elected Chief Executive Officer and
President. On January 1, 1996, Mr. Smith became Chairman of the Board of
Directors.
 
     Mr. Pearce has been associated with General Motors since 1985. In May 1987,
he was elected Vice President and General Counsel of General Motors. Effective
November 1992, he was elected Executive Vice President of General Motors with
responsibility for the Industry-Government Relations Staff, Environmental
Activities Staff (now Environmental and Energy Staff), Worldwide Economics,
Electronic Data Systems Corporation and GM Hughes Electronics Corporation (now
Hughes Electronics Corporation). In July 1994, he assumed responsibility for
GM's Strategic Decision Center, Corporate Communications, Allison Transmission
Division, Electro-Motive Division (now GM Locomotive Group), Urban and Community
Affairs, Executive Compensation and Corporate Governance, and the Corporate
Services Staff. He remained General Counsel through August 1, 1994. Effective
January 1, 1996, Mr. Pearce was elected a director and became Vice Chairman of
the Board of Directors.
 
     Mr. Losh has been associated with General Motors since 1964. In July 1984,
he was elected Vice President of General Motors and General Manager of Pontiac
Division. He was named General Manager of Oldsmobile Division in June 1989.
Effective May 1992, he was elected Group Executive in charge of North
 
                                      III-1
<PAGE>   84
 
American Vehicle Sales, Service, and Marketing. In July 1994, he was elected
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of General Motors.
 
     Mr. Wagoner has been associated with General Motors since 1977. He was
elected Vice President in charge of finance for General Motors Europe in June
1989. In July 1991, he was elected President and Managing Director of General
Motors do Brasil. Effective November 1992, he was elected Executive Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer of General Motors. In July 1994, he was
named President of North American Operations.
 
     Mr. Hughes has been associated with General Motors since 1966. In March
1989, he was elected Chairman and Managing Director of Adam Opel AG. He was
elected President of General Motors Europe and Vice President and Group
Executive of General Motors in April 1992. Effective November 1992, he was
elected Executive Vice President, International Operations of General Motors. In
September 1994, he was named President of International Operations.
 
                                      III-2
<PAGE>   85
 
                                    PART IV
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              PAGE NO.
                                                                              --------
<S>        <C>                                                             <C>
(a)        1. All Financial Statements
                                                                             See Part II
           2. Financial Statement Schedule II-Allowances for the Years
              Ended December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994...................         IV-4
           3. Exhibits (Including Those Incorporated by Reference)
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 EXHIBIT
   NO.
 -------
<S>          <C>                                                             <C>
 (2)(a)      Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between HE Holdings,
             Inc. and Raytheon Company dated as of January 16, 1997,
             filed as Exhibit 2(a) to the Current Report on Form 8-K of
             General Motors Corporation dated January 16, 1997...........          N/A
 (2)(b)      Implementation Agreement by and between General Motors
             Corporation and Raytheon Company dated as of January 16,
             1997, filed as Exhibit 2(b) to the Current Report on Form
             8-K of General Motors Corporation dated January 16, 1997....          N/A
 (2)(c)      Form of Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between General
             Motors Corporation and               Corporation (included
             as Exhibit A to the Implementation Agreement attached as
             Exhibit 2(b) to the Current Report on Form 8-K dated January
             16, 1997), filed as Exhibit 2(c) to the Current Report on
             Form 8-K of General Motors Corporation dated January 16,
             1997........................................................          N/A
 (2)(d)*     List of Omitted Schedules and Other Attachments, filed as
             Exhibit 2(d) to the Current Report on Form 8-K of General
             Motors Corporation dated January 16, 1997...................          N/A
 (3)(a)      Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, filed as
             Exhibit 3(i) to the Current Report on Form 8-K of General
             Motors Corporation dated June 7, 1996, and Amendment to
             Article Fourth of the Certificate of Incorporation --
             Division III -- Preference Stock, by reason of the
             Certificates of Designations filed with the Secretary of
             State of the State of Delaware on September 14, 1987 and the
             Certificate of Decrease filed with the Secretary of State of
             the State of Delaware on September 29, 1987 (pertaining to
             the six series of Preference Stock contributed to the
             General Motors pension trusts), incorporated by reference to
             Exhibit 19 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of General
             Motors Corporation for the quarter ended June 30, 1990 in
             the Form SE of General Motors Corporation dated August 6,
             1990; as further amended by the Certificate of Designations
             filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware
             on June 28, 1991 (pertaining to Series A Conversion
             Preference Stock), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a)
             to Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 33-43744 in the Form
             SE of General Motors Corporation dated November 1, 1991; as
             further amended by the Certificate of Designations filed
             with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on
             December 9, 1991 (pertaining to Series B 9 1/8% Preference
             Stock), incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) to Form
             S-3 Registration Statement No. 33-45216 in the Form SE of
             General Motors Corporation dated January 27, 1992; as
             further amended by the Certificate of Designations filed
             with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on
             February 14, 1992 (pertaining to Series C Convertible
             Preference Stock), incorporated by reference to Exhibit
             (3)(a) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of General Motors
             Corporation for the year ended December 31, 1991 in the Form
             SE of General Motors Corporation dated March 20, 1992; as
             further amended by the Certificate of Designations filed
             with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on July
             15, 1992 (pertaining to Series D 7.92%
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-1
<PAGE>   86
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 EXHIBIT
   NO.                                                                          PAGE NO.
 -------                                                                        --------
<S>          <C>                                                             <C>
             Preference Stock), incorporated by reference to Exhibit
             3(a)(2) to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of General
             Motors Corporation for the quarter ended June 30, 1992 in
             the Form SE of General Motors Corporation dated August 10,
             1992; and as further amended by the Certificate of
             Designations filed with the Secretary of State of the State
             of Delaware on December 15, 1992 (pertaining to Series G
             9.12% Preference Stock), incorporated by reference to
             Exhibit 4(a) to Form S-3 Registration Statement No. 33-49309
             in the Form SE of General Motors Corporation dated January
             25, 1993....................................................          N/A
    (b)      By-Laws, as amended, filed as Exhibit 3(ii) to the Current
             Report on Form 8-K of General Motors Corporation dated
             January 27, 1997............................................          N/A
 (4)(a)      Form of Indenture relating to the $500,000,000 8 1/8%
             Debentures Due April 15, 2016 dated as of April 1, 1986
             between General Motors Corporation and Citibank, N.A.,
             Trustee, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to Amendment
             No. 1 to Form S-3 Registration Statement No. 33-4452 and
             resolutions adopted by the Special Committee on April 15,
             1986, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) to the
             Current Report on Form 8-K of General Motors Corporation
             dated April 24, 1986........................................          N/A
    (b)      Form of Indenture relating to the $700,000,000 9 5/8% Notes
             Due December 1, 2000 and the $1,400,000,000 Medium-Term Note
             Program dated as of November 15, 1990 between General Motors
             Corporation and Citibank, N.A., Trustee, incorporated by
             reference to Exhibit 4(a) to Form S-3 Registration Statement
             No. 33-37737................................................          N/A
    (c)      Form of Indenture relating to the $377,377,000 7.75%
             Debentures Due March 15, 2036 dated as of December 7, 1995
             between General Motors Corporation and Citibank, N.A.,
             Trustee, filed as Exhibit 4(a) to Amendment No. 1 to Form
             S-3 Registration Statement No. 33-64229.....................          N/A
    (d)      Instruments defining the rights of holders of nonregistered
             debt of the Registrant have been omitted from this exhibit
             index because the amount of debt authorized under any such
             instrument does not exceed 10% of the total assets of the
             Registrant and its subsidiaries. The Registrant agrees to
             furnish a copy of any such instrument to the Commission upon
             request.....................................................          N/A
(10)(a)      The General Motors Hourly-Rate Employees Pension Plan,
             filed as Exhibit (10)(a) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K
             for the year ended December 31, 1994........................          N/A
    (b)      General Motors Retirement Program for Salaried Employees,
             filed as Exhibit (10)(b) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K
             for the year ended December 31, 1994........................          N/A
    (c)**    General Motors Amended 1987 Stock Incentive Plan,
             incorporated by reference to Exhibit A to the Proxy
             Statement of General Motors Corporation dated April 13,
             1992........................................................          N/A
    (d)**    General Motors Performance Achievement Plan, incorporated by
             reference to Exhibit A to the Proxy Statement of General
             Motors Corporation dated April 16, 1982.....................          N/A
    (e)**    General Motors 1987 Performance Achievement Plan,
             incorporated by reference to Exhibit A to the Proxy
             Statement of General Motors Corporation dated April 17,
             1987........................................................          N/A
    (f)**    General Motors 1992 Performance Achievement Plan,
             incorporated by reference to Exhibit A to the Proxy
             Statement of General Motors Corporation dated April 13,
             1992........................................................          N/A
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-2
<PAGE>   87
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 EXHIBIT
   NO.                                                                          PAGE NO.
 -------                                                                        --------
<S>          <C>                                                             <C>
(11)         Computation of Earnings Per Share Attributable to Common
             Stocks for the Three Years Ended December 31, 1996..........         IV-7
(12)         Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges for the
             Three Years Ended December 31, 1996.........................         IV-10
(21)         Subsidiaries of the Registrant as of December 31, 1996......         IV-11
(23)         Consent of Independent Auditors.............................         IV-20
(99)         Hughes Electronics Corporation and Subsidiaries Consolidated
             Financial Statements and Management's Discussion and
             Analysis....................................................         IV-21
(27)         Financial Data Schedule (for SEC information only)..........          N/A
    (b)      Reports on Form 8-K
</TABLE>
 
     No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the three months ended December
31, 1996.
 
 * The registrant hereby undertakes to furnish supplementally a copy of any
   omitted schedule or other attachment to the Securities and Exchange
   Commission upon request.
 
** Required to be filed as an exhibit pursuant to Item 14(c) of Form 10-K.
 
                                      IV-3
<PAGE>   88
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                           SCHEDULE II -- ALLOWANCES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 ADDITIONS      ADDITIONS
                                                 BALANCE AT     CHARGED TO     CHARGED TO
                                                 BEGINNING       COSTS AND        OTHER                      BALANCE AT
                 DESCRIPTION                      OF YEAR        EXPENSES       ACCOUNTS      DEDUCTIONS    END OF YEAR
                 -----------                     ----------     ----------     ----------     ----------    -----------
                                                                         (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                             <C>             <C>            <C>            <C>           <C>
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
Allowances Deducted from Assets
  Finance receivables (unearned income).......     $3,922          $ --          $2,949         $3,324         $3,547
  Allowance for financing losses..............        808           669             116(a)         671(b)         922
  Accounts and notes receivable (for doubtful
    receivables)..............................        138            49              --             36            151
  Inventories (principally for obsolescence of
    service parts)............................        229            74              --             --            303
  Other investments and miscellaneous assets
    (receivables and other)...................         33             1              --             22             12
  Miscellaneous allowances (mortgage).........         59            99              31             51            138
                                                   ------          ----          ------         ------         ------
    Total Allowances Deducted from Assets.....     $5,189          $892          $3,096         $4,104         $5,073
                                                   ======          ====          ======         ======         ======
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
Allowances Deducted from Assets
  Finance receivables (unearned income).......     $3,310          $ --          $3,617         $3,005         $3,922
  Allowance for financing losses..............        693           449              88(a)         422(b)         808
  Accounts and notes receivable (for doubtful
    receivables)..............................        187            25               1             75(b)         138
  Inventories (principally for obsolescence of
    service parts)............................        178            78              --             27(c)         229
  Other investments and miscellaneous assets
    (receivables and other)...................         32            --               1             --             33
  Miscellaneous allowances (insurance and
    mortgage).................................         36            36              --             13             59
                                                   ------          ----          ------         ------         ------
    Total Allowances Deducted from Assets.....     $4,436          $588          $3,707         $3,542         $5,189
                                                   ======          ====          ======         ======         ======
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994
Allowances Deducted from Assets
  Finance receivables (unearned income).......     $3,195          $ --          $2,325         $2,210         $3,310
  Allowance for financing losses..............        748           177             129(a)         361(b)         693
  Accounts and notes receivable (for doubtful
    receivables)..............................        170            55               1             39(b)         187
  Inventories (principally for obsolescence of
    service parts)............................        149            53              --             24(c)         178
  Other investments and miscellaneous assets
    (receivables and other)...................         34            --              --              2             32
  Miscellaneous allowances (insurance and
    mortgage).................................         25            28              --             17             36
                                                   ------          ----          ------         ------         ------
    Total Allowances Deducted from Assets.....     $4,321          $313          $2,455         $2,653         $4,436
                                                   ======          ====          ======         ======         ======
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
Notes: (a) Primarily reflects the recovery of accounts previously written-off.
       (b) Accounts written off.
       (c) Obsolete parts written off, etc.
 
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      IV-4
<PAGE>   89
 
                                   SIGNATURES
 
     Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf
by the undersigned, hereunto duly authorized.
 
                                                 GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION
 
                                             -----------------------------------
                                                        (Registrant)
 
Date: March 3, 1997                       By       /s/ JOHN F. SMITH, JR.
 
                                            ------------------------------------
                                                    (John F. Smith, Jr.
                                            Chairman of the Board of Directors,
                                                Chief Executive Officer, and
                                                         President)
 
     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below on this 3rd day of March 1997 by the following
persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
             SIGNATURE                                   TITLE
             ---------                                   -----
<C>                                       <S>                                  <C>
 
      /s/ JOHN F. SMITH, JR.              Chairman of the Board of Directors,
- -----------------------------------       Chief Executive Officer, and
       (John F. Smith, Jr.)               President
 
        /s/ HARRY J. PEARCE               Vice Chairman of the Board of                            
- -----------------------------------       Directors                                                
         (Harry J. Pearce)                                                                         
        /s/ J. MICHAEL LOSH               Executive Vice President and Chief
- -----------------------------------       Financial Officer                              Principal
         (J. Michael Losh)                                                         }     Financial
         /s/ LEON J. KRAIN                Vice President and Group Executive             Officers 
- -----------------------------------
          (Leon J. Krain)
 
       /s/ JOHN D. FINNEGAN               Vice President and Treasurer
- -----------------------------------
        (John D. Finnegan)
       /s/ WALLACE W. CREEK               Comptroller                                    Principal  
- -----------------------------------                                                }     Accounting 
        (Wallace W. Creek)                                                               Officers   
        /s/ PETER R. BIBLE                Chief Accounting Officer
- -----------------------------------
         (Peter R. Bible)
</TABLE>
 
                                                                         
                                                                         
                                                                         
 
                                                                          
                                                                          
                                                                          
 
                                      IV-5
<PAGE>   90
 
                            SIGNATURES -- CONCLUDED
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
             SIGNATURE                                   TITLE
             ---------                                   -----
<C>                                       <S>                                  <C>
 
       /s/ ANNE L. ARMSTRONG                           Director
- -----------------------------------
        (Anne L. Armstrong)
 
        /s/ PERCY BARNEVIK                             Director
- -----------------------------------
         (Percy Barnevik)
 
         /s/ JOHN H. BRYAN                             Director
- -----------------------------------
          (John H. Bryan)
 
      /s/ THOMAS E. EVERHART                           Director
- -----------------------------------
       (Thomas E. Everhart)
 
    /s/ CHARLES T. FISHER, III                         Director
- -----------------------------------
     (Charles T. Fisher, III)
 
      /s/ GEORGE M. C. FISHER                          Director
- -----------------------------------
       (George M. C. Fisher)
 
   /s/ J. WILLARD MARRIOTT, JR.                        Director
- -----------------------------------
    (J. Willard Marriott, Jr.)
 
       /s/ ANN D. MCLAUGHLIN                           Director
- -----------------------------------
        (Ann D. McLaughlin)
 
       /s/ ECKHARD PFEIFFER                            Director
- -----------------------------------
        (Eckhard Pfeiffer)
 
     /s/ EDMUND T. PRATT, JR.                          Director
- -----------------------------------
      (Edmund T. Pratt, Jr.)
 
         /s/ JOHN G. SMALE                             Director
- -----------------------------------
          (John G. Smale)
 
       /s/ LOUIS W. SULLIVAN                           Director
- -----------------------------------
        (Louis W. Sullivan)
 
      /s/ DENNIS WEATHERSTONE                          Director
- -----------------------------------
       (Dennis Weatherstone)
 
        /s/ THOMAS H. WYMAN                            Director
- -----------------------------------
         (Thomas H. Wyman)
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-6
<PAGE>   91
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                          INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
 
To the Stockholder and Board of Directors of
Hughes Electronics Corporation:
 
     We have audited the Consolidated Balance Sheet of Hughes Electronics
Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 and the related
Consolidated Statement of Income and Available Separate Consolidated Net Income
and Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 1996. These financial statements are the
responsibility of Hughes Electronics Corporation's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
 
     We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
     In our opinion, such financial statements present fairly, in all material
respects, the financial position of Hughes Electronics Corporation and
subsidiaries at December 31, 1996 and 1995 and the results of their operations
and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December
31, 1996 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
 
     As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, effective
January 1, 1994 Hughes Electronics Corporation changed its method of accounting
for postemployment benefits.
 
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
- ---------------------------------------
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
 
Los Angeles, California
January 28, 1997
 
                                      IV-22
<PAGE>   92
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME AND
                   AVAILABLE SEPARATE CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ---------------------------------------
                                                                1996           1995           1994
                                                                ----           ----           ----
                                                                    (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT
                                                                        PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>            <C>
Revenues
Net sales
  Outside customers.......................................    $10,661.5      $ 9,528.8      $ 9,108.7
  General Motors and affiliates...........................      5,082.6        5,185.5        4,953.6
Other income -- net.......................................        173.8           57.5           37.1
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
  Total revenues..........................................     15,917.9       14,771.8       14,099.4
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
Costs and expenses
Cost of sales and other operating charges, exclusive of
  items listed below......................................     12,083.9       11,325.1       10,943.4
Selling, general, and administrative expenses.............      1,505.6        1,234.2        1,018.3
Depreciation and amortization.............................        560.3          487.7          470.2
Amortization of GM purchase accounting adjustments related
  to Hughes Aircraft Company..............................        122.3          123.4          123.8
Interest expense -- net...................................         11.2            7.5           15.1
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
Total costs and expenses..................................     14,283.3       13,177.9       12,570.8
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
Income before income taxes................................      1,634.6        1,593.9        1,528.6
Income taxes..............................................        605.7          645.6          572.8
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
Income before cumulative effect of accounting change......      1,028.9          948.3          955.8
Cumulative effect of accounting change....................           --             --          (30.4)
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
Net income................................................    1,028.9..          948.3          925.4
Adjustments to exclude the effect of GM purchase
  accounting adjustments related to Hughes Aircraft
  Company.................................................        122.3          159.5          123.8
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
Earnings Used for Computation of Available Separate
  Consolidated Net Income.................................    $ 1,151.2      $ 1,107.8      $ 1,049.2
                                                              =========      =========      =========
Available Separate Consolidated Net Income
     Average number of shares of General Motors Class H
       common stock outstanding (in millions)
       (numerator)........................................         98.4           95.5           92.1
     Class H dividend base (in millions) (denominator)....        399.9          399.9          399.9
     Available Separate Consolidated Net Income...........       $283.3         $264.6         $241.6
                                                              =========      =========      =========
Earnings attributable to General Motors Class H common
  stock on a per share basis
     Before cumulative effect of accounting change........        $2.88          $2.77          $2.70
     Cumulative effect of accounting change...............           --             --          (0.08)
                                                              ---------      ---------      ---------
     Net earnings attributable to General Motors Class H
       common stock.......................................        $2.88          $2.77          $2.62
                                                              =========      =========      =========
</TABLE>
 
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      IV-23
<PAGE>   93
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    DECEMBER 31,
                                                              ------------------------
                                                                1996           1995
                                                                ----           ----
                                                                (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS
                                                              EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNT)
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>
                           ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents...................................  $ 1,161.3      $ 1,139.5
Accounts and notes receivable
  Trade receivables (less allowances).......................    1,200.6        1,235.6
  General Motors and affiliates.............................      113.4          146.7
Contracts in process, less advances and progress payments of
  $1,010.4 and $1,327.2.....................................    2,507.1        2,469.2
Inventories (less allowances)...............................    1,528.5        1,225.5
Prepaid expenses, including deferred income taxes of $428.0
  and $484.4................................................      568.1          594.3
                                                              ---------      ---------
       Total current assets.................................    7,079.0        6,810.8
                                                              ---------      ---------
Property-net................................................    2,886.6        2,739.2
                                                              ---------      ---------
Telecommunications and other equipment, net of accumulated
  depreciation of $362.3 and $274.5.........................    1,133.5        1,175.1
                                                              ---------      ---------
Intangible assets, net of amortization of $1,579.1 and
  $1,415.1..................................................    3,466.0        3,573.7
                                                              ---------      ---------
Investments and other assets -- principally at cost (less
  allowances)...............................................    1,915.0        1,675.6
                                                              ---------      ---------
       Total assets.........................................  $16,480.1      $15,974.4
                                                              =========      =========
            LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable
  Outside...................................................  $   896.4      $   748.7
  General Motors and affiliates.............................       27.5           52.2
Advances on contracts.......................................      868.9          838.3
Notes and loans payable.....................................      248.1          432.5
Income taxes payable........................................      132.9          190.8
Accrued liabilities.........................................    2,025.8        2,046.3
                                                              ---------      ---------
       Total current liabilities............................    4,199.6        4,308.8
                                                              ---------      ---------
Long-term debt and capitalized leases.......................       34.5          258.8
                                                              ---------      ---------
Postretirement benefits other than pensions.................    1,658.9        1,610.6
                                                              ---------      ---------
Other liabilities and deferred credits......................    1,407.2        1,270.5
                                                              ---------      ---------
Commitments and Contingencies
Stockholder's equity
  Capital stock (outstanding, 1,000 shares, $0.10 par value)
     and additional paid-in capital.........................    6,347.2        6,338.1
  Net income retained for use in the business...............    2,968.8        2,323.9
                                                              ---------      ---------
       Subtotal.............................................    9,316.0        8,662.0
  Minimum pension liability adjustment......................     (113.5)        (108.6)
  Accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments......      (22.6)         (27.7)
                                                              ---------      ---------
       Total stockholder's equity...........................    9,179.9        8,525.7
                                                              ---------      ---------
       Total liabilities and stockholder's equity...........  $16,480.1      $15,974.4
                                                              =========      =========
</TABLE>
 
Certain amounts for 1995 have been reclassified to conform with 1996
classifications.
 
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      IV-24
<PAGE>   94
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                --------------------------------
                                                                  1996        1995        1994
                                                                  ----        ----        ----
                                                                     (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>         <C>         <C>
Cash flows from operating activities
  Income before cumulative effect of accounting change......    $1,028.9    $  948.3    $  955.8
  Adjustments to reconcile income before cumulative effect
    of accounting change to net cash provided by operating
    activities
    Depreciation and amortization...........................       560.3       487.7       470.2
    Amortization and adjustment of GM purchase accounting
     adjustments related to Hughes Aircraft Company.........       122.3       159.5       123.8
    Pension cost, net of cash contributions.................        (1.3)      (51.9)       20.3
    Provision for postretirement benefits other than
     pensions, net of cash payments.........................        40.1        43.5        78.4
    Net (gain) loss on sale of property.....................       (23.2)        6.1        14.3
    Net gain on sale of investments and businesses..........      (120.3)      (12.9)       (3.6)
    Change in deferred income taxes and other*..............       130.9      (150.1)      (60.1)
    Change in other operating assets and liabilities
      Accounts receivable...................................        86.7      (147.3)     (238.1)
      Contracts in process..................................       (34.1)     (186.2)      111.4
      Inventories...........................................      (302.8)     (160.1)      (27.5)
      Prepaid expenses......................................       (30.3)       (3.0)      (15.2)
      Accounts payable......................................       122.0       (92.0)       25.8
      Income taxes payable..................................       (57.9)      160.4       (70.7)
      Accrued and other liabilities.........................       (13.9)      257.0       (28.2)
      Other*................................................      (308.0)     (272.8)       20.2
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Net cash provided by operating activities...................     1,199.4       986.2     1,376.8
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Cash flows from investing activities
  Investment in companies, net of cash acquired.............       (28.7)     (309.5)       (7.0)
  Expenditures for property and special tools...............      (652.3)     (545.7)     (490.5)
  Increase in telecommunications and other equipment........      (191.2)     (198.9)     (351.9)
  Proceeds from sale and leaseback of satellite transponders
    with GMAC...............................................       252.0          --          --
  Proceeds from disposal of property........................        96.2        50.6        90.6
  Proceeds from sale of investments and businesses..........          --       127.2         3.6
  Decrease (increase) in notes receivable...................         1.6       (13.6)      206.9
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Net cash used in investing activities.......................      (522.4)     (889.9)     (548.3)
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Cash flows from financing activities
  Net decrease in notes and loans payable...................      (393.2)      (80.9)       (2.1)
  Increase in long-term debt................................        13.5        28.0         7.5
  Decrease in long-term debt................................       (29.0)      (37.7)      (20.8)
  Proceeds from sale of minority interest in subsidiary.....       137.5          --          --
  Cash dividends paid to General Motors.....................      (384.0)     (368.0)     (320.0)
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Net cash used in financing activities.......................      (655.2)     (458.6)     (335.4)
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents........        21.8      (362.3)      493.1
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year..........     1,139.5     1,501.8     1,008.7
                                                                --------    --------    --------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year................    $1,161.3    $1,139.5    $1,501.8
                                                                ========    ========    ========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
* 1994 amounts exclude the effect of accounting change.
 
Reference should be made to the notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      IV-25
<PAGE>   95
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
NOTE 1: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
ORGANIZATION AND CONSOLIDATION
 
     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Hughes
Electronics Corporation (Hughes) and its domestic and foreign subsidiaries that
are more than 50% owned. Investments in associated companies in which at least
20% of the voting securities is owned are accounted for under the equity method
of accounting.
 
     Effective December 31, 1985, General Motors Corporation (General Motors or
GM) acquired Hughes Aircraft Company and its subsidiaries for $2.7 billion in
cash and cash equivalents and 100 million shares of GM Class H common stock
having an estimated value of $2,561.9 million, which carried certain guarantees.
 
     On February 28, 1989, GM and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute
(Institute) reached an agreement to terminate GM's then-existing guarantee
obligations with respect to the Institute's holding of GM Class H common stock.
Under terms of the agreement as amended, the Institute received put options
exercisable under most circumstances at $30 per share on March 1, 1991, 1992,
1993, and 1995 for 20 million, 10 million, 10.5 million, and 15 million shares,
respectively. The Institute exercised these put options at $30 per share on
March 1, 1991, March 2, 1992, and March 1, 1993. On February 15, 1995, GM and
the Institute entered into an agreement under which GM assisted the Institute in
selling 15 million shares of GM Class H common stock at $38.50 per share. The
March 1, 1995 put option expired unexercised.
 
     The acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company was accounted for as a purchase.
The purchase price exceeded the net book value of Hughes Aircraft Company by
$4,244.7 million, which was assigned as follows: $500.0 million to patents and
related technology, $125.0 million to the future economic benefits to GM of the
Hughes Aircraft Company Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP), and $3,619.7 million to
other intangible assets, including goodwill. The amounts assigned to patents and
related technology are being amortized on a straight-line basis over 15 years
and other intangible assets, including goodwill, over 40 years. The amount
assigned to the future economic benefits of the LTIP was fully amortized in
1990.
 
     For the purpose of determining earnings per share and amounts available for
dividends on the common stocks of General Motors, the amortization and disposal,
if any, of these intangible assets is charged against earnings attributable to
GM $1 2/3 par value common stock and amounted to $122.3 million, $159.5 million
and $123.8 million in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. The 1995 amount
included a $36.1 million charge, included in other income, for the write-off of
such purchase accounting adjustments related to the disposition of certain
non-strategic business units.
 
     The earnings of Hughes and its subsidiaries since the acquisition of Hughes
Aircraft Company form the base from which any dividends on the GM Class H common
stock are declared. These earnings include income earned from sales to GM and
its affiliates, but exclude purchase accounting adjustments (See Notes 2 and 7).
 
     On January 16, 1997, GM and Hughes announced a series of planned
transactions designed to address strategic challenges and unlock stockholder
value in the three Hughes business segments (See Note 18).
 
USE OF ESTIMATES IN THE PREPARATION OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect amounts reported therein. Due to the inherent
uncertainty involved in making estimates, actual results reported in future
periods may be based upon amounts that differ from those estimates.
 
                                      IV-26
<PAGE>   96
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
REVENUE RECOGNITION
 
     Sales to General Motors and affiliates and to outside customers not
pursuant to long-term contracts are generally recognized as products are shipped
or services are rendered. Sales under long-term contracts are recognized
primarily using the percentage-of-completion (cost-to-cost) method of
accounting. Under this method, sales are recorded equivalent to costs incurred
plus a portion of the profit expected to be realized, determined based on the
ratio of costs incurred to estimated total costs at completion. Sales under
certain commercial long-term contracts are recognized using the
units-of-delivery method.
 
     Profits expected to be realized on long-term contracts are based on
estimates of total sales value and costs at completion. These estimates are
reviewed and revised periodically throughout the lives of the contracts, and
adjustments to profits resulting from such revisions are recorded in the
accounting period in which the revisions are made. Estimated losses on contracts
are recorded in the period in which they are identified.
 
     Certain contracts contain cost or performance incentives which provide for
increases in profits for surpassing stated objectives and decreases in profits
for failure to achieve such objectives. Amounts associated with incentives are
included in estimates of total sales values when there is sufficient information
to relate actual performance to the objectives.
 
CASH FLOWS
 
     Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments purchased with
original maturities of 90 days or less.
 
     Net cash provided by operating activities reflects cash payments for
interest and income taxes as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        1996        1995        1994
                                                        ----        ----        ----
                                                           (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                    <C>         <C>         <C>
Interest...........................................    $ 39.6      $ 37.5      $ 40.7
                                                       ------      ------      ------
Income taxes.......................................    $647.9      $634.2      $686.2
                                                       ------      ------      ------
</TABLE>
 
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND CONTRACTS IN PROCESS
 
     Trade receivables are principally related to long-term contracts and
programs. Amounts billed under retainage provisions of contracts are not
significant, and substantially all amounts are collectible within one year.
 
     Contracts in process are stated at costs incurred plus estimated profit,
less amounts billed to customers and advances and progress payments applied.
Engineering, tooling, manufacturing, and applicable overhead costs, including
administrative, research and development, and selling expenses, are charged to
costs and expenses when incurred. Contracts in process include amounts relating
to contracts with long production cycles and amounts receivable under sales-type
leases, and $546.0 million of the 1996 amount is expected to be billed after one
year. Contracts in process in 1996 also include approximately $53.8 million
relating to claims, requests for equitable adjustments, and amounts withheld
pending negotiation or settlement with customers. Under certain contracts with
the U.S. Government, progress payments are received based on costs incurred on
the respective contracts. Title to the inventories related to such contracts
(included in contracts in process) vests with the U.S. Government.
 
                                      IV-27
<PAGE>   97
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
INVENTORIES
 
     Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market principally using the
first-in, first-out (FIFO) or average cost methods.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MAJOR CLASSES OF INVENTORIES                                   1996          1995
- ----------------------------                                   ----          ----
                                                             (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                          <C>           <C>
Productive material, work in process, and supplies.......    $1,383.1      $1,060.4
Finished product.........................................       145.4         165.1
                                                             --------      --------
     Total...............................................    $1,528.5      $1,225.5
                                                             ========      ========
</TABLE>
 
PROPERTY AND DEPRECIATION
 
     Property is carried at cost. Depreciation of property is provided for based
on estimated useful lives (3 to 45 years) generally using accelerated methods.
 
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND OTHER EQUIPMENT
 
     Telecommunications and other equipment includes satellite transponders and
other equipment subject to operating leases or service agreements. Such
equipment is carried at Hughes' direct and indirect manufacturing cost and is
amortized over the estimated useful lives (7 to 23 years) using the
straight-line method. The net book value of equipment subject to operating
leases was $412.4 million and $299.8 million at December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.
 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS
 
     Intangible assets, principally the excess of cost over the fair value of
identifiable net assets of purchased businesses, are amortized using the
straight-line method over periods not exceeding 40 years. Hughes periodically
evaluates the recoverability of goodwill and other intangible assets by
assessing whether the unamortized intangible asset can be recovered over its
remaining life through undiscounted cash flows generated by underlying tangible
assets.
 
INCOME TAXES
 
     The provision for income taxes is based on reported income before income
taxes. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities reflect the impact of
temporary differences between the amounts of assets and liabilities recognized
for financial reporting purposes and such amounts recognized for tax purposes,
as measured by applying currently enacted tax laws. Provision has been made for
U.S. Federal income taxes to be paid on that portion of the undistributed
earnings of foreign subsidiaries that has not been deemed permanently
reinvested.
 
     Hughes and its domestic subsidiaries join with General Motors in filing a
consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return. The portion of the consolidated
income tax liability recorded by Hughes is generally equivalent to the liability
it would have incurred on a separate return basis.
 
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
 
     Expenditures for research and development are charged to costs and expenses
as incurred and amounted to $730.0 million in 1996, $761.7 million in 1995 and
$699.3 million in 1994.
 
                                      IV-28
<PAGE>   98
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
 
     Hughes enters into foreign exchange-forward contracts to reduce its
exposure to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Foreign exchange-forward
contracts are accounted for as hedges to the extent they are designated as, and
are effective as, hedges of firm foreign currency commitments.
 
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS
 
     Foreign currency transaction net gains (losses) included in consolidated
operating results amounted to $5.4 million in 1996, $(0.5) million in 1995, and
$(4.2) million in 1994.
 
MARKET AND CREDIT RISK CONCENTRATIONS
 
     Sales under United States Government contracts were 34.5%, 35.5%, and 37.6%
of net sales in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. Sales to General Motors and
affiliates, consisting of various automotive electronic component parts, were
32.3% of total sales in 1996, and 35.2% in 1995 and 1994.
 
     Financial instruments which potentially subject Hughes to concentrations of
credit risk consist principally of highly liquid investments purchased with
original maturities of 90 days or less. Hughes places these investments with
high-quality counterparties and, by policy, limits the amount of credit exposure
to any one counterparty.
 
ACCOUNTING CHANGES
 
     Effective January 1, 1996, Hughes adopted Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards (SFAS) No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, and as
permitted by this standard, will continue to apply the recognition and
measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25 to its
stock options. Hughes has calculated the proforma effects of applying SFAS No.
123 and determined that such effects are not significant in relation to reported
net income and earnings per share.
 
     Effective January 1, 1996, Hughes also adopted SFAS No. 121, Accounting for
the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of.
This Statement establishes accounting standards for the impairment of long-lived
assets, certain identifiable intangibles, and goodwill related to those assets
to be held and used, and for long-lived assets and certain identifiable
intangibles to be disposed of. The adoption of this new accounting standard did
not have a material effect on Hughes' consolidated operating results or
financial position.
 
     Effective January 1, 1994, Hughes adopted SFAS No. 112, Employers'
Accounting for Postemployment Benefits. The Statement requires accrual of the
costs of benefits provided to former or inactive employees after employment, but
before retirement. The unfavorable cumulative effect of adopting this Standard
was $30.4 million, net of income taxes of $19.2 million, or $0.08 per share of
GM Class H common stock. The charge primarily related to extended disability
benefits which are accrued on a service-driven basis.
 
NOTE 2: RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
SALES, PURCHASES, AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
 
     The amounts due from and to GM and affiliates result from sales of products
to and purchases of materials and services from units controlled by GM.
Purchases from GM and affiliates, including computer systems services provided
by Electronic Data Systems Corporation prior to its split-off from GM, and
common administrative expenses allocated by GM, amounted to approximately $77.9
million, $233.7 million, and $257.1 million, in 1996, 1995, and 1994,
respectively.
 
                                      IV-29
<PAGE>   99
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
INCENTIVE PLANS
 
     Certain eligible employees of Hughes participate in various incentive plans
of GM and its subsidiaries.
 
NOTE 3: INCENTIVE PLAN
 
     Under the Hughes Electronics Corporation Incentive Plan (the Plan), as
approved by the GM Board of Directors in 1987, 1992, and 1995, shares, rights,
or options to acquire up to 20 million shares of GM Class H common stock may be
granted through May 31, 1997.
 
     The GM Executive Compensation Committee may grant options and other rights
to acquire shares of GM Class H common stock under the provisions of the Plan.
The option price is equal to 100% of the fair market value of GM Class H common
stock on the date the options are granted. These nonqualified options generally
expire 10 years from the dates of grant and are subject to earlier termination
under certain conditions.
 
     Changes in the status of outstanding options were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                SHARES UNDER    WEIGHTED AVERAGE
                  GM CLASS H COMMON STOCK                          OPTION        EXERCISE PRICE
                  -----------------------                       ------------    ----------------
<S>                                                             <C>             <C>
Outstanding at January 1, 1994..............................      6,366,008          $25.19
Granted.....................................................      1,612,640           36.75
Exercised...................................................       (712,107)          24.48
Terminated..................................................       (202,220)          34.22
                                                                 ----------         -------
Outstanding at December 31, 1994............................      7,064,321           27.64
Granted.....................................................      1,537,350           39.94
Exercised...................................................     (1,929,393)          24.81
Terminated..................................................        (14,425)          34.17
                                                                 ----------         -------
Outstanding at December 31, 1995............................      6,657,853           31.29
Granted.....................................................      1,501,900           61.31
Exercised...................................................       (864,889)          28.58
Terminated..................................................       (128,075)          42.94
                                                                 ----------         -------
Outstanding at December 31, 1996............................      7,166,789          $37.70
                                                                 ==========         =======
Exercisable at December 31, 1996............................      4,965,289          $30.40
                                                                 ==========         =======
</TABLE>
 
     The following table summarizes information about the Plan stock options
outstanding at December 31, 1996:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    WEIGHTED
                                    AVERAGE        WEIGHTED                 WEIGHTED
                                   REMAINING       AVERAGE                  AVERAGE
    RANGE OF        NUMBER      CONTRACTUAL LIFE   EXERCISE     NUMBER      EXERCISE
EXERCISE PRICES   OUTSTANDING       (YEARS)         PRICE     EXERCISABLE    PRICE
- ---------------   -----------   ----------------   --------   -----------   --------
<C>               <C>           <C>                <C>        <C>           <C>
$15.00 to $24.99     829,669          4.6           $20.74       829,669     $20.74
 25.00 to  34.99   2,179,755          5.5            27.36     2,179,755      27.36
 35.00 to  44.99   2,692,090          7.9            38.45     1,955,865      37.89
 45.00 to  54.99          --           --               --            --         --
 55.00 to  65.00   1,465,275          9.3            61.31            --         --
- ----------------   ---------           --           ------     ---------     ------
$15.00 to $65.00   7,166,789          7.1           $37.70     4,965,289     $30.40
================   =========           ==           ======     =========     ======
</TABLE>
 
     At December 31, 1996, the maximum number of shares for which additional
options and other rights may be granted under the Plan was 2,314,449 shares.
 
                                      IV-30
<PAGE>   100
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 4: PENSION PROGRAMS
 
     Hughes' total pension expense amounted to $97.5 million in 1996, $39.0
million in 1995 and $54.9 million in 1994.
 
     Substantially all the employees of Delco Electronics participate in the
defined benefit pension plans of General Motors. Plans covering represented
employees generally provide benefits of negotiated stated amounts for each year
of service as well as significant supplemental benefits for employees who retire
with 30 years of service before normal retirement age. The benefits provided by
the plans covering salaried employees are generally based on years of service
and the employee's salary history. Certain nonqualified pension plans covering
executives are based on targeted wage replacement percentages and are unfunded.
The accumulated plan benefit obligation and plan net assets for the employees of
Delco Electronics are not determined separately; however, GM charged Delco
Electronics $53.1 million, $50.9 million, and $93.3 million, for benefits earned
by these employees in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
 
     Substantially all of Hughes' non-automotive employees are covered by
Hughes' bargaining and non-bargaining defined benefit retirement plans. Benefits
are based on years of service and compensation earned during a specified period
of time before retirement. Additionally, an unfunded, nonqualified pension plan
covers certain executives. The net pension expense (credit), related to these
plans covering non-automotive employees, included the components shown below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            1996         1995        1994
                                            ----         ----        ----
                                                (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                       <C>          <C>          <C>
Benefits earned during the year.........  $   161.3    $   110.5    $ 146.7
Interest accrued on benefits earned in
  prior years...........................      413.4        403.6      377.0
Actual return on assets.................   (1,253.1)    (1,198.3)    (104.7)
Net amortization and deferral...........      722.8        672.3     (457.4)
                                          ---------    ---------    -------
     Net retirement plan expense
       (credit).........................  $    44.4    $   (11.9)   $ (38.4)
                                          =========    =========    =======
</TABLE>
 
     Costs are actuarially determined using the projected unit credit method and
are funded in accordance with U.S. Government cost accounting standards to the
extent such costs are tax-deductible. SFAS No. 87, Employers' Accounting for
Pensions, requires the recognition of an additional pension liability to
increase the amounts recorded up to the unfunded accumulated benefit obligation.
The adjustment required to recognize the minimum pension liability required by
SFAS No. 87 is recorded as an intangible asset to the extent of unrecognized
prior service cost and the remainder, net of applicable deferred income taxes,
is recorded as a reduction of Stockholder's Equity. At December 31, 1996 and
1995, the additional minimum pension liability recorded was $210.8 million and
$204.9 million, respectively, of which $113.5 million and $108.6 million,
respectively, was recorded as a reduction of Stockholder's Equity.
 
     Plan assets are invested primarily in listed common stock, cash and
short-term investment funds, U.S. Government securities, and other investments.
 
     The weighted average discount rates used in determining the actuarial
present values of the projected benefit obligation shown in the table on the
next page were 7.5% and 7.25% at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The
rate of increase in future compensation levels was 5.0% in 1996 and 1995. The
expected long-term rate of return on assets used in determining pension cost was
9.5% for 1996 and 1995.
 
                                      IV-31
<PAGE>   101
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
     The following table sets forth the funded status of the Hughes
non-automotive employee plans and the amounts included in the Consolidated
Balance Sheet.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        DECEMBER 31,
                                          -----------------------------------------
                                                 1996                  1995
                                          -------------------   -------------------
                                           ASSETS     ACCUM.     ASSETS     ACCUM.
                                           EXCEED    BENEFITS    EXCEED    BENEFITS
                                           ACCUM.     EXCEED     ACCUM.     EXCEED
                                          BENEFITS    ASSETS    BENEFITS    ASSETS
                                          --------   --------   --------   --------
                                                    (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                       <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
Actuarial present value of benefits
  based on service to date and present
  pay levels
     Vested.............................  $4,437.0   $ 330.7    $4,685.3   $ 327.5
     Nonvested..........................     403.7       3.9       225.6       4.7
                                          --------   -------    --------   -------
Accumulated benefit obligation..........   4,840.7     334.6     4,910.9     332.2
Additional amounts related to projected
  pay increases.........................     549.3      13.8       456.7      11.0
                                          --------   -------    --------   -------
Total projected benefit obligation based
  on service to date....................   5,390.0     348.4     5,367.6     343.2
Plan assets at fair value...............   7,094.9      70.2     6,397.7      65.9
                                          --------   -------    --------   -------
Plan assets in excess of (less than)
  projected benefit obligation..........   1,704.9    (278.2)    1,030.1    (277.3)
Unamortized net amount resulting from
  changes in plan experience and
  actuarial assumptions.................    (564.0)    208.6       173.3     193.3
Unamortized net asset at date of
  adoption..............................    (106.6)       --      (161.9)       --
Unamortized net amount resulting from
  changes in plan provisions............     (13.0)     15.9       (13.8)     22.6
Adjustment for unfunded pension
  liabilities...........................        --    (210.8)         --    (204.9)
                                          --------   -------    --------   -------
  Net prepaid pension cost (accrued
     liability).........................  $1,021.3   $(264.5)   $1,027.7   $(266.3)
                                          ========   =======    ========   =======
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 5: OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS
 
     Substantially all of the employees of Delco Electronics participate in
various postretirement medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans of
General Motors. Hughes maintains a program for eligible non-automotive retirees
to participate in health care and life insurance benefits generally until they
reach age 65. Qualified employees who elected to participate in the Hughes
contributory defined benefit pension plans may become eligible for these
benefits if they retire from Hughes between the ages of 55 and 65.
 
     The total non-pension postretirement benefit cost of Hughes and its
subsidiaries included the components set forth as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               1996      1995      1994
                                                               ----      ----      ----
                                                                (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>       <C>       <C>
Benefits earned during the year.............................  $ 36.2    $ 33.9    $ 50.1
Interest accrued on benefits earned in prior years..........   116.5     123.3     130.3
Net amortization............................................   (11.0)    (16.5)      7.6
                                                              ------    ------    ------
     Total non-pension postretirement benefit cost..........  $141.7    $140.7    $188.0
                                                              ======    ======    ======
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-32
<PAGE>   102
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
     The following table displays the components of Hughes' obligation
recognized for postretirement benefit plans included in the Consolidated Balance
Sheet:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  DECEMBER 31,
                                                              --------------------
                                                                1996        1995
                                                                ----        ----
                                                                  (DOLLARS IN
                                                                   MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>         <C>
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation attributable
  to
     Current retirees.......................................  $  808.3    $  857.1
     Fully eligible active plan participants................     254.2       221.1
     Other active plan participants.........................     562.0       547.5
                                                              --------    --------
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation...............   1,624.5     1,625.7
Unrecognized net amount resulting from changes in plan
  experience and actuarial assumptions......................     103.7        62.4
                                                              --------    --------
Net postretirement benefit obligation.......................   1,728.2     1,688.1
Less current portion........................................      69.3        77.5
                                                              --------    --------
Net long-term postretirement benefit obligation.............  $1,658.9    $1,610.6
                                                              ========    ========
</TABLE>
 
     The assumed weighted average discount rates used in determining the
actuarial present value of the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation
were 7.56% and 7.25% at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The assumed
weighted average rate of increase in future compensation levels related to pay-
related life insurance benefits was 4.5% at December 31, 1996 and 4.4% at
December 31, 1995.
 
     The assumed weighted average health care cost trend rate was 7.91% in 1996,
decreasing linearly each successive year until it reaches 5.31% in 2006, after
which it remains constant. A one percentage point increase in each year of this
annual trend rate would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit
obligation at December 31, 1996 by approximately $150 million, and increase the
service and interest cost components of the 1996 postretirement benefit expense
by approximately $17 million.
 
     Hughes has disclosed in the consolidated financial statements certain
amounts associated with estimated future postretirement benefits other than
pensions and characterized such amounts as "accumulated postretirement benefit
obligations", "liabilities", or "obligations." Notwithstanding the recording of
such amounts and the use of these terms, Hughes does not admit or otherwise
acknowledge that such amounts or existing postretirement benefit plans of Hughes
(other than pensions) represent legally enforceable liabilities of Hughes.
 
                                      IV-33
<PAGE>   103
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 6: INCOME TAXES
 
     The income tax provision consisted of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 1996        1995         1994
                                                                 ----        ----         ----
                                                                     (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>         <C>          <C>
Taxes currently payable
  U.S. Federal..............................................    $390.7      $ 664.6      $532.2
  Foreign...................................................      11.2         13.4        10.3
  U.S. state and local......................................     102.8        138.4       100.5
                                                                ------      -------      ------
     Total..................................................     504.7        816.4       643.0
                                                                ------      -------      ------
Deferred tax (assets) liabilities -- net
  U.S. Federal..............................................      97.9       (130.0)      (62.2)
  Foreign...................................................       0.3          2.0         1.3
  U.S. state and local......................................       2.8        (42.8)       (9.3)
                                                                ------      -------      ------
     Total..................................................     101.0       (170.8)      (70.2)
                                                                ------      -------      ------
       Total income tax provision...........................    $605.7      $ 645.6      $572.8*
                                                                ======      =======      ======
</TABLE>
 
- ------------------------
* Excluding effect of accounting change.
 
     The deferred income tax benefit in 1994 included a $63.0 million credit
that resulted from an adjustment to the beginning of the year valuation
allowance because of a change in circumstances with respect to Hughes' ability
to realize the benefit from a capital loss carryforward.
 
     Income before income taxes included the following components:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  1996          1995          1994
                                                                  ----          ----          ----
                                                                       (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>           <C>           <C>
U.S. income.................................................    $1,547.1      $1,494.7      $1,448.1
Foreign income..............................................        87.5          99.2          80.5
                                                                --------      --------      --------
  Total.....................................................    $1,634.6      $1,593.9      $1,528.6
                                                                ========      ========      ========
</TABLE>
 
     The consolidated income tax provision was different than the amount
computed using the U.S. statutory income tax rate for the reasons set forth in
the following table:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 1996        1995        1994
                                                                 ----        ----        ----
                                                                    (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>         <C>         <C>
Expected tax at U.S. statutory income tax rate..............    $572.1      $557.9      $535.0
U.S. state and local income taxes...........................      68.6        62.2        59.3
Purchase accounting adjustments.............................      42.8        55.8        43.3
Foreign sales corporation tax benefit.......................     (27.2)      (22.2)      (19.2)
Change in valuation allowance...............................        --          --       (63.0)
Other.......................................................     (50.6)       (8.1)       17.4
                                                                ------      ------      ------
  Consolidated income tax provision.........................    $605.7      $645.6      $572.8*
                                                                ======      ======      ======
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
* Excluding effect of accounting change.
 
                                      IV-34
<PAGE>   104
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
     Temporary differences and carryforwards which gave rise to deferred tax
assets and liabilities were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            DECEMBER 31,
                                                      --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                1996                           1995
                                                      -------------------------      -------------------------
                                                      DEFERRED       DEFERRED        DEFERRED       DEFERRED
                                                        TAX             TAX            TAX             TAX
                                                       ASSETS       LIABILITIES       ASSETS       LIABILITIES
                                                      --------      -----------      --------      -----------
                                                                       (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                   <C>           <C>              <C>           <C>
Postretirement benefits other than pensions.......    $  763.6       $     --        $  704.9       $     --
Profits on long-term contracts....................       370.7          142.3           384.5          203.5
Leveraged leases..................................       119.6             --            74.9             --
Employee benefit programs.........................       148.9          387.8           185.2          393.3
Depreciation......................................          --          496.2              --          479.5
Special provision for restructuring...............        29.0             --            56.4             --
Other.............................................       313.2          251.6           445.2          220.3
                                                      --------       --------        --------       --------
  Subtotal........................................     1,745.0        1,277.9         1,851.1        1,296.6
Valuation allowance...............................       (33.6)            --           (22.8)            --
                                                      --------       --------        --------       --------
  Total deferred taxes............................    $1,711.4       $1,277.9        $1,828.3       $1,296.6
                                                      ========       ========        ========       ========
</TABLE>
 
     Provision has been made for U.S. Federal income taxes to be paid on that
portion of the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that has not been
deemed permanently reinvested. At December 31, 1996 and 1995, undistributed
earnings of foreign subsidiaries amounted to approximately $462.3 million and
$397.4 million, respectively. Repatriation of all accumulated foreign earnings
would have resulted in tax liabilities of $122.6 million and $110.3 million,
respectively, for which Hughes has provided deferred tax liabilities of $93.4
million and $82.8 million, respectively.
 
     At December 31, 1996, Hughes had $73.6 million of foreign operating loss
carryforwards which expire in varying amounts between 1997 and 2001. The
valuation allowance includes a provision for all of the foreign operating loss
carryforwards. In addition, Hughes had $19.6 million of capital loss
carryforwards, of which $12.3 million will expire in 1998 and $7.3 million will
expire in 2000. No valuation allowance has been provided for the capital loss
carryforwards.
 
NOTE 7: EARNINGS ATTRIBUTABLE TO GENERAL MOTORS CLASS H COMMON STOCK ON A PER
        SHARE BASIS AND AVAILABLE SEPARATE CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME
 
     Earnings attributable to General Motors Class H common stock on a per share
basis have been determined based on the relative amounts available for the
payment of dividends to holders of the GM Class H common stock. Holders of GM
Class H common stock have no direct rights in the equity or assets of Hughes,
but rather have rights in the equity and assets of GM (which includes 100% of
the stock of Hughes).
 
     Dividends on the GM Class H common stock are declared by GM's Board of
Directors out of the Available Separate Consolidated Net Income of Hughes earned
since the acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company by GM. The Available Separate
Consolidated Net Income of Hughes is determined quarterly and is equal to the
separate consolidated net income of Hughes, excluding the effects of GM purchase
accounting adjustments arising from the acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company
(Earnings Used for Computation of Available Separate Consolidated Net Income),
multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is a number equal to the
weighted average number of shares of GM Class H common stock outstanding during
the period and the denominator of which was 399.9 million during the fourth
quarters of 1996, 1995, and 1994.
 
     The denominator used in determining the Available Separate Consolidated Net
Income of Hughes is adjusted as deemed appropriate by the GM Board of Directors
to reflect subdivisions or combinations of the GM Class H common stock and to
reflect certain transfers of capital to or from Hughes. The GM Board's
 
                                      IV-35
<PAGE>   105
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
discretion to make such adjustments is limited by criteria set forth in GM's
Certificate of Incorporation. In this regard, the GM Board has generally caused
the denominator to decrease as shares are purchased by Hughes, and to increase
as such shares are used, at Hughes expense, for Hughes employee benefit plans or
acquisitions.
 
     Dividends may be paid on GM Class H common stock only when, as, and if
declared by the GM Board of Directors in its sole discretion. The current policy
of the GM Board with respect to GM Class H common stock is to pay cash dividends
approximately equal to 35% of the Available Separate Consolidated Net Income of
Hughes for the prior year. Notwithstanding the current dividend policy, the
dividends paid on the GM Class H Common Stock during 1996, 1995, and 1994 were
based on an annual rate higher than 35% of the Available Separate Consolidated
Net Income of Hughes for the preceding year.
 
NOTE 8: PROPERTY -- NET
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          ESTIMATED
                                           USEFUL
                                            LIVES
                                           (YEARS)       1996        1995
                                          ---------      ----        ----
                                                           (DOLLARS IN
                                                            MILLIONS)
<S>                                       <C>          <C>         <C>
Land and improvements...................    10-40      $  187.6    $  189.7
Buildings and unamortized leasehold
  improvements..........................     5-45       1,361.5     1,293.3
Machinery and equipment.................     3-13       3,140.3     2,874.2
Furniture, fixtures, and office
  machines..............................     5-15         139.1       118.3
Construction in progress................       --         348.5       439.9
                                                       --------    --------
     Total..............................                5,177.0     4,915.4
Less accumulated depreciation...........                2,378.1     2,244.2
                                                       --------    --------
Net real estate, plants, and
  equipment.............................                2,798.9     2,671.2
Special tools -- less amortization......        3          87.7        68.0
                                                       --------    --------
     Property -- net....................               $2,886.6    $2,739.2
                                                       ========    ========
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 9: NOTES AND LOANS PAYABLE AND LONG-TERM DEBT AND CAPITALIZED LEASES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            1996         1995
                                            ----         ----
                                          (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                       <C>          <C>
Loans payable to banks..................     $ 10.2       $ 15.1
Current portion of long-term debt.......      151.4          7.2
Current portion of GM term loans........       58.8         85.0
Other...................................       27.7        325.2
                                             ------       ------
     Total notes and loans payable......     $248.1       $432.5
                                             ======       ======
Foreign bank debt.......................     $ 27.1       $ 53.8
Term loans
  GM....................................       58.8        143.8
  Other.................................      150.0        150.0
Other debt..............................         --          2.9
                                             ------       ------
     Total..............................      235.9        350.5
Less current portion....................      210.2         92.2
                                             ------       ------
Long-term debt..........................       25.7        258.3
Capitalized leases......................        8.8           .5
                                             ------       ------
     Total long-term debt and
       capitalized leases...............     $ 34.5       $258.8
                                             ======       ======
</TABLE>
 
     At December 31, 1996, Hughes had $550.0 million and $650.0 million of
unused credit available under short-term lines of credit and an unsecured
revolving credit loan agreement, respectively. The unsecured
 
                                      IV-36
<PAGE>   106
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
revolving credit loan agreement provides for a commitment of $650.0 million
through January 2000, subject to a facility fee of 0.10% per annum. Borrowings
under the agreement bear interest at a rate which approximates the London
Interbank Offered Rate plus 0.175%. No amounts were outstanding under the
agreement or the short-term lines of credit at December 31, 1996.
 
     At December 31, 1996, foreign bank debt included $27.1 million denominated
in British pounds sterling, bearing interest at rates ranging from 5.9% to 7.1%,
with maturity dates from 1997 to 2003.
 
     The GM term loan bears interest at 6.1% with a maturity date in 1997. The
other term loans consisted of notes payable to an insurance company bearing
interest at rates ranging from 7.7% to 8.0% with maturity dates in 1997.
 
     Other notes and loans payable for 1995 included $302.7 million related to
the acquisition of Magnavox Electronic Systems Company (see Note 13). The note,
which bore interest at a rate of 5.3%, was repaid in full on January 5, 1996.
 
     Annual maturities of long-term debt and capitalized leases are $210.2
million in 1997, $2.4 million in 1998, $2.5 million in 1999, $2.8 million in
2000, $3.1 million in 2001, and $23.7 million thereafter.
 
     Property with a net book value of $14.8 million at December 31, 1996 was
pledged as collateral under such debt.
 
NOTE 10: ACCRUED LIABILITIES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             1996         1995
                                                             ----         ----
                                                           (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                        <C>          <C>
Payrolls and other compensation..........................   $  671.3     $  553.2
Provision for losses on contracts........................      356.3        408.4
Accrual for restructuring................................       32.9        115.9
Other....................................................      965.3        968.8
                                                            --------     --------
     Total...............................................   $2,025.8     $2,046.3
                                                            ========     ========
</TABLE>
 
     Certain amounts for 1995 have been reclassified to conform with 1996
classifications.
 
                                      IV-37
<PAGE>   107
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 11: STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
 
     The authorized capital stock of Hughes consists of 1,000 shares of $0.10
par value common stock. At December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994, 1,000 shares
having an aggregate par value of $100 were issued and outstanding. All of the
outstanding capital stock of Hughes is held by General Motors.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            1996        1995        1994
                                            ----        ----        ----
                                               (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                       <C>         <C>         <C>
Capital stock and additional paid-in
  capital
  Balance at beginning of the year......  $6,338.1     6,326.5    $6,323.1
  Tax benefit from exercise of GM Class
     H common stock options.............       9.1        11.6         3.4
                                          --------    --------    --------
     Balance at end of the year.........  $6,347.2    $6,338.1    $6,326.5
                                          ========    ========    ========
Net income retained for use in the
  business
  Balance at beginning of the year......  $2,323.9    $1,743.6    $1,138.2
  Net income............................   1,028.9       948.3       925.4
  Cash dividends paid to General
     Motors.............................    (384.0)     (368.0)     (320.0)
                                          --------    --------    --------
     Balance at end of the year.........  $2,968.8    $2,323.9    $1,743.6
                                          ========    ========    ========
Minimum pension liability adjustment
  Balance at beginning of the year......  $ (108.6)   $  (76.1)   $ (120.4)
  Change during the year................      (4.9)      (32.5)       44.3
                                          --------    --------    --------
     Balance at end of the year.........  $ (113.5)   $ (108.6)   $  (76.1)
                                          ========    ========    ========
Accumulated foreign currency translation
  adjustments
  Balance at beginning of the year......  $  (27.7)   $  (18.2)   $  (12.8)
  Change during the year................       5.1        (9.5)       (5.4)
                                          --------    --------    --------
     Balance at end of the year.........  $  (22.6)   $  (27.7)   $  (18.2)
                                          ========    ========    ========
</TABLE>
 
     As sole stockholder of Hughes, GM is able to cause Hughes to pay cash
dividends and make advances to or otherwise enter into transactions with GM as
GM deems desirable and appropriate. GM reserves the right to cause Hughes to pay
cash dividends to GM in such amounts as GM determines are desirable under the
then prevailing facts and circumstances. Such amounts may be the same as,
greater than, or less than the cash dividends paid by GM on its Class H common
stock. There is no fixed relationship, on a per share or aggregate basis,
between the cash dividends that may be paid by GM to holders of its Class H
common stock and the cash dividends or other amounts that may be paid by Hughes
to GM.
 
NOTE 12: SPECIAL PROVISION FOR RESTRUCTURING
 
     In 1992, Hughes recorded a special restructuring charge of $1,237.0 million
primarily attributable to redundant facilities and related employment costs. The
special charge comprehended a reduction of Hughes' worldwide employment, a major
facilities consolidation, and a reevaluation of certain business lines that no
longer met Hughes' strategic objectives. Restructuring costs of $92.4 million,
$208.8 million and $228.3 million were charged against the reserve during 1996,
1995, and 1994, respectively. In addition, in 1994 the restructuring reserve was
increased by $35.0 million primarily due to changes in the estimated loss on
disposition of a subsidiary. The remaining liability at December 31, 1996 of
$42.0 million relates primarily to reserves for excess facilities and other site
consolidation costs. Approximately $40.7 million of this total will require
future cash outflows. It is expected that these costs will be expended
predominantly during the next year.
 
                                      IV-38
<PAGE>   108
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
NOTE 13: ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES
 
     In December 1996, Hughes announced that it had reached an agreement to
acquire the Marine Systems Division of Alliant Techsystems, Inc. for $141.0
million in cash. The Marine Systems Division is a leader in lightweight torpedo
manufacturing and the design and manufacturing of underwater surveillance, sonar
and mine warfare systems. The acquisition was completed in the first quarter of
1997.
 
     In September 1996, Hughes and PanAmSat Corporation entered into an
agreement to merge their respective satellite services operations into a new
publicly-held company. Hughes would contribute its Galaxy(R) satellite services
business in exchange for a 71.5% interest in the new company. Current PanAmSat
stockholders would receive a 28.5% interest in the new company and $1.5 billion
in cash. The source of the cash component of the consideration is expected to be
new debt financing, which will be an obligation of the new company. PanAmSat is
a leading provider of international satellite services. The transaction, which
is contingent upon receiving certain regulatory approvals, is expected to close
during the second quarter of 1997.
 
     In March 1996, Hughes sold a 2.5% equity interest in DIRECTV(R), a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Hughes, to AT&T for $137.5 million, with options to
increase their ownership interest under certain conditions. The sale resulted in
a $120.3 million pre-tax gain which is included in other income.
 
     In February 1995, Hughes acquired substantially all of the assets of
CAE-Link Corporation for $176.0 million in cash. CAE-Link is an established
supplier of simulation, training, and technical services, primarily to the U.S.
military and NASA. In December 1995, Hughes acquired all of the stock of
Magnavox Electronic Systems Company (Magnavox) for $382.4 million, consisting of
cash of $70.5 million, a note payable of $302.7 million, and estimated
additional amounts to be paid of $9.2 million. Magnavox is a leading supplier of
military tactical communications, electronic warfare, and command and control
systems. In addition, Hughes acquired several other enterprises with operations
that complement existing technological capabilities at aggregate purchase
prices, paid in cash, of $28.7 million and $63.0 million in 1996 and 1995,
respectively.
 
     All acquisitions were accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting. The operating results of the entities acquired were consolidated
with those of Hughes from their respective acquisition dates. These acquisitions
did not have a material impact on the operating results of Hughes. The purchase
price of each acquisition was allocated to the net assets acquired, including
intangible assets, based upon their estimated fair values at the date of
acquisition.
 
     During 1995, Hughes divested several non-strategic enterprises generating
aggregate proceeds of approximately $127.2 million and a net loss of
approximately $8.2 million, which included the write-off of $30.1 million of
purchase accounting adjustments related to GM's acquisition of Hughes Aircraft
Company. Also in 1995, Hughes recorded a $46.0 million charge for the estimated
loss on disposition of a business unit (including $6.0 million related to the
write-off of GM purchase accounting adjustments) and completed the divestiture
of Hughes LAN Systems, for which a pre-tax charge of $35.0 million was taken in
1994.
 
NOTE 14: DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT
 
     Hughes is a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in
the normal course of business to reduce its exposure to fluctuations in foreign
exchange rates. The primary class of derivatives used by Hughes is foreign
exchange-forward contracts. These instruments involve, to varying degrees,
elements of credit risk in the event a counterparty should default and market
risk as the instruments are subject to rate and price fluctuations. Credit risk
is managed through the periodic monitoring and approval of financially sound
counterparties. Market risk is mitigated because the derivatives are used to
hedge underlying transactions. Cash receipts or payments on these contracts
normally occur at maturity. Hughes holds derivatives only for purposes other
than trading.
 
                                      IV-39
<PAGE>   109
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
     Foreign exchange-forward contracts are legal agreements between two parties
to purchase and sell a foreign currency, for a price specified at the contract
date, with delivery and settlement in the future. Hughes uses these agreements
to hedge risk of changes in foreign currency exchange rates associated with
certain firm commitments denominated in foreign currency.
 
     The total notional amount of foreign exchange-forward contracts Hughes held
at December 31, 1996 and 1995 was approximately $223 million and $289 million,
respectively. Hughes' open contracts extend for periods averaging six months.
 
NOTE 15: FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
 
     For notes and loans payable and long-term debt and capitalized leases, the
estimated fair value (which approximates book value) was $283.2 million and
$694.9 million at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Such fair value is
based on the quoted market prices for similar issues or on the current rates
offered to Hughes for debt of similar remaining maturities. The carrying value
of debt with an original term of less than 90 days is assumed to approximate
fair value.
 
     The fair values of derivative financial instruments reflect the estimated
amounts Hughes would receive or pay to terminate the contracts at the reporting
date, which takes into account the current unrealized gains or losses on open
contracts that are deferred and recognized when the offsetting gains and losses
are recognized on the related hedged items. The fair value of foreign
exchange-forward contracts is estimated based on foreign exchange rate quotes at
the reporting date. At December 31, 1996 and 1995, the estimated fair value of
open contracts, which were in a net gain position, was $4.5 million and $10.7
million, respectively.
 
     For all financial instruments not described above, fair value approximates
book value.
 
NOTE 16: SEGMENT REPORTING
 
     Hughes operates within the field of modern high-technology electronics for
use in Telecommunications and Space, Automotive Electronics, and Aerospace and
Defense Systems business segments. The Telecommunications and Space segment
includes satellite construction, ownership and operation, communication
services, ground equipment, and direct-to-home satellite television
entertainment services. Radios, controls for engines and transmissions,
navigation and communication systems, monitors and sensors for air bags,
controllers for anti-lock brakes, climate control, dashboard instrumentation,
vehicle security electronics, and other automotive electronic products are
included in the Automotive Electronics segment. The Aerospace and Defense
Systems segment includes missile systems, command and control systems, torpedoes
and sonar systems, electro-optical systems, airborne radar and communication
systems, military training and simulation systems, air traffic control systems,
information systems, and guidance and control systems. Intercompany transfers
between segments are not material. Information concerning operations by segment
is shown on the next page:
 
                                      IV-40
<PAGE>   110
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    AEROSPACE
                                         TELECOM.    AUTOMOTIVE     & DEFENSE    CORPORATE
                                         & SPACE     ELECTRONICS     SYSTEMS      & OTHER       TOTAL
                                         --------    -----------    ---------    ---------      -----
                                                             (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                      <C>         <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>
Revenues
  1996...............................    $4,114.9     $5,350.8      $6,338.4      $ 113.8     $15,917.9
  1995...............................     3,092.7      5,561.3       5,945.4        172.4      14,771.8
  1994...............................     2,596.2      5,221.7       6,023.6        257.9      14,099.4
Operating Profit (Loss)(1)
  1996...............................    $  238.8     $  654.0      $  593.8      $ (14.6)    $ 1,472.0
  1995...............................       168.2        869.0         587.1        (80.4)      1,543.9
  1994...............................       250.0        794.8         562.7       (100.9)      1,506.6
Identifiable Assets at Year End(2)
  1996...............................    $4,874.7     $3,394.9      $7,544.7      $ 665.8     $16,480.1
  1995...............................     4,309.0      3,267.4       7,718.4        679.6      15,974.4
  1994...............................     3,727.8      3,429.8       6,712.0        980.9      14,850.5
Depreciation and Amortization(1)
  1996...............................    $  215.8     $  195.9      $  258.5      $  12.4     $   682.6
  1995...............................       199.3        151.4         232.9         27.5         611.1
  1994...............................       161.8        142.2         259.4         30.6         594.0
Capital Expenditures(3)
  1996...............................    $  449.8     $  196.0      $  171.1      $  23.3     $   840.2
  1995...............................       436.5        264.7         109.8          9.3         820.3
  1994...............................       399.3        166.4         159.5         21.1         746.3
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
Certain amounts for 1995 have been reclassified to conform with 1996
classifications.
 
(1) Includes purchase accounting adjustments associated with GM's purchase of
    Hughes Aircraft Company of $122.3 million in 1996 ($21.0 million, $100.9
    million, and $0.4 million related to Telecommunications and Space, Aerospace
    and Defense Systems, and Corporate and Other, respectively), $123.4 million
    in 1995 ($21.0 million, $100.9 million, and $1.5 million related to
    Telecommunications and Space, Aerospace and Defense Systems, and Corporate
    and Other, respectively) and $123.8 million in 1994 ($21.0 million, $100.9
    million, and $1.9 million related to Telecommunications and Space, Aerospace
    and Defense Systems, and Corporate and Other, respectively).
 
(2) Identifiable assets include the unamortized purchase accounting adjustments
    associated with the purchase of Hughes Aircraft Company as detailed below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     AEROSPACE
                                         TELECOM.    & DEFENSE    CORP. &
                                         & SPACE      SYSTEMS      OTHER      TOTAL
                                         --------    ---------    -------     -----
<S>                                      <C>         <C>          <C>        <C>
1996.................................     $468.0     $2,247.8      $ 7.7     $2,723.5
1995.................................      489.0      2,348.7        8.1      2,845.8
1994.................................      510.0      2,449.6       45.7      3,005.3
</TABLE>
 
(3) Telecommunications and Space includes expenditures related to
    telecommunications and other equipment amounting to $187.9 million, $274.6
    million, and $255.8 million in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
 
                                      IV-41
<PAGE>   111
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
     A reconciliation of operating profit shown on the previous page to Income
before Income Taxes shown in the Consolidated Statement of Income and Available
Separate Consolidated Net Income follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  1996          1995          1994
                                                                  ----          ----          ----
                                                                       (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>           <C>           <C>
Operating Profit............................................    $1,472.0      $1,543.9      $1,506.6
Other Income -- net.........................................       173.8          57.5          37.1
Interest Expense -- net.....................................       (11.2)         (7.5)        (15.1)
                                                                --------      --------      --------
  Income before Income Taxes................................    $1,634.6      $1,593.9      $1,528.6
                                                                ========      ========      ========
</TABLE>
 
     Export sales from the U.S. were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  1996          1995          1994
                                                                  ----          ----          ----
                                                                       (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>           <C>           <C>
Africa......................................................    $   42.2      $   25.4      $   25.8
Asia........................................................     1,168.1         948.9         758.2
Canada......................................................       721.3         861.8         876.3
Europe......................................................     1,296.8         929.4         678.6
Mexico......................................................       196.2         143.4          96.9
Other Latin America.........................................       115.5          76.0          90.3
Middle East.................................................       250.9         327.0         370.1
                                                                --------      --------      --------
          Total.............................................    $3,791.0      $3,311.9      $2,896.2
                                                                ========      ========      ========
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 17: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
     Hughes signed agreements in 1995 and 1996 to procure commercial satellite
launches, a significant number of which are expected to be used in connection
with satellites ordered by outside customers. The agreements provide for
launches beginning in 1998 and also contain options for additional launch
vehicles. The total amount of the commitment, which is dependent upon the number
of options exercised, market conditions, and other factors, could exceed $2
billion.
 
     In December 1994, Hughes entered into an agreement with Computer Sciences
Corporation (CSC) whereby CSC provides a significant amount of the
non-automotive data processing services required by Hughes. Baseline service
payments to CSC are expected to aggregate approximately $1.5 billion over the
term of the eight-year agreement. The contract is cancelable by Hughes with
substantial early termination penalties.
 
     Minimum future commitments under operating leases having noncancelable
lease terms in excess of one year, primarily for real property and satellite
transponders, aggregating $2,552.5 million, are payable as follows: $274.8
million in 1997, $244.5 million in 1998, $265.9 million in 1999, $289.7 million
in 2000, $208.8 million in 2001, and $1,268.8 million thereafter. Certain of
these leases contain escalation clauses and renewal or purchase options. Rental
expenses under operating leases were $279.4 million in 1996, $257.9 million in
1995, and $306.2 million in 1994.
 
     Hughes has issued or is a party to various guarantees and letter of credit
agreements totaling $813.4 million at December 31, 1996. In the Company's past
experience, virtually no claims have been made against these financial
instruments.
 
     Hughes and its subsidiaries are subject to potential liability under
government regulations and various claims and legal actions which are pending or
may be asserted against them. The aggregate ultimate liability of Hughes and its
subsidiaries under these government regulations, and under these claims and
actions, was not determinable at December 31, 1996. In the opinion of management
of Hughes, such liability is not expected to have a material adverse effect on
Hughes' consolidated operations or financial position.
 
                                      IV-42
<PAGE>   112
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONTINUED
 
     Hughes has maintained a suit against the U.S. Government since September
1973, regarding the Government's infringement and use of a Hughes patent (the
"Williams Patent") covering "Velocity Control and Orientation of a Spin
Stabilized Body," principally satellites. On June 17, 1994, the U.S. Court of
Claims awarded Hughes damages of $114 million. Because Hughes believed that the
record supported a higher royalty rate, it appealed that decision. The U.S.
Government, contending that the award was too high, also appealed. On June 19,
1996, the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed the decision of the
Court of Claims which awarded Hughes $114 million in damages, together with
interest. The U.S. Government petitioned the Court of Appeals for the Federal
Circuit for a rehearing. That petition was denied in October of 1996. The U.S.
Government has filed a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court seeking certiorari.
In the opinion of management of Hughes, there is a reasonable possibility that
this matter could be resolved in the near term. While no amount has been
recorded in the financial statements of Hughes to reflect the $114 million
award, a resolution of this matter could result in a gain that would be material
to the earnings of General Motors attributable to Class H common stock.
 
NOTE 18: SUBSEQUENT EVENT
 
     On January 16, 1997, GM and Hughes announced a series of planned
transactions that would impact the defense electronics, automotive electronics,
and telecommunications and space businesses of Hughes. The transactions would
include:
 
        - The tax-free spin-off of 100% of the Hughes defense business, to
          holders of GM's $1 2/3 par value and Class H common stocks;
 
        - The tax-free merger of the Hughes defense business with Raytheon
          Company (Raytheon) immediately following the spin-off, after which
          there would be outstanding two classes of Raytheon/Hughes defense
          common stock;
 
        - The transfer of Delco Electronics (Delco), the automotive electronics
          subsidiary of Hughes, from Hughes to GM's Delphi Automotive Systems
          and a reallocation of the derivative interest in the earnings of Delco
          currently held by Class H common stockholders to holders of $1 2/3 par
          value common stock; and
 
        - The recapitalization of Class H common stock into a tracking stock
          linked solely to the telecommunications and space business of Hughes.
          GM would continue to own 100% of Hughes, which would hold and operate
          its existing telecommunications and space business.
 
     The distribution of stock in the Hughes defense business to holders of GM
Class H and $1 2/3 par value common stock would be in a ratio that would be
determined by GM's Board of Directors to be fair to both classes of stockholders
and would reflect: (1) a pro rata spin-off of the Hughes defense business to
holders of GM Class H and $1 2/3 par value common stock; (2) a partial
reallocation of the Hughes defense business from holders of GM $1 2/3 par value
common stock to holders of Class H common stock in exchange for the derivative
interest in the earnings of Delco currently held by the Class H stockholders;
and (3) other effects of and factors relating to the planned transactions. Such
a distribution ratio will be set by GM's Board of Directors at a time closer to
GM's distribution of the solicitation statement/prospectus pursuant to which GM
stockholders will be asked to approve the transactions.
 
                                      IV-43
<PAGE>   113
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- CONCLUDED
 
     The planned transactions are subject to approval by holders of GM $1 2/3
par value and Class H common stock. In addition, the merger of the Hughes
defense business with Raytheon, which is contingent upon the spin-off of the
Hughes defense business, is subject to approval by the stockholders of Raytheon.
The planned transactions also are subject to a variety of regulatory approvals
and actions, including anti-trust clearance and receipt of rulings by the
Internal Revenue Service that the spin-off of the Hughes defense business would
be tax-free to GM and its stockholders.
 
     The spin-off is not being proposed in a manner that would result in the
recapitalization of Class H common stock into $1 2/3 par value common stock at a
120% exchange ratio, as currently provided for under certain circumstances in
GM's Restated Certificate of Incorporation.
 
     No assurances can be given that the above transactions will be completed;
however, management of GM and Hughes and GM's Board of Directors expect to
solicit stockholder approval during the third quarter of 1997, after certain
conditions are satisfied.
 
                                      IV-44
<PAGE>   114
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                            SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
 
SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            1ST         2ND         3RD         4TH
                                                            ---         ---         ---         ---
                                                                      (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS
                                                                   EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                       <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
1996 QUARTERS
Revenues..............................................    $3,736.7    $4,062.5    $3,822.6    $4,296.1
                                                          ========    ========    ========    ========
Income before income taxes............................    $  472.5    $  448.3    $  366.2    $  347.6
Income taxes..........................................       191.4       172.3       144.7        97.3
                                                          --------    --------    --------    --------
Net income............................................    $  281.1    $  276.0    $  221.5    $  250.3
                                                          ========    ========    ========    ========
Earnings used for computation of available separate
  consolidated net income.............................    $  311.7    $  306.6    $  252.0    $  280.9
Average number of shares of General Motors Class H
  common stock outstanding (in millions)..............        97.4        98.2        98.8        99.3
Class H dividend base (in millions)...................       399.9       399.9       399.9       399.9
Available separate consolidated net income............    $   76.0    $   75.2    $   62.3    $   69.8
                                                          ========    ========    ========    ========
Net earnings attributable to General Motors Class H
  common stock on a per share basis...................    $   0.78    $   0.77    $   0.63    $   0.70
                                                          ========    ========    ========    ========
Stock price range of General Motors Class H common
  stock
  High................................................    $  63.38    $  68.25    $  61.38    $  59.25
  Low.................................................    $  45.00    $  57.50    $  53.13    $  49.50
</TABLE>
 
SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            1ST         2ND         3RD         4TH
                                                            ---         ---         ---         ---
                                                                      (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS
                                                                   EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                       <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
1995 QUARTERS
Revenues..............................................    $3,578.8    $3,723.6    $3,441.3    $4,028.1
                                                          ========    ========    ========    ========
Income before income taxes............................    $  403.3    $  436.3    $  310.6    $  443.7
Income taxes..........................................       165.4       178.8       121.6       179.8
                                                          --------    --------    --------    --------
Net income............................................    $  237.9    $  257.5    $  189.0    $  263.9
                                                          ========    ========    ========    ========
Earnings used for computation of available separate
  consolidated net income.............................    $  268.9    $  288.4    $  256.1    $  294.4
Average number of shares of General Motors Class H
  common stock outstanding (in millions)..............        94.2        95.4        95.9        96.5
Class H dividend base (in millions)...................       399.9       399.9       399.9       399.9
Available separate consolidated net income............    $   63.3    $   68.8    $   61.4    $   71.1
                                                          ========    ========    ========    ========
Net earnings attributable to General Motors Class H
  common stock on a per share basis...................    $   0.67    $   0.72    $   0.64    $   0.74
                                                          ========    ========    ========    ========
Stock price range of General Motors Class H common
  stock
  High................................................    $  41.75    $  41.63    $  42.75    $  50.00
  Low.................................................    $  33.25    $  37.75    $  39.13    $  39.50
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-45
<PAGE>   115
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION -- CONCLUDED
 
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             1996        1995        1994        1993        1992
                                             ----        ----        ----        ----        ----
                                                (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                        <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>
Revenues................................   $15,917.9   $14,771.8   $14,099.4   $13,517.5   $12,297.1
Earnings (Loss) used for computation of
  available separate consolidated net
  income (loss).........................   $ 1,151.2   $ 1,107.8   $ 1,049.2   $   921.6   $  (921.6)
Average number of shares of General
  Motors Class H common stock
  outstanding (in millions).............        98.4        95.5        92.1        88.6        75.3
Class H dividend base (in millions).....       399.9       399.9       399.9       399.9       399.9
Available separate consolidated net
  income (loss).........................   $   283.3   $   264.6   $   241.6   $   204.5   $  (142.3)
GM Class H cash dividends...............   $    94.4   $    87.9   $    73.8   $    64.1   $    53.3
Dividend payout ratio (1)...............        35.7%       36.4%       36.0%        N/A        51.0%
Earnings (Loss) attributable to General
  Motors Class H common stock on a per
  share basis before cumulative effect
  of accounting changes.................   $    2.88   $    2.77   $    2.70   $    2.30   $   (0.11)
Earnings (Loss) attributable to General
  Motors Class H common stock on a per
  share basis after cumulative effect of
  accounting changes....................   $    2.88   $    2.77   $    2.62   $    2.30   $   (2.29)
Capital expenditures(2).................   $   840.2   $   820.3   $   746.3   $   580.0   $   558.5
Cash and cash equivalents...............   $ 1,161.3   $ 1,139.5   $ 1,501.8   $ 1,008.7   $   702.7
Working capital.........................   $ 2,879.4   $ 2,502.0   $ 2,695.5   $ 2,165.2   $ 1,692.4
Total assets............................   $16,480.1   $15,974.4   $14,850.5   $14,117.1   $14,209.2
Long-term debt and capitalized leases...   $    34.5   $   258.8   $   353.5   $   416.8   $   711.0
Return on equity*(3)....................        11.6%       11.5%       12.1%       11.3%      (13.9)%
Income (Loss) before interest and taxes
  as a percent of capitalization (4)....        18.3%       18.7%       19.0%       18.0%       (2.3)%
Pre-tax return on total assets (5)......        10.1%       10.3%       10.6%        9.7%       (1.8)%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 *  Includes unfavorable cumulative effect of accounting changes of $30.4
    million in 1994 and $872.1 million in 1992.
 
(1) GM Class H cash dividends divided by available separate consolidated net
    income for the prior year.
 
(2) Includes expenditures related to telecommunications and other equipment
    amounting to $187.9 million, $274.6 million, $255.8 million, $131.1 million,
    and $101.6 million in 1996, 1995, 1994, 1993, and 1992, respectively.
 
(3) Net income (loss) divided by average stockholder's equity (General Motors'
    equity in its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hughes). Holders of GM Class H common
    stock have no direct rights in the equity or assets of Hughes, but rather
    have rights in the equity and assets of GM (which includes 100% of the stock
    of Hughes).
 
(4) Income (Loss) before interest and taxes divided by average stockholder's
    equity plus average debt.
 
(5) Income (Loss) before Income Taxes divided by average Total Assets.
 
                                      IV-46
<PAGE>   116
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                      MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
 
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW
 
     The following discussion excludes purchase accounting adjustments related
to General Motors' acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company (see Supplemental Data
beginning on page IV-54).
 
     Statements made concerning expected financial performance, ongoing
financial performance strategies, and possible future action which Hughes
intends to pursue to achieve strategic objectives for each of its three
principal business segments (including the planned transactions described below)
constitute forward-looking information. The implementation of these strategies
and of such future actions and the achievement of such financial performance are
each subject to numerous conditions, uncertainties and risk factors, and,
accordingly, no assurance can be given that Hughes will be able to successfully
accomplish its strategic objectives or achieve such financial performance. The
principal important risk factors which could cause actual performance and future
actions to differ materially from the forward-looking statements made herein
include economic conditions, product demand and market acceptance, government
action, competition, ability to achieve cost reductions, GM's global sourcing
strategy with respect to automotive electronics, General Motors' North American
Operations (GM-NAO) volumes, technological risk, interruptions to production
attributable to causes outside Hughes' control, and the receipt of various
approvals with respect to the planned transactions.
 
GENERAL
 
     On January 16, 1997, GM and Hughes announced a series of planned
transactions designed to address strategic challenges and unlock stockholder
value in the three Hughes business segments. The transactions would include the
tax-free spin-off of the Hughes defense business to holders of GM's $1 2/3 par
value and Class H common stocks, followed immediately by the tax-free merger of
that business with Raytheon Company (Raytheon). The spin-off is not being
proposed in a manner that would result in the recapitalization of Class H common
stock into $1 2/3 par value common stock at a 120% exchange ratio, as currently
provided for under certain circumstances in the General Motors Restated
Certificate of Incorporation, as amended. At the same time, Delco Electronics,
the automotive electronics subsidiary of Hughes, would be transferred from
Hughes to GM's Delphi Automotive Systems unit. Finally, GM's Class H common
stock would be recapitalized into a tracking stock linked solely to the
telecommunications and space business of Hughes. After the spin-off and tax-free
merger of the Hughes defense business with Raytheon, there would be outstanding
two classes of Raytheon/Hughes defense common stock: Class A common stock,
approximately 103 million shares of which would have been distributed to GM's
$1 2/3 and Class H stockholders in the spin-off, and Class B common stock which
would be exchanged for Raytheon common stock on a one-for-one share basis in the
merger. The common stock of the Hughes defense business that would be
distributed to GM common stockholders would represent approximately 30% of the
stock of the combined company. The distribution of stock in the Hughes defense
business to holders of GM Class H and $1 2/3 par value common stock would be in
a ratio that would be determined by GM's Board of Directors to be fair to both
classes of stockholders and would reflect: (1) a pro rata spin-off of the Hughes
defense business to holders of GM Class H and $1 2/3 par value common stock; (2)
a partial reallocation of the Hughes defense business from holders of GM $1 2/3
par value common stock to holders of Class H common stock in exchange for the
derivative interest in the earnings of Delco currently held by the Class H
stockholders; and (3) other effects of and factors relating to the planned
transactions. Such a distribution ratio will be set by GM's Board of Directors
at a time closer to GM's distribution of the solicitation statement/prospectus
pursuant to which GM stockholders will be asked to approve the transactions.
 
     The spin-off of the Hughes defense business and merger with Raytheon would
have an indicated total value of $9.5 billion to GM and its common stockholders
based on stock prices as of the announcement date. That value would consist of a
combination of approximately $4.7 billion of total debt obligations of the
Hughes defense business at the time of the merger, and $4.8 billion of indicated
value of Hughes defense stock to be
 
                                      IV-47
<PAGE>   117
 
distributed to common stockholders (after giving affect to the merger based on
the market price of Raytheon common stock as of the announcement date of
$47.00). The merger terms provide that the total debt of the Hughes defense
business will be adjusted to reflect variations in the average market price of
Raytheon stock, subject to specified limits, so that the two components of value
will total $9.5 billion so long as such market price is in a range of between
$44.42 and $54.29 per share. Substantially all of such debt would be incurred
immediately prior to the spin-off, with the proceeds used principally to fund
the telecommunications and space business of Hughes.
 
     Consummation of the transactions described previously is subject to various
contingencies, including regulatory clearances and approval by GM common
stockholders. Additional information regarding these planned transactions is
included in Note 18 to the Hughes Consolidated Financial Statements. These
planned transactions had no impact on 1996 financial results.
 
     The planned transactions described previously are intended to result in the
achievement of several strategic objectives. The merger of the Hughes defense
business with Raytheon would create a stronger defense electronics company which
would be able to more effectively compete for new business in an industry where
significant consolidation is occurring. At the same time, the integration of
Delco Electronics and Delphi Automotive Systems would combine advanced
electronics capability with components and systems expertise, and would be
expected to result in reduced costs. Hughes Electronics would continue to hold
and operate the telecommunications and space business. This would allow Hughes
management to focus on this business segment and the capital infusion would
allow it to take advantage of growth opportunities in this very competitive
industry. The strategy of this business is to continue to expand its offerings
from being primarily a supplier of hardware to becoming a provider of hardware
and video, voice, and data services worldwide. This strategy requires
significant current and future investment in order to maintain and enhance the
segment's competitive position with respect to existing products and to take
advantage of the growth opportunities presented, as well as the formation of
strategic alliances to compete in the very competitive global marketplace.
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
     REVENUES. Hughes reported record revenues of $15,917.9 million in 1996, a
7.8% increase over 1995. Revenues in 1995 were $14,807.9 million, an increase of
5.0% compared with 1994 revenues of $14,099.4 million. The increase in 1996
revenues was largely the result of continued growth in the Telecommunications
and Space segment and increased revenues in the Aerospace and Defense Systems
segment, partially offset by lower Automotive Electronics revenues caused in
part by work stoppages at various GM production locations during the year. 1995
revenue growth was driven by the Automotive Electronics and Telecommunications
and Space segments. (Pro forma segment information is presented on page IV-56).
 
     Telecommunications and Space. Revenues in the Telecommunications and Space
segment were $4,114.9 million in 1996, a 33.1% increase over 1995, and $3,092.7
million in 1995, a 19.1% increase over 1994 revenues of $2,596.2 million. The
increases in both years were primarily due to continued expansion of the
DIRECTV(R) subscriber base, increased sales of commercial satellites and
cellular communications equipment, and increased video distribution revenues
from Galaxy(R) satellite transponders.
 
     Automotive Electronics. Revenues in the Automotive Electronics segment
decreased 3.8% in 1996 to $5,350.8 million from $5,561.3 million in 1995. The
decline was principally due to a decrease in GM vehicles produced in the United
States and Canada (excluding joint ventures) primarily related to the United and
Canadian Auto Workers' (UAW and CAW, respectively) strikes offset, in part, by
an increase in Hughes-supplied electronic content in these vehicles from $888
per vehicle to $906 per vehicle and an increase in international and non-GM-NAO
sales from $841 million in 1995 to $1,010 million in 1996. Revenues increased
$339.6 million, or 6.5%, in 1995 from $5,221.7 million in 1994. 1995 revenue
growth was attributed to an increase in Hughes-supplied electronic content in GM
vehicles produced in North America to $888 in 1995 from $857 in 1994, and an
increase in sales to international and non-GM-NAO customers to
 
                                      IV-48
<PAGE>   118
 
$841 million in 1995 from $672 million in 1994. Vehicle production remained
relatively unchanged between 1994 and 1995.
 
     Aerospace and Defense Systems. Aerospace and Defense Systems segment
revenues were $6,338.4 million in 1996, a 6.6% increase from 1995 revenues of
$5,945.4 million. The growth was primarily attributable to additional revenues
resulting from the December 1995 acquisition of Hughes Defense Communications
(formerly Magnavox Electronic Systems Company) and the build-up of newer
programs including Desktop V, Wide Area Augmentation System and Land Warrior.
1995 revenues decreased $78.2 million, or 1.3%, from 1994 revenues of $6,023.6
million. The decline was principally due to lower production rates on several
missile programs, partially offset by the additional revenues related to the
1995 acquisition of CAE-Link Corporation.
 
     Other Income. Included in revenues is other income of $173.8 million, $93.6
million, and $37.1 million for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. 1996 includes
the $120.3 million pre-tax gain from the sale of a 2.5% equity interest in
DIRECTV to AT&T. 1995 and 1994 included pre-tax charges of $40.0 million and
$35.0 million, respectively, for the estimated losses on disposition of certain
non-strategic business units. Also included in 1995 was $35.9 million of revenue
earned for providing services to GM.
 
     OPERATING PROFIT. Operating profit was $1,594.3 million in 1996, $1,667.3
million in 1995, and $1,630.4 million in 1994. Operating profit margins, as a
percentage of net sales, were 10.1%, 11.3%, and 11.6% in 1996, 1995, and 1994,
respectively. The decline in profitability in 1996 compared to 1995 was
primarily attributable to the lower GM production volumes related to the UAW and
CAW strikes and continued price reductions in the Automotive Electronics segment
offset in part, by the increased profitability in the Telecommunications and
Space segment. Also offsetting the 1996 decline in profitability were the
reduced operating losses at Hughes-Avicom International, Inc. Operating profit
improved in 1995 largely due to a continued emphasis on cost reduction efforts,
most notably in the Automotive Electronics and Aerospace and Defense Systems
segments, and the overall growth in revenues, partially offset by a planned
increase in operating expenses associated with DIRECTV. The 1995 operating
profit margin decline was attributable primarily to the DIRECTV operating
expense increase which more than offset the margin improvements in the two other
segments.
 
     Telecommunications and Space. Operating profit for 1996 was $259.8 million,
a 37.3% increase from $189.2 million reported in 1995. The 1996 increase was
largely a result of the revenue increases previously discussed and reduced
mobile telephony satellite development costs offset, in part, by operating
losses related to the start of service by the Company's DIRECTV business in
Latin America. Operating profit in 1995 decreased 30.2% from 1994 operating
profit of $271.0 million. The 1995 decline in operating profit was principally
due to increased operating expenses associated with the expansion of DIRECTV and
increased development costs on a geostationary satellite mobile telephony
product line. Operating profit margins were 6.5% in 1996, 6.2% in 1995, and
10.3% in 1994. After 1996, operating profit margins in the Telecommunications
and Space segment are expected to increase as DIRECTV's subscriber base grows.
 
     Automotive Electronics. In 1996, operating profit was $654.0 million
compared with $869.0 million in 1995. The decline was mostly due to the reduced
production volumes, continued price reductions resulting from competitive
pricing in connection with GM's global sourcing initiative, and the impact from
continued investment in international expansion. 1995 operating profit increased
$74.2 million, or 9.3%, as compared to 1994 operating profit of $794.8 million.
The improvement in profitability in 1995 was attributable not only to increased
revenues, but also to an aggressive cost reduction program.
 
     As the principal supplier of automotive electronics to General Motors'
North American Operations unit (GM-NAO), Hughes' sales of automotive electronics
will continue to be heavily dependent on General Motors production of vehicles
in North America, the level of Hughes-supplied electronic content per GM
vehicle, the price of such electronics, and the competitiveness of Hughes'
product offerings. In this regard, it is anticipated that competition through
GM's global purchasing process will negatively impact Hughes' sales to GM-NAO
and result in a decline in the portion of GM-NAO automotive electronics supplied
by Hughes. The segment's strategy is to aggressively reduce costs in order to
minimize the effect of continuing price reductions and to manage the loss of
GM-NAO market share by offering competitive
 
                                      IV-49
<PAGE>   119
 
products which increase electronic functionality through a focus on safety,
security, communications, and convenience. The segment will also seek to improve
its systems capability and cost competitiveness both internally and by
developing key design, manufacturing, and marketing alliances and other
relationships with mechanical and electrical automotive component suppliers.
 
     The international market for automotive electronic products is also highly
competitive. The segment has refined its strategy for this market to focus on
profitable growth as well as increased market share, and accordingly, will seek
to enhance the cost competitiveness of its international operations.
 
     The competitive environment described above is making it increasingly
difficult to maintain the level of operating profit margins realized in this
segment in the past. Beyond 1996, operating margins are expected to be lower
than recent historical levels as price and volume declines associated with GM's
global sourcing initiatives more than offset Hughes' ability to achieve cost
reductions. In response to the increased pressure on margins and to enhance
future competitiveness, management will take action to reduce the cost structure
of the business. As a result of the factors described above, the operating
margin is expected to decline further in 1997 to low double digits, and then
show modest improvement in 1998 and 1999.
 
     Aerospace and Defense Systems. Operating profit was $694.7 million in 1996
compared to $688.0 million in 1995 and $663.6 million in 1994. The operating
profit margin for 1996 declined to 11.0% from 11.7% in 1995 primarily due to a
continued shift from production programs to engineering and development
programs, and growth in information systems and services revenues. The operating
profit margin for 1995 increased to 11.7% from 11.0% largely due to a provision
taken in 1994 for certain air traffic control contracts, partly offset by
reduced revenues in 1995. Future operating profits could be adversely impacted
by further reductions in the U.S. defense budget.
 
     COSTS AND EXPENSES. Selling, general, and administrative expenses were
$1,505.6 million in 1996, $1,234.2 million in 1995, and $1,018.3 million in
1994. The increases were principally due to the continued expansion of DIRECTV,
both in the U.S. and internationally, and increased international sales
activities at Delco Electronics.
 
     The effective income tax rate was 34.5%, 36.8%, and 34.7% in 1996, 1995,
and 1994, respectively. The decrease in the effective income tax rate in 1996
was due primarily to the favorable resolution of certain tax contingencies while
the effective income tax rate in 1994 was favorably impacted by the recognition
of capital loss carryforward benefits.
 
     EARNINGS. Hughes' 1996 earnings were $1,151.2 million, or $2.88 per share
of GM Class H common stock, compared with 1995 earnings of $1,107.8 million, or
$2.77 per share, and 1994 earnings of $1,049.2 million, or $2.62 per share.
Earnings in 1994 included the unfavorable effect of an accounting change for
postemployment benefits. Excluding the accounting change, Hughes' earnings in
1994 would have been $1,079.6 million, or $2.70 per share.
 
     BACKLOG. The 1996 year-end backlog of $15,100 million increased from
$14,929 million at the end of 1995, primarily due to record backlog in the
Aerospace and Defense Systems segment. 1995 year-end backlog increased from the
$13,210 million at the end of 1994, primarily due to increased satellite orders
in the Telecommunications and Space segment. A portion of the backlog is subject
to appropriation decisions by the U.S. Government subsequent to award. In
addition, Hughes' contracts with the U.S. Government are subject to termination
by the Government either for its convenience or for default by Hughes. Sales to
the U.S. Government may be affected by changes in acquisition policies, budget
considerations, changing concepts in national defense, spending priorities, and
other factors that are outside of Hughes' control.
 
     SPECIAL PROVISION FOR RESTRUCTURING. In 1992, Hughes recorded a special
charge of $749.4 million (after-tax), for the restructuring of Hughes'
operations. The special charge comprehended a reduction of Hughes' worldwide
employment, a major facilities consolidation, and a reevaluation of certain
business lines that no longer met Hughes' strategic objectives. Restructuring
costs of $92.4 million, $208.8 million, and $228.3 million were charged against
the reserve during 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. In addition, in 1994, the
restructuring reserve was increased by $35.0 million, primarily due to changes
in the estimated loss on disposition of a subsidiary. The remaining liability at
December 31, 1996 of $42.0 million
 
                                      IV-50
<PAGE>   120
 
relates primarily to reserves for excess facilities and other site consolidation
costs. Approximately $40.7 million of this amount will require future cash
outflows. It is expected that these costs will be expended predominantly during
the next year.
 
     ACCOUNTING CHANGES. Effective January 1, 1996, Hughes adopted Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based
Compensation, and as permitted by this standard, will continue to apply the
recognition and measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board Opinion
No. 25 to its stock options. Hughes has calculated the proforma effects of
applying SFAS No. 123 and determined that such effects are not significant in
relation to reported net income and earnings per share.
 
     Effective January 1, 1996, Hughes also adopted SFAS No. 121, Accounting for
the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of.
This Statement establishes accounting standards for the impairment of long-lived
assets, certain identifiable intangibles, and goodwill related to those assets
to be held and used, and for long-lived assets and certain identifiable
intangibles to be disposed of. The adoption of this new accounting standard did
not have a material effect on Hughes' consolidated operating results or
financial position.
 
     Effective January 1, 1994, Hughes adopted SFAS No. 112, Employers'
Accounting for Postemployment Benefits. The Statement requires accrual of the
costs of benefits provided to former or inactive employees after employment, but
before retirement. The unfavorable cumulative effect of adopting this Standard
was $30.4 million, net of income taxes of $19.2 million, or $0.08 per share of
GM Class H common stock. The charge primarily related to extended disability
benefits which are accrued on a service-driven basis.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
     CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS. Cash and cash equivalents were $1,161.3 million
at December 31, 1996, an increase of $21.8 million from December 31, 1995.
Operating activities generated cash of $1,199.4 million as Hughes achieved
another year of record earnings. Additional cash was provided by proceeds from
the sale and leaseback of satellite transponders with General Motors Acceptance
Corporation, and proceeds from the sale of a minority interest in DIRECTV of
$137.5 million. The increases in cash were offset by the cash used to fund
capital expenditures, repay notes and loans payable and pay dividends to General
Motors.
 
     In 1995, cash and cash equivalents decreased $362.3 million to $1,139.5
million at December 31, 1995, from $1,501.8 million at December 31, 1994.
Operating activities generated cash of $986.2 million, however, cash used to
fund capital expenditures, pay dividends to General Motors, and acquire new
businesses more than offset the cash generated by operating activities.
 
     In the third quarter of 1996, Hughes reported that cash flows in 1997 and
beyond were expected to be negatively impacted by a change in the credit terms
between Hughes and GM-NAO for purchases of automotive electronics. With the
announcement of the planned transactions in January 1997 (see Note 18 to the
Hughes Consolidated Financial Statements), implementation of the change in
credit terms has been deferred pending the consummation of such planned
transactions.
 
     LIQUIDITY MEASUREMENT. As a measure of liquidity, the current ratio (ratio
of current assets to current liabilities) was 1.69 at December 31, 1996, 1.58 at
December 31, 1995, and 1.76 at December 31, 1994. The increase from 1995 to 1996
was principally due to the repayment of certain notes and loans payable. The
decrease from 1994 to 1995 was principally due to the decrease in cash described
above and increases in the notes and loans payable balance, primarily caused by
a loan related to an acquisition. (See Note 13 to the Hughes Consolidated
Financial Statements.)
 
     PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT. Property, net of accumulated depreciation,
increased $147.4 million in 1996 while telecommunications and other equipment,
net of accumulated depreciation, decreased $41.6 million, primarily due to the
sale and leaseback of GIIIR which more than offset additional expenditures
related to the Galaxy satellite fleet.
 
                                      IV-51
<PAGE>   121
 
     Expenditures for property and equipment were $652.3 million in 1996
compared with $545.7 million and $490.5 million in 1995 and 1994, respectively.
Management anticipates that capital expenditures in 1997 will increase
approximately $100 million over 1996 and will be financed primarily from cash
provided by operating activities.
 
     Telecommunications and other equipment expenditures were $187.9 million in
1996 compared with $274.6 million and $255.8 million in 1995 and 1994,
respectively. Management anticipates that telecommunications and other equipment
expenditures in 1997 will increase significantly compared with 1996 and will be
financed primarily from cash provided by operating activities.
 
     Telecommunications and Space. Capital expenditures, including expenditures
related to telecommunications and other equipment, increased to $449.8 million
in 1996 from $436.5 million in 1995 and $399.3 million in 1994. The 1996 capital
expenditures increase reflects additions to the Galaxy satellite fleet and
construction of the California Broadcast Center, an uplink facility that
supports Hughes' DIRECTV business in Latin America. The increase in 1995 was due
primarily to additions to the Galaxy satellite fleet.
 
     Automotive Electronics. Capital expenditures decreased to $196.0 million in
1996, compared with $264.7 million in 1995, and $166.4 million in 1994. The
decrease in the 1996 capital spending reflects the impact of delays in
engineering capital expenditures and the higher than normal level of
expenditures in 1995. The increased capital spending in 1995 reflects
expenditures for additional program requirements related to new product changes
associated with the 1996 model year combined with a decrease in tooling cost
recoveries.
 
     Aerospace and Defense Systems. Capital expenditures in the Aerospace and
Defense Systems segment for 1996, 1995, and 1994 were $171.1 million, $109.8
million, and $159.5 million, respectively. The 1996 increase relates to capital
expenditures to support expanding business requirements. The 1995 decrease was
due to the high level of expenditures in 1994 related to the consolidation of
facilities in an effort to increase the operational efficiencies of
manufacturing and engineering activities.
 
     DEBT AND CAPITALIZED LEASES. Long-term debt and capitalized leases were
$34.5 million at December 31, 1996, a decrease from $258.8 million at December
31, 1995, and $353.5 million at December 31, 1994, reflecting scheduled
principal repayments and the reclassification of certain amounts to current
liabilities. The ratio of long-term debt and capitalized leases to the total of
such debt and pro forma stockholder's equity decreased to 0.5% in 1996 from 4.4%
in 1995 and 6.6% in 1994.
 
     As discussed below, additional debt will be incurred in conjunction with
the PanAmSat merger. It is anticipated that a portion of this debt would be
repaid from cash expected to be received pursuant to the planned transactions
(see Note 18 to the Hughes Consolidated Financial Statements).
 
     OTHER BALANCE SHEET ITEMS. In evaluating both its pension and retiree
medical liabilities, Hughes recognizes the impact of changes in long-term
interest rates by adjusting the discount rate used in determining the actuarial
present values of the projected benefit obligations. In 1996, the weighted
average discount rate for Hughes' non-automotive pension obligations increased
from 7.25% to 7.5% and the weighted average discount rate for Hughes' other
postretirement benefits increased from 7.25% to 7.56%.
 
     ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES. In December 1996, Hughes announced that it
had reached an agreement to acquire the Marine Systems Division of Alliant
Techsystems, Inc. for $141.0 million in cash. The Marine Systems Division is a
leader in lightweight torpedo manufacturing and the design and manufacturing of
underwater surveillance, sonar and mine warfare systems. The acquisition was
completed in the first quarter of 1997.
 
     In September 1996, Hughes and PanAmSat Corporation entered into an
agreement to merge their respective satellite services operations into a new
publicly-held company. Hughes would contribute its Galaxy(R) satellite services
business in exchange for a 71.5% interest in the new company. Current PanAmSat
stockholders would receive a 28.5% interest in the new company and $1.5 billion
in cash. Such cash consideration and other funds required to consummate the
merger are expected to be funded by new debt financing totaling $1.725 billion.
This debt financing is expected to be provided by Hughes, which currently
intends to borrow such funds from General Motors.
 
                                      IV-52
<PAGE>   122
 
     For accounting purposes, this transaction would be treated as a partial
sale of the Galaxy business by Hughes and would result in a one-time,
nonrecurring gain. The amount of this gain depends on several variables, but is
expected to be between $400 and $600 million before tax. PanAmSat is a leading
provider of international satellite services. The transaction, which is
contingent upon receiving certain regulatory approvals, is expected to close
during the second quarter of 1997.
 
     In March 1996, Hughes sold a 2.5% equity interest in DIRECTV(R), a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Hughes, to AT&T for $137.5 million, with options to
increase their ownership interest under certain conditions. The sale resulted in
a $120.3 million pre-tax gain which is included in other income.
 
     In February 1995, Hughes completed the acquisition of CAE-Link Corporation,
an established supplier of simulation, training, and technical services,
primarily to the U.S. military and NASA, for $176.0 million. In December 1995,
Hughes acquired Magnavox Electronic Systems Company, a leading supplier of
military tactical communications, electronic warfare, and command and control
systems, for $382.4 million.
 
     During 1995, Hughes divested several non-strategic enterprises resulting in
aggregate proceeds of approximately $127.2 million and a net gain of
approximately $21.9 million. Also in 1995, Hughes recorded a $40.0 million
charge for the estimated loss on disposition of a business unit and completed
the divestiture of Hughes LAN Systems, for which a pre-tax charge of $35.0
million was taken in 1994.
 
     DIVIDEND POLICY. As discussed in Note 7 to the Hughes Consolidated
Financial Statements, it is GM's current policy to pay aggregate annual cash
dividends on the GM Class H common stock approximately equal to 35% of the
Available Separate Consolidated Net Income of Hughes for the prior year. In
January 1997, the Board of Directors of GM increased the quarterly dividend on
GM Class H common stock from $0.24 per share to $0.25 per share. It is
anticipated that if the previously described Hughes transactions are
consummated, the General Motors Board of Directors will adopt a dividend policy
relating to the new Class H common stock which the Board deems to be appropriate
in light of the capital needs and growth opportunities of the Hughes
telecommunications and space business and generally commensurate with that of
other companies in the telecommunications and space business having similar
capital needs and growth opportunities.
 
     SECURITY RATINGS. Hughes' security ratings are tied to the security ratings
of General Motors.
 
     In October 1996, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services, a division of
McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. (S&P), revised its outlook on Hughes from stable to
developing as a result of the uncertainty with respect to GM's investment
strategy related to Hughes. S&P indicated that the developing outlook reflects
the possibility that if a significant change in the relationship between GM and
Hughes were to occur, the credit quality of Hughes could be either favorably or
adversely affected, depending upon the nature of the transaction pursued.
 
     In November, 1996 and January 1997, S&P affirmed its long-term debt rating
of Hughes at A-. The S&P A- credit rating is the seventh highest within the 10
investment grade ratings available from S&P for long-term debt, based on a
strong capability to pay interest and repay principal, although somewhat more
susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic
conditions than debt in higher rated categories. Additionally, S&P also affirmed
its A.2 rating on Hughes' commercial paper. S&P's ratings outlook for Hughes
remains developing.
 
     In September 1996, Moody's Investors Service (Moody's) confirmed the
long-term credit rating of Hughes at A.3, seventh highest within the 10
investment grade ratings available from Moody's for long-term debt. Moody's
defines A.3 bonds as having "upper-medium grade" quality. Moody's rating for
Hughes' commercial paper remained unchanged at P-2. The rating indicates that
the issuer has a strong ability for repayment relative to other issuers.
 
     Following GM's and Hughes' January 1997 announcement with respect to the
Hughes business segments (See Note 18 to the Hughes Consolidated Financial
Statements), both S&P and Moody's reaffirmed their current ratings and outlook
for Hughes' securities. Moody's, however, put Hughes' ratings on review for
possible downgrade.
 
                                      IV-53
<PAGE>   123
 
     Debt ratings by the various rating agencies reflect each agency's opinion
of the ability of issuers to repay debt obligations punctually. Lower ratings
generally result in higher borrowing costs. A security rating is not a
recommendation to buy, sell, or hold securities and may be subject to revision
or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization. Each rating
should be evaluated independently of any other rating.
 
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
 
     The Hughes Consolidated Financial Statements reflect the application of
purchase accounting adjustments as described in Note 1 to the Hughes
Consolidated Financial Statements. However, as provided in GM's Certificate of
Incorporation, the earnings attributable to GM Class H common stock for purposes
of determining the amount available for the payment of dividends on GM Class H
common stock specifically excludes such adjustments. More specifically,
amortization and disposal of these intangible assets associated with GM's
purchase of Hughes Aircraft Company amounted to $122.3 million in 1996, $159.5
million in 1995 and $123.8 million in 1994. The 1995 amount included a $36.1
million charge, included in other income, for the write-off of such purchase
accounting adjustments related to the disposition of certain non-strategic
business units. Such amounts were excluded from the earnings available for the
payment of dividends on GM Class H common stock and were charged against the
earnings available for the payment of dividends on GM's $1 2/3 par value stock.
Unamortized purchase accounting adjustments associated with GM's purchase of
Hughes Aircraft Company were $2,723.5 million, $2,845.8 million, and $3,005.3
million at December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.
 
     In order to provide additional analytical data to the users of Hughes'
financial information, supplemental data in the form of unaudited summary pro
forma financial data are provided. Consistent with the basis on which earnings
of Hughes available for the payment of dividends on the GM Class H common stock
is determined, the pro forma data exclude purchase accounting adjustments
related to General Motors' acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company. Included in
the supplemental data are certain financial ratios which provide measures of
financial returns excluding the impact of purchase accounting adjustments. The
pro forma data are not presented as a measure of GM's total return on its
investment in Hughes.
 
                                      IV-54
<PAGE>   124
 
                 HUGHES ELECTRONIC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                  UNAUDITED SUMMARY PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA*
 
              PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                          -----------------------------------
                                            1996         1995         1994
                                            ----         ----         ----
                                                 (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS
                                               EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                       <C>          <C>          <C>
Total Revenues..........................  $15,917.9    $14,807.9    $14,099.4
Total Costs and Expenses................   14,161.0     13,054.5     12,447.0
                                          ---------    ---------    ---------
Income before Income Taxes..............    1,756.9      1,753.4      1,652.4
Income taxes............................      605.7        645.6        572.8
                                          ---------    ---------    ---------
Income before cumulative effect of
  accounting change.....................    1,151.2      1,107.8      1,079.6
Cumulative effect of accounting
  change................................         --           --        (30.4)
                                          ---------    ---------    ---------
Earnings Used for Computation of
  Available Separate Consolidated Net
  Income................................  $ 1,151.2    $ 1,107.8    $ 1,049.2
                                          =========    =========    =========
Earnings Attributable to General Motors
  Class H Common Stock on a Per Share
  Basis
  Before cumulative effect of accounting
     change.............................      $2.88        $2.77        $2.70
  Cumulative effect of accounting
     change.............................         --           --        (0.08)
                                              -----        -----        -----
  Net earnings attributable to General
     Motors Class H Common Stock........      $2.88        $2.77        $2.62
                                              =====        =====        =====
</TABLE>
 
                 PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               DECEMBER 31,
                                          ----------------------
                                            1996         1995
                                            ----         ----
                                          (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                       <C>          <C>
ASSETS
Total Current Assets....................  $ 7,079.0    $ 6,810.8
Property -- Net.........................    2,886.6      2,739.2
Telecommunications and Other
  Equipment -- Net......................    1,133.5      1,175.1
Intangible Assets, Investments, and
  Other Assets -- Net...................    2,657.5      2,403.5
                                          ---------    ---------
     Total Assets.......................  $13,756.6    $13,128.6
                                          =========    =========
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
 
Total Current Liabilities...............  $ 4,199.6    $ 4,308.8
Long-Term Debt and Capitalized Leases...       34.5        258.8
Postretirement Benefits Other Than
  Pensions, Other Liabilities, and
  Deferred Credits......................    3,066.1      2,881.1
     Total Stockholder's Equity**.......    6,456.4      5,679.9
                                          ---------    ---------
     Total Liabilities and Stockholder's
      Equity**..........................  $13,756.6    $13,128.6
                                          =========    =========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
 *  The summary excludes purchase accounting adjustments related to GM's
    acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company.
 
**  General Motors' equity in its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hughes. Holders of GM
    Class H common stock have no direct rights in the equity or assets of
    Hughes, but rather have rights in the equity and assets of GM (which
    includes 100% of the stock of Hughes).
 
                                      IV-55
<PAGE>   125
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            UNAUDITED SUMMARY PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA* -- CONTINUED
 
                        PRO FORMA SELECTED SEGMENT DATA
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                --------------------------------
                                                                  1996        1995        1994
                                                                  ----        ----        ----
                                                                     (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>         <C>         <C>
TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND SPACE
Revenues....................................................    $4,114.9    $3,092.7    $2,596.2
Revenues as a percentage of Hughes Revenues.................        25.9%       20.9%       18.4%
Net Sales...................................................    $3,992.2    $3,075.8    $2,633.8
Operating Profit(1).........................................       259.8       189.2       271.0
Operating Profit Margin(2)..................................         6.5%        6.2%       10.3%
Identifiable Assets at Year-End.............................    $4,406.7    $3,820.0    $3,217.8
Depreciation and Amortization...............................       194.8       178.3       140.8
Capital Expenditures(3).....................................       449.8       436.5       399.3
AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRONICS
Revenues....................................................    $5,350.8    $5,561.3    $5,221.7
Revenues as a percentage of Hughes Revenues.................        33.6%       37.6%       37.0%
Net Sales...................................................    $5,311.3    $5,479.7    $5,170.6
Operating Profit(1).........................................       654.0       869.0       794.8
Operating Profit Margin(2)..................................        12.3%       15.9%       15.4%
Identifiable Assets at Year-End.............................    $3,394.9    $3,267.4    $3,429.8
Depreciation and Amortization...............................       195.9       151.4       142.2
Capital Expenditures........................................       196.0       264.7       166.4
AEROSPACE AND DEFENSE SYSTEMS
Revenues....................................................    $6,338.4    $5,945.4    $6,023.6
Revenues as a percentage of Hughes Revenues.................        39.8%       40.2%       42.7%
Net Sales...................................................    $6,331.5    $5,899.7    $6,007.3
Operating Profit(1).........................................       694.7       688.0       663.6
Operating Profit Margin(2)..................................        11.0%       11.7%       11.0%
Identifiable Assets at Year-End.............................    $5,296.9    $5,369.7    $4,262.4
Depreciation and Amortization...............................       157.6       132.0       158.5
Capital Expenditures........................................       171.1       109.8       159.5
CORPORATE AND OTHER
Operating Loss(1)...........................................    $  (14.2)   $  (78.9)   $  (99.0)
Identifiable Assets at Year-End.............................       658.1       671.5       935.2
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 *  The summary excludes purchase accounting adjustments related to GM's
    acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company.
 
Certain amounts for 1995 have been reclassified to conform with 1996
  classifications.
 
(1) Net Sales less Total Costs and Expenses other than Interest Expense.
 
(2) Operating Profit as a percentage of Net Sales.
 
(3) Includes expenditures related to telecommunications and other equipment
    amounting to $187.9 million, $274.6 million, and $255.8 million,
    respectively.
 
                                      IV-56
<PAGE>   126
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            UNAUDITED SUMMARY PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA* -- CONCLUDED
 
                       PRO FORMA SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                          ----------------------------------------------
                                           1996      1995      1994      1993      1992
                                           ----      ----      ----      ----      ----
                                          (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
Operating profit (loss).................  $1,594    $1,667    $1,630    $1,460    $ (194)
Income (Loss) before income taxes and
  cumulative effect of accounting
  changes...............................  $1,757    $1,753    $1,652    $1,494    $ (127)
Earnings (Loss) used for computation of
  available separate consolidated net
  income (loss)**.......................  $1,151    $1,108    $1,049    $  922    $ (922)
Average number of GM Class H dividend
  base shares (1).......................   399.9     399.9     399.9     399.9     399.9
Stockholder's equity**..................  $6,456    $5,680    $4,971    $4,199    $3,562
Dividends per share of GM Class H common
  stock.................................  $ 0.96    $ 0.92    $ 0.80    $ 0.72    $ 0.72
Working capital.........................  $2,879    $2,502    $2,696    $2,165    $1,692
Operating profit (loss) as a percent of
  net sales.............................    10.1%     11.3%     11.6%     10.9%     (1.6)%
Pre-tax income (loss) as a percent of
  net sales.............................    11.2%     11.9%     11.8%     11.1%     (1.0)%
Net income (loss) as a percent of net
  sales**...............................     7.3%      7.5%      7.5%      6.9%     (7.6)%
Return on equity**(2)...................    19.0%     20.8%     22.9%     23.7%    (21.9)%
Income (Loss) before interest and taxes
  as a percent of capitalization (3)....    27.0%     29.8%     32.9%     33.1%     (1.3)%
Pre-tax return on total assets (4)......    13.1%     14.0%     14.5%     13.6%     (1.2)%
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
 *  The summary excludes purchase accounting adjustments related to GM's
    acquisition of Hughes Aircraft Company.
 
**  Includes unfavorable cumulative effect of accounting changes of $30.4
    million in 1994 and $872.1 million in 1992.
 
(1) Class H dividend base shares is used in calculating earnings attributable to
    GM Class H common stock on a per share basis. This is not the same as the
    average number of GM Class H shares outstanding, which was 98.4 million in
    1996.
 
(2) Earnings (Loss) used for Computation of Available Separate Consolidated Net
    Income (Loss) divided by average stockholder's equity (General Motors'
    equity in its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hughes). Holders of GM Class H common
    stock have no direct rights in the equity or assets of Hughes, but rather
    have rights in the equity and assets of GM (which includes 100% of the stock
    of Hughes).
 
(3) Income (Loss) before interest and income taxes divided by average
    stockholder's equity plus average total debt.
 
(4) Income (Loss) before Income Taxes divided by average Total Assets.
 
                                    *******
 
                                      IV-57

<PAGE>   1
 
                                                                      EXHIBIT 11
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                       COMPUTATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE
                         ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON STOCKS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
                                            ---------------------------------
                                             $1 2/3
                                            PAR VALUE     CLASS E     CLASS H
                                             COMMON       COMMON      COMMON
                                              STOCK        STOCK       STOCK
                                            ---------     -------     -------
                                               (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT
                                                   PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                         <C>           <C>         <C>
Income from continuing operations.......     $4,670        $  --       $ 283
Income (loss) from discontinued
  operations............................         (5)          15          --
                                             ------        ------      -----
  Net income............................      4,665           15         283
Dividends on preference stocks..........         81           --          --
                                             ------        ------      -----
  Earnings on common stocks.............      4,584           15         283
Dividends on common stocks..............      1,209          145          94
                                             ------        ------      -----
  Net earnings retained (loss
     accumulated).......................     $3,375        $(130)      $ 189
                                             ======        ======      =====
Memo:
Net earnings retained from continuing
  operations............................     $3,380        $  --       $ 189
                                             ======        ======      =====
Loss accumulated from discontinued
  operations............................     $   (5)       $(130)      $  --
                                             ======        ======      =====
Weighted average shares outstanding (in
  millions).............................        756          470          98
                                              =====         ====         ===
Per Share Data
Net earnings retained per share from
  continuing operations.................     $ 4.47        $  --       $1.92
Loss accumulated per share from
  discontinued operations...............      (0.01)       (0.26)         --
Cash dividends per share................       1.60         0.30        0.96
                                             ------        ------      -----
  Net earnings per share................     $ 6.06        $0.04       $2.88
                                             ======        ======      =====
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
Note: The difference between fully diluted and primary earnings per share is
      immaterial.
 
                                      IV-7
<PAGE>   2
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                       COMPUTATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE
                   ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON STOCKS -- CONTINUED
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
                                                                ---------------------------------
                                                                 $1 2/3
                                                                PAR VALUE     CLASS E     CLASS H
                                                                 COMMON       COMMON      COMMON
                                                                  STOCK        STOCK       STOCK
                                                                ---------     -------     -------
                                                                   (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT
                                                                       PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                             <C>           <C>         <C>
Income from continuing operations before cumulative effect
  of accounting change......................................     $5,768        $  --       $ 265
Income from discontinued operations.........................        105          795          --
Cumulative effect of accounting change......................        (52)          --          --
                                                                 ------        -----       -----
  Net income................................................      5,821          795         265
Preference shares tender offer premium......................        153           --          --
Dividends on preference stocks..............................        211           --          --
                                                                 ------        -----       -----
  Earnings on common stocks.................................      5,457          795         265
Dividends on common stocks..................................        824          205          88
                                                                 ------        -----       -----
  Net earnings retained.....................................     $4,633        $ 590       $ 177
                                                                 ======        =====       =====
Memo:
Net earnings retained from continuing operations............     $4,528        $  --       $ 177
                                                                 ======        =====       =====
Income retained from discontinued operations................     $  105        $ 590       $  --
                                                                 ======        =====       =====
Weighted average shares outstanding (in millions)...........        750          405          96
                                                                  =====         ====         ===
Per Share Data
Net earnings retained per share from continuing operations
  before cumulative effect of accounting change.............     $ 6.04        $  --       $1.85
Income retained per share from discontinued operations......       0.14         1.44          --
Cumulative effect of accounting change......................      (0.07)          --          --
Cash dividends per share....................................       1.10         0.52        0.92
                                                                 ------        -----       -----
  Net earnings per share....................................     $ 7.21        $1.96       $2.77
                                                                 ======        =====       =====
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
Note: The difference between fully diluted and primary earnings per share is
      immaterial.
 
                                      IV-8
<PAGE>   3
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                       COMPUTATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE
                   ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON STOCKS -- CONCLUDED
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994
                                                                ---------------------------------
                                                                 $1 2/3
                                                                PAR VALUE     CLASS E     CLASS H
                                                                 COMMON       COMMON      COMMON
                                                                  STOCK        STOCK       STOCK
                                                                ---------     -------     -------
                                                                   (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS EXCEPT
                                                                       PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S>                                                             <C>           <C>         <C>
Income from continuing operations before cumulative effect
  of accounting change......................................     $4,617        $  --       $  249
Income from discontinued operations.........................        349          444           --
Cumulative effect of accounting change......................       (751)          --           (7)
                                                                 ------        -----       ------
  Net income................................................      4,215          444          242
Dividends on preference stocks..............................        321           --           --
                                                                 ------        -----       ------
  Earnings on common stocks.................................      3,894          444          242
Dividends on common stocks..................................        593          125           74
                                                                 ------        -----       ------
  Net earnings retained.....................................     $3,301        $ 319       $  168
                                                                 ======        =====       ======
Memo:
Net earnings retained from continuing operations............     $2,952        $  --       $  168
                                                                 ======        =====       ======
Income retained from discontinued operations................     $  349        $ 319       $   --
                                                                 ======        =====       ======
Weighted average shares outstanding (in millions)...........        741          260           92
                                                                  =====         ====          ===
Per Share Data
Net earnings retained per share from continuing operations
  before cumulative effect of accounting change.............     $ 4.94        $  --       $ 1.90
Income retained per share from discontinued operations......       0.46         1.23           --
Cumulative effect of accounting change......................      (1.05)          --        (0.08)
Cash dividends per share....................................       0.80         0.48         0.80
                                                                 ------        -----       ------
  Net earnings per share....................................     $ 5.15        $1.71       $ 2.62
                                                                 ======        =====       ======
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
Note: The difference between fully diluted and primary earnings per share is
      immaterial.
 
                                      IV-9

<PAGE>   1
 
                                                                      EXHIBIT 12
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
               COMPUTATION OF RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                ---------------------------------
                                                                 1996         1995         1994
                                                                 ----         ----         ----
                                                                      (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                             <C>          <C>          <C>
Income from continuing operations before cumulative effect
  of accounting changes.....................................    $ 4,953      $ 6,033      $ 4,866
U.S., foreign, and other income taxes.......................      1,723        2,316        2,232
Equity in income of associates..............................       (107)        (216)         (48)
Cash dividends received from associates.....................         48           16           10
Amortization of capitalized interest........................         54           51           50
                                                                -------      -------      -------
Income for continuing operations before cumulative effect of
  accounting changes, income taxes, undistributed income of
  associates, and amortization of capitalized interest......      6,671        8,200        7,110
                                                                -------      -------      -------
Fixed charges included in income from continuing operations
  Interest and related charges on debt......................      5,673        5,557        4,984
  Portion of rentals deemed to be interest..................        287          256          288
                                                                -------      -------      -------
     Total fixed charges included in income from continuing
       operations...........................................      5,960      5,813..        5,272
                                                                -------      -------      -------
Earnings available for fixed charges........................    $12,641      $14,013      $12,382
                                                                =======      =======      =======
Fixed charges
  Fixed charges included in income from continuing
     operations.............................................    $ 5,960      $ 5,813      $ 5,272
  Interest capitalized in the period........................         49           50           33
                                                                -------      -------      -------
     Total fixed charges....................................    $ 6,010      $5,863..     $ 5,305
                                                                =======      =======      =======
Ratios of earnings to fixed charges.........................       2.10         2.39         2.33
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-10

<PAGE>   1
 
                                                                      EXHIBIT 21
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                         SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT
                            AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
     Subsidiary companies of the Registrant are listed below. With respect to
the companies named, all voting securities are owned directly or indirectly by
the Registrant, except where otherwise indicated.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    STATE OR
                                                                SOVEREIGN POWER
                     NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                         OF INCORPORATION
                     ------------------                         ----------------
<S>                                                             <C>
Subsidiaries included in the Registrant's consolidated
  financial statements
AC Battery Corporation......................................    Michigan
Adam Opel Aktiengesellschaft................................    Germany
  Asset Leasing GmbH (95% owned by subsidiary)..............    Germany
  Autohaus am Nordring GmbH, Berlin.........................    Germany
  Carus Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH & Co.
     Object Kuno 65 KG (94% owned by subsidiary)............    Germany
  Carus Grundstucks-Vermietungsgesellschaft mbH & Co.
     Object Leo 40 KG (94% owned by subsidiary).............    Germany
  GM Europe GmbH (100% owned by subsidiary).................    Germany
  General Motors GmbH & Co. OHG (99% owned by subsidiary)...    Germany
  Opel-Automobilwerk Eisenach-PKW GmbH (80% owned by
     subsidiary)............................................    Germany
  Opel China GmbH...........................................    France
  Opel Eisenach GmbH........................................    Germany
  Opel Hungary Automobile Production Ltd....................    Hungary
  Opel Polska Sp. z oo......................................    Poland
  Opel Turkiye Limited Sirketi (99.5% owned by subsidiary
     and 0.5% owned by General Motors Overseas
     Corporation)...........................................    Turkey
  Saginaw Deutschland GmbH..................................    Germany
Arabian Battery Holding Company.............................    Delaware
Arabian Financing Company...................................    Delaware
Argonaut Holdings, Inc. ....................................    Delaware
Auto Cable Industries (Pty) Limited (51% owned by General
  Motors Corporation).......................................    South Africa
Auto Lease Payment Corporation..............................    Cayman Islands
  North American New Cars, Inc..............................    Delaware
Automotive Battery Manufacturing, Inc. .....................    Delaware
Battery Technology Services, Inc. ..........................    Delaware
Chevrolet Sociedad Anonima de Ahorro para Fines
  Determinados..............................................    Argentina
Convesco Vehicle Sales GmbH (60% owned by General Motors
  Corporation)..............................................    Federal Republic
                                                                of Germany
Controladora General Motors, S.A. de C.V. ..................    Mexico
  Centro Tecnico Herramental, S.A. de C.V. (80% owned by
     subsidiary)............................................    Mexico
  Componentes Para Automotores, S.A. de C.V. ...............    Mexico
     Delphi Alambrados Automotrices, S.A. de C.V. ..........    Mexico
     Delphi Cableados, S.A. de C.V. ........................    Mexico
     Delphi Componentes Mecanicos de Matamoros, S.A. de
      C.V. .................................................    Mexico
     Delphi Ensamble de Cables y Componentes, S.A. de
      C.V. .................................................    Mexico
     Productos Delco de Chihuahua, S.A. de C.V. ............    Mexico
     Sistemas Electricos y Conmutadores, S.A. de C.V. ......    Mexico
  General Motors de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. ...................    Mexico
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-11
<PAGE>   2
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    STATE OR
                                                                SOVEREIGN POWER
                     NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                         OF INCORPORATION
                     ------------------                         ----------------
<S>                                                             <C>
  Sistemas Para Automotores de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. ........    Mexico
     Delphi Automotive Systems, S.A. de C.V. ...............    Mexico
Delphi Automotive Systems do Brasil Ltda. ..................    Brazil
Delphi Automotive Systems, Inc. ............................    Delaware
  Packard Electric Hebi Co., Limited (60% owned by
     subsidiary)............................................    China
Delphi Automotive Systems China, Inc. ......................    Delaware
  Delphi Packard Electric (Guangzhou) Company, Ltd. ........    China
  Packard Electric Bai Cheng Co., Limited (58% owned by
     subsidiary)............................................    China
  Shanghai Delco International Battery Company, Ltd. .......    China
Delphi Automotive Systems Deutschland GmbH..................    Germany
  Delphi Packard Deutschland GmbH (18.5% owned by subsidiary
     and 81.5% by General Motors Corporation)...............    Germany
  Reinshagen GmbH...........................................    Germany
  Unterstuetzungsgesellschaft der Kabelwerke Reinshagen
     GmbH...................................................    West Germany
Delphi Automotive Systems Overseas Corporation..............    Delaware
Delphi Automotive Systems Poland Sp. zo.o. .................    Poland
Delphi Automotive Systems Singapore PTE LTD.................    Singapore
Delphi Calsonic Compressors, S.A.S. ........................    France
Delphi Energy and Engine Management Systems (M) Sdn Bhd.....    Malaysia
Delphi France Automotive Systems (50.4% owned by General
  Motors Corporation and 49.6% owned by Adam Opel
  Aktiengesellschaft).......................................    France
     Delphi Italia Automotive Systems S.r.1. (99% owned by
      subsidiary and 1% owned by Opel France S.A.)..........    Italy
     Delphi Italia Service Center S.r.1. (98% owned by
      subsidiary and 2% owned by Opel France S.A.)..........    Italy
     DRB s.a./n.v. (51% owned by subsidiary)................    France
     Diavia S.r.1. (owned by subsidiary)....................    Italy
       Aura Srl (owned by subsidiary).......................    Italy
     Opel France S.A.(99% owned by subsidiary)..............    France
     Texton S.A. ...........................................    France
       ENCI S.A.R.L. (99.8% owned by subsidiary)............    France
       Texton P.L.C. (97.5% owned by subsidiary)............    United Kingdom
Delphi Harrison -- Calsonic (84% owned by General Motors
  Corporation...............................................    France
Delphi L'EM Argentina S.A. (51% owned by General Motors
  Corporation and 49% owned by L'Equipe Monteur)............    Argentina
Delphi Packard Austria Ges. m.b.H. .........................    Austria
  Packard Electric Vas kft (owned by subsidiary)............    Hungary
  Reinshagen Tournai S.A. (99% owned by subsidiary and 1%
     owned by Delphi Packard Austria Ges. m.b.H.)...........    Belgium
Delphi Packard Electric Sielin Argentina S.A. ..............    Argentina
Delphi Packard Electric Systems (M) Sdn Bhd.................    Malaysia
Delphi Packard Romania S.r.1. ..............................    Romania
Delphi Rimir, S.A. de C.V. .................................    Mexico
Delphi Steering (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd..........................    Malaysia
Delphi Unicables, S.A. .....................................    Spain
  Delphi Asientos, S.A. ....................................    Spain
  Delphi Cetasa, S.L. ......................................    Spain
  Delphi Cisa S.A. .........................................    Spain
  Delphi Colvegasa, S.A. ...................................    Spain
Electro-Motive Maintenance Operations Pty Ltd...............    Australia
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-12
<PAGE>   3
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    STATE OR
                                                                SOVEREIGN POWER
                     NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                         OF INCORPORATION
                     ------------------                         ----------------
<S>                                                             <C>
Exhaust Systems Corporation.................................    Delaware
GM Allison Japan Limited....................................    Japan
GM Auto Receivables Co. ....................................    Delaware
GMC Truck Motors Development Corporation....................    Delaware
GM-DI Leasing Corporation...................................    Delaware
GMLG Ltd. ..................................................    Delaware
  MLS USA, Inc. ............................................    Delaware
GM Ovonic L.L.C. (60% owned by General Motors
  Corporation)..............................................    Michigan
General Motors Acceptance Corporation.......................    New York
  Banque Opel (98% owned by subsidiary).....................    France
  Capital Auto Receivables, Inc. ...........................    Delaware
  General Acceptance (Thailand) Ltd.* (75% owned by General
     Motors Acceptance Corporation and 25% owned by Phra
     Nakorn Automobile Ltd.)................................    Thailand
GMAC, Australia (Finance) Limited...........................    Australia
GMAC Comercial Automotriz Chile S.A. .......................    Chile
GMAC Commercial Corporation.................................    Delaware
GMAC del Ecuador S.A........................................    Ecuador
GMAC Holding S.A. de C.V. (99.95% owned by subsidiary and
  .05% owned by various GMAC subsidiaries)..................    Mexico
  GMAC Arrendadora S.A. de C. V. ...........................    Mexico
  General Motors Acceptance Corporation, S.A. de C.V. ......    Mexico
  Servicios GMAC S.A. de C.V. ..............................    Mexico
GMAC International Finance, B.V. (80% owned by GMAC and 20%
  owned by GMAC Commercial Corporation).....................    Netherlands
GMAC Italia Leasing S.p.A. .................................    Italy
GMAC Leasing Corporation....................................    Delaware
  Patlan Corporation........................................    Delaware
GMAC Mortgage Group, Inc....................................    Michigan
  GMAC Commercial Mortgage Corporation......................    California
  GMAC Mortgage Corporation.................................    Pennsylvania
  GMAC Mortgage Holdings, Inc. .............................    Delaware
  GMAC Mortgage Securities II, Inc. ........................    Michigan
  GMAC RF, INC. ............................................    Michigan
  Residential Money Centers, Inc. ..........................    Delaware
  Risk Monitors, Inc. ......................................    Pennsylvania
GMAC Sverige AB.............................................    Sweden
General Motors Acceptance Corporation, Australia............    Delaware
  Holden National Leasing Limited (74.9% owned by
     subsidiary)............................................    Australia
General Motors Acceptance Corporation of Canada, Limited....    Canada
  Canadian Securitized Auto Receivables Corporation.........    Canada
  GMAC Leaseco Limited......................................    Canada
General Motors Acceptance Corporation, Colombia S.A. .......    Delaware
General Motors Acceptance Corporation, Continental..........    Delaware
  GM Finance HB (90.5% owned by subsidiary).................    Sweden
General Motors Acceptance Corporation Hungary Financial
  Services Limited Liability Company (90% owned by GMAC and
  10% owned by Opel Hungary Rt).............................    Hungary
General Motors Acceptance Corporation International.........    Delaware
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
 
* Joint Venture Partnership
 
                                      IV-13
<PAGE>   4
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    STATE OR
                                                                SOVEREIGN POWER
                     NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                         OF INCORPORATION
                     ------------------                         ----------------
<S>                                                             <C>
General Motors Acceptance Corporation Italia S.p.A. ........    Italy
General Motors Acceptance Corporation Nederland N.V. .......    Netherlands
  GMAC Espana, S.A. de Financiacion.........................    Spain
General Motors Acceptance Corporation, North America........    Delaware
General Motors Acceptance Corporation (N.Z.) Limited........    New Zealand
General Motors Acceptance Corporation de Portugal-Servicos
  Financeiros, S.A. (99% owned by subsidiary and 1% owned by
  General Motors Acceptance Corporation International)......    Portugal
General Motors Acceptance Corporation, South America........    Delaware
  General Motors Acceptance Corporation del Ecuador S.A.
     GMAC-Management (Holding)..............................    Ecuador
  General Motors Acceptance Corporation de Venezuela,
     C.A. ..................................................    Venezuela
General Motors Acceptance Corporation Suisse S.A. ..........    Switzerland
General Motors Austria Beteiligungsgesellschaft m.b.H. .....    Austria
  OPEL Leasinggesellschaft mbH (74% owned by subsidiary)....    Austria
Lease Auto Receivables, Inc. ...............................    Delaware
Motors Insurance Corporation................................    New York
  Cadmic Agency Corporation.................................    Delaware
  Car Care Plan (Holdings) Limited (99.9% owned by
     subsidiary and 0.1% owned by GMOC Administrative
     Services Corporation)..................................    England
     Car Care Plan (Securities Division) Limited (99.9%
      owned by Car Care Plan (Holdings) Limited and 0.1%
      owned by GMOC Administrative Services Corporation)....    England
  CIM Insurance Corporation.................................    New York
  GM Motor Club, Inc. ......................................    North Carolina
  MIC General Insurance Corporation.........................    Michigan
  MIC Life Insurance Corporation............................    Delaware
  MIC Property and Casualty Insurance Corporation...........    Michigan
  MIC Re Corp. .............................................    Delaware
  MIC Services Corporation..................................    Delaware
  Motors Insurance Company Limited..........................    England
  Motors Insurance Purchasing Group, Inc. ..................    Michigan
  Motors Mechanical Reinsurance Company, Limited............    Barbados
  NAVCO Corp. ..............................................    Missouri
  Trinity General Agency, Inc. .............................    Texas
Opel Bank GmbH..............................................    Germany
  Opel Leasing GmbH & Co. OHG* (partnership between Opel
     Bank GmbH and Opel Leasing Verwaltungs GmbH)...........    Germany
  Opel Leasing Verwaltungs GmbH (60% owned by Opel Bank
     GmbH, 20% owned by General Motors Acceptance
     Corporation, and 20% owned by Adam Opel
     Aktiengesellschaft)....................................    Germany
  Opel Bank Hungary Rf......................................    Hungary
  Polbank, S.A. (68.02% owned by General Motors Acceptance
     Corporation)...........................................    Poland
  P.T. GMAC Lippo Finance* (80% owned by General Motors
     Acceptance Corporation)................................    Indonesia
  Wholesale Auto Receivables Corporation....................    Delaware
General Motors de Argentina S.A. (99% owned by General 
  Motors Corporation).......................................    Argentina
General Motors Asia, Inc. ..................................    Delaware
  General Motors (Thailand) Ltd. ...........................    Thailand
General Motors Asian and Pacific Operations.................    Singapore
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-14
<PAGE>   5
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    STATE OR
                                                                SOVEREIGN POWER
                     NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                         OF INCORPORATION
                     ------------------                         ----------------
<S>                                                             <C>
General Motors Automobiles Philippines, Inc. ...............    Philippines
General Motors do Brasil Ltda. .............................    Brazil
  Brazauto Trading (Cayman) Limited.........................    Cayman Islands
  GM Factoring Sociedade de Fomento Comercial Ltda. ........    Brazil
General Motors of Canada Limited............................    Canada
General Motors Chile S.A., Industria Automotriz.............    Chile
General Motors China (Components), Inc. ....................    Delaware
  Beijing Wanyuan GM Automotive Electronic Control Co., Ltd.
     (51% owned by subsidiary)..............................    People's
                                                                Republic of
                                                                China
  Hubei Delphi Automotive Generator Co., Ltd. (51% owned by
     subsidiary)............................................    China
  Saginaw Norinco Lingyun Drive Shaft Co., Ltd. (60% owned
     by subsidiary).........................................    China
  Zhejiang Delphi Asia-Pacific Brake Co. Ltd. (60% owned by
     subsidiary)............................................    China
General Motors China, Inc. .................................    Delaware
General Motors Colmotores, S.A. (82.6% owned by General 
  Motors Corporation).......................................    Colombia
General Motors Commercial Corporation.......................    Delaware
General Motors del Ecuador S.A. ............................    Ecuador
General Motors (Europe) AG..................................    Switzerland
General Motors Export Corporation...........................    Delaware
General Motors Foreign Sales Corporation....................    U.S. Virgin
                                                                Islands
General Motors Holding Espana, S.A. (72.5% owned by General
  Motors Corporation and 26.1% owned by Adam Opel
  Aktiengesellschaft).......................................    Spain
     Delphi Automotive Systems Espana, S.A. ................    Spain
     Delphi Componentes, S.A. ..............................    Spain
     Opel Espana de Automoviles, S.A........................    Spain
General Motors Holdings (U.K.)..............................    England
  General International (UK) Limited (50% owned by
     subsidiary and 50% owned by GMOC Administrative
     Services Corporation)..................................    England
  General Motors Acceptance Corporation (U.K.) Public
     Limited Company........................................    England
     General Motors Acceptance Corporation (U.K.) Finance
      plc...................................................    England
     GMAC Leasing (U.K.) Limited............................    England
     GMAC Leasing (U.K.) (No. 1) Limited....................    England
     GMAC Leasing (U.K.) (No. 2) Limited....................    England
     GMAC Leasing (U.K.) (No. 3) Limited....................    England
  General Motors Locomotive Group India Private Limited.....    India
  IBC Vehicles Limited (81.92% owned by subsidiary).........    United Kingdom
  Millbrook Land and Co. Ltd. ..............................    England
  Millbrook Pension Management Ltd. (99% owned by
     subsidiary)............................................    England
  Millbrook Proving Ground Ltd. ............................    England
  VHC Sub-Holdings (UK) Ltd. ...............................    England
     Vauxhall Motors (Finance) Plc..........................    England
     Vauxhall Motors Limited................................    England
General Motors Indonesia, Inc. .............................    Delaware
General Motors Interamerica Corporation.....................    Delaware
General Motors International Operations, Inc. ..............    Delaware
General Motors Investment Management Corporation............    Delaware
General Motors Japan Ltd. ..................................    Japan
General Motors Korea, Inc. .................................    Delaware
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-15
<PAGE>   6
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    STATE OR
                                                                SOVEREIGN POWER
                     NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                         OF INCORPORATION
                     ------------------                         ----------------
<S>                                                             <C>
General Motors Market Development of Canada Limited.........    Canada
General Motors Nederland B.V. ..............................    Netherlands
  Allison Transmission Europe B.V. .........................    Netherlands
  General Motors Poland Spolka, zo.o. ......................    Poland
  General Motors Yugoslavia, d.o.o. ........................    Yugoslavia
  Opel C&S spol. s.r.o. ....................................    Czechoslovakia
  Opel Nederland B.V. ......................................    Netherlands
General Motors Nordiska AB..................................    Sweden
General Motors Overseas Corporation.........................    Delaware
  Delphi Automotive Systems Australia Ltd. .................    Australia
  Delphi Energy and Engine Management Systems UK Overseas
     Corporation............................................    Delaware
  Delphi Overseas Corporation...............................    Delaware
     Delphi Chassis Systems UK Limited......................    England/Wales
     Delphi Saginaw Steering Systems U.K. Limited...........    England
  G.M. Holding (Portugal) SGPS, Lda. (50% owned by
     subsidiary and 50% owned by General Motors
     Corporation)...........................................    Portugal
       Delphi Packard Sistemas Electricos, S.A. ............    Portugal
       INLAN -- Industria de Componentes Mecanicos, S.A. ...    Portugal
       Opel Portugal, Lda. .................................    Portugal
  GMOC Administrative Services Corporation..................    Delaware
     Fisher Body Limited (50% owned by subsidiary and 50%
      owned by GM (UK) Pension Trustees Limited)............    Ireland
     GM (UK) Pension Trustees Limited (50% owned by
      subsidiary and 50% owned by Vauxhall Motors
      Limited)..............................................    United Kingdom
  GMOC Australia Pty. Ltd. .................................    Australia
  General Motors-Holden's Automotive Limited (49% owned by
     subsidiary and 51% owned by United Australian
     Automotive Industries Limited).........................    Australia
  General Motors Overseas Commercial Vehicle Corporation....    Delaware
  General Motors Venezolana, C.A. ..........................    Venezuela
  Holden's Motor Overseas Corporation Limited...............    Delaware
  Lidlington Engineering Company, Ltd. .....................    Delaware
  Truck and Bus Engineering U.K., Limited...................    Delaware
General Motors Overseas Distribution Corporation............    Delaware
  Delphi Automotive Systems Luxembourg S.A. ................    Luxembourg
  Delphi Packard Elektrik Sistemleri Ltd. Sti. (97.6% owned
     by subsidiary and 2.4% owned by General Motors Overseas
     Corporation)...........................................    Turkey
  GMODC Finance N.V. .......................................    Netherlands
                                                                Antilles
  General Motors Import & Distribution GmbH.................    Germany
  General Motors Investment Services Company N.V. ..........    Belgium
General Motors Peru S.A. ...................................    Peru
General Motors Receivables Corporation......................    Delaware
General Motors Uruguay, S.A. ...............................    Uruguay
General Motors U.S. Trading Corp. ..........................    Nevada
Grand Pointe Holdings, Inc. ................................    Michigan
Holden New Zealand Limited..................................    New Zealand
  General Motors New Zealand Pensions Limited...............    New Zealand
Hughes Electronics Corporation..............................    Delaware
  Delco Electronics Corporation.............................    Delaware
     Delco Electronics Asia/Pacific Pte Ltd. ...............    Singapore
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-16
<PAGE>   7
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    STATE OR
                                                                SOVEREIGN POWER
                     NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                         OF INCORPORATION
                     ------------------                         ----------------
<S>                                                             <C>
     Delco Electronics Overseas Corporation.................    Delaware
     Delco Electronics Service Corporation..................    Delaware
     Delco Electronics Singapore Pte. Ltd. .................    Singapore
     Delco Electronics (Suzhou) Co., Ltd. ..................    China
     Delnosa, S.A. de C.V. .................................    Mexico
     Deltronicos de Matamoros, S.A. de C.V. ................    Mexico
     f&g megamos Sicherheitselektronik GmbH.................    Germany
     FUBA Automotive LLC....................................    Michigan
     Mecel AB...............................................    Sweden
  DIRECTV Global, Inc. .....................................    Delaware
  H E Microwave Corporation.................................    Delaware
  HE Holdings, Inc. (dba Hughes Electronics)................    Delaware
     Advanced Electronics Systems International.............    California
     DIRECTV Enterprises, Inc. (97.5% owned by
      subsidiary)...........................................    Delaware
     Hughes Aircraft Company................................    Delaware
     Hughes Aircraft of Canada Limited......................    Canada
     Hughes Aircraft Holdings Canada Ltd. ..................    Canada
     Hughes Aircraft Systems International..................    California
     Hughes Australia International PTY Ltd. ...............    Australia
     Hughes-Avicom International, Inc. .....................    California
     Hughes Electronics Manufacturing Service Company.......    Delaware
     Hughes Espana S.A. ....................................    Spain
     Hughes Europe N.V. ....................................    Belgium
     Hughes Foreign Sales Corporation.......................    U.S. Virgin
                                                                Islands
     Hughes International Corporation.......................    Delaware
     Hughes International de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. ..........    Mexico
     Hughes International Sales Corporation.................    California
     Hughes International Sales Corporation No. 2...........    California
     Hughes Investment Management Company...................    California
     Hughes Microelectronics Limited........................    United Kingdom
     Hughes Middle East Limited.............................    Delaware
     Hughes Network Systems, Inc. ..........................    Delaware
     Hughes Power Products, Inc. (60% owned by subsidiary
      and 40% owned by General Motors Corporation)..........    Delaware
     Hughes Research Laboratories, Inc. ....................    Delaware
     Hughes Systems Management International................    California
     Hughes Telecommunications & Space Company..............    Delaware
     Hughes (U.K.) Limited..................................    England
     International Electronics Systems, Inc. ...............    California
     L-T Ranches, Inc. .....................................    California
     MDP, Ltd. .............................................    California
     Systems Building Corp. ................................    Arizona
  Hughes Electronics International, Inc. ...................    Delaware
     Hughes Electronics Holding GmbH........................    Germany
     Hughes International GmbH..............................    Germany
  Hughes Electronics Realty, Inc. ..........................    Delaware
IBC Vehicles (Distribution) Limited (60% owned by General
  Motors
  Corporation)..............................................    United Kingdom
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-17
<PAGE>   8
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    STATE OR
                                                                SOVEREIGN POWER
                     NAME OF SUBSIDIARY                         OF INCORPORATION
                     ------------------                         ----------------
<S>                                                             <C>
Luton Design Centre Limited (owned by GMOC Administrative
  Services Corporation).....................................    United Kingdom
MB Cable Confection Sdn Bhd.................................    Malaysia
Opel Austria GmbH...........................................    Austria
  Delphi Automotive Systems Vienna GmbH.....................    Austria
  Opel Hungary Automotive Distribution Ltd. ................    Hungary
  Opel Hungary Automotive Manufacturing Ltd. ...............    Hungary
Opel Belgium N.V. ..........................................    Belgium
OPEL Guangzhou Precision Machining Co. Ltd. ................    China
Opel Ireland Limited........................................    Ireland
Opel Italia S.p.A. (99.9% owned by General Motors
  Corporation and 0.1% owned by General Motors Overseas
  Distribution Corporation).................................    Italy
Opel Norge AS...............................................    Norway
Opel Oy.....................................................    Finland
Opel Suisse S.A. ...........................................    Switzerland
  GM-Saab Communication GmbH (55% owned by subsidiary)......    Switzerland
Packard CTA Pty. Ltd. (60% owned by General Motors
  Corporation)..............................................    Australia
Packard Electric Ireland Limited............................    Ireland
Packard Hughes Interconnect Company.........................    Delaware
  Packard Hughes Interconnect Connection Systems............    California
  Packard Hughes Interconnect Engineering Services..........    Delaware
  Packard Hughes Interconnect Wiring Systems................    California
Packard Electric Systems Samara Cable Company (51% owned by
  General Motors Corporation)...............................    Russia
Provencorp S.A..............................................    Argentina
PT General Motors Buana Indonesia (60% owned by General
  Motors Corporation).......................................    Indonesia
P.T. Packard Kabelindo Murni Indonesia (60% owned by General
  Motors Corporation).......................................    Indonesia
Radiadores Richard, S.A. (60% owned by General Motors
  Corporation)..............................................    Argentina
Riverfront Holdings, Inc. ..................................    Delaware
Saab Opel Sverige AB........................................    Sweden
Saturn Corporation..........................................    Delaware
  Saturn Distribution Corporation...........................    Delaware
Saturn County Bond Corporation..............................    Delaware
</TABLE>
 
  131 directly or indirectly owned subsidiaries
 
  Companies not included in the Registrant's consolidated financial statements,
  for which no financial statements are submitted:
 
     14 other directly or indirectly owned domestic and foreign subsidiaries
 
         11 active subsidiaries  
          3 inactive subsidiaries
 
     39 fifty-percent owned companies and 66 less than fifty-percent owned
        companies the investments in which are accounted for by the equity
        method.
 
                                      IV-18
<PAGE>   9
 
  In addition, the Registrant owns 100% of the voting control of the following
companies:
 
     345 dealerships operating under dealership assistance plans and engaged in
         retail distribution of General Motors products
 
         237 dealerships operating in the United States 108 dealerships
         operating in foreign countries
 
  Companies not shown by name, if considered in the aggregate as a single
  subsidiary, would not constitute a significant subsidiary.
 
  During 1996, there were changes in the number of subsidiaries and companies of
the Registrant, as follows:
 
     3 directly and 22 indirectly owned domestic subsidiaries, and 16 directly
     and 33 indirectly owned foreign subsidiaries were organized or acquired. 3
     directly and 69 indirectly owned domestic subsidiaries, and 1 direct and
     218 indirectly owned foreign subsidiaries were dissolved or sold. A
     fifty-percent interest and less than fifty-percent interests were acquired
     in 6 companies and 6 companies, while interests in 5 fifty-percent owned
     and 45 less than fifty-percent owned companies were terminated. 1
     indirectly fifty-percent owned foreign subsidiary moved to greater than
     fifty-percent owned. 1 indirectly owned foreign subsidiary moved to
     fifty-percent owned. 1 indirectly owned less than fifty-percent foreign
     subsidiary moved to fifty-percent owned. 1 indirectly owned less than
     fifty-percent domestic subsidiary moved to greater than fifty-percent
     owned. 1 inactive domestic subsidiary was dissolved.
 
  The number of dealerships operating under dealership assistance plans
decreased by a net of 28.
 
                                    *******
 
                                      IV-19

<PAGE>   1
 
                                                                      EXHIBIT 23
 
                  GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
 
The Board of Directors
General Motors Corporation:
 
     We consent to the incorporation by reference of our reports dated January
28, 1997 appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of General Motors
Corporation for the year ended December 31, 1996, in the following Registration
Statements:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
         REGISTRATION
FORM     STATEMENT NO.                            DESCRIPTION
- ----     -------------                            -----------
<C>    <S>                <C>
S-3    33-41557           General Motors Corporation Debt Securities
S-3    33-64229           General Motors Corporation Debt Securities
S-3    333-13797          General Motors Corporation Debt Securities
S-3    33-47343 (Post-    General Motors Corporation $1 2/3 Par Value Common Stock
       Effective
       Amendment No. 1)
S-3    33-49035           General Motors Corporation $1 2/3 Par Value Common Stock
       (Amendment No. 1)
S-3    33-56671           General Motors Corporation $1 2/3 Par Value Common Stock
       (Amendment No. 1)
S-3    33-49309           General Motors Corporation Dividend Reinvestment Plan
S-8    333-17975          The General Motors Personal Savings Plan for Hourly-Rate
                            Employees in the United States
S-8    33-54841           General Motors Amended 1987 Stock Incentive Plan
S-8    333-17923          General Motors Savings-Stock Purchase Program for Salaried
                            Employees in the United States
S-8    33-32322           Hughes Aircraft Company Salaried Employees' Thrift and
                            Savings Plan
                          Hughes Aircraft Company Tucson Bargaining Employees' Thrift
                            and Savings Plan
                          Hughes Aircraft Company California Hourly Employees' Thrift
                            and Savings Plan
                          Hughes Thrift and Savings Plan
S-8    33-54835           The GMAC Mortgage Corporation Savings Incentive Plan
S-8    333-22955          Hughes Electronics Corporation Incentive Plan
S-8    333-21029          Saturn Individual Savings Plan for Represented Members
S-8    333-17937          Saturn Personal Choices Savings Plan for Non-Represented
                            Members
S-8    33-28714           Marketing & Systems Development Corporation 1985 Incentive
                            Stock Option Plan
</TABLE>
 
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
- ---------------------------------------
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
 
Detroit, Michigan
March 19, 1997
 
                                      IV-20

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM GENERAL
MOTORS CORPORATION DECEMBER 31, 1996 CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO 1996 FORM 10-K.
</LEGEND>
<CIK> 0000040730
<NAME> GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1996
<CASH>                                          14,063
<SECURITIES>                                     8,199
<RECEIVABLES>                                   64,107
<ALLOWANCES>                                         0
<INVENTORY>                                     11,895
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                     0
<PP&E>                                          78,802
<DEPRECIATION>                                  41,298
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 222,142
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                                0
<BONDS>                                         85,300
                                0
                                          1
<COMMON>                                         1,271
<OTHER-SE>                                      22,146
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   222,142
<SALES>                                        145,341
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               164,069
<CGS>                                          123,922
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  135,603
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                   159
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                   669
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                               5,695
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                  6,676
<INCOME-TAX>                                     1,723
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                              4,953
<DISCONTINUED>                                      10
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                     4,963
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     6.06
<EPS-DILUTED>                                        0
        

</TABLE>

<PAGE>   1
 
                                                                      EXHIBIT 99
 
                HUGHES ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             RESPONSIBILITIES FOR CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
     The following consolidated financial statements of Hughes Electronics
Corporation and subsidiaries were prepared by management which is responsible
for their integrity and objectivity. The statements have been prepared in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles and, as such, include
amounts based on judgments of management.
 
     Management is further responsible for maintaining a system of internal
accounting controls that is designed to provide reasonable assurance that the
books and records reflect the transactions of the companies and that its
established policies and procedures are carefully followed. Perhaps the most
important feature in the system of control is that it is continually reviewed
for its effectiveness and is augmented by written policies and guidelines, the
careful selection and training of qualified personnel, and a strong program of
internal audit.
 
     Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent auditing firm, is engaged to audit
the consolidated financial statements of Hughes Electronics Corporation and
subsidiaries and issue reports thereon. The audit is conducted in accordance
with generally accepted auditing standards which comprehend the consideration of
internal accounting controls and tests of transactions to the extent necessary
to form an independent opinion on the financial statements prepared by
management. The Independent Auditors' Report appears on the next page.
 
     The Board of Directors, through its Audit Committee, is responsible for
assuring that management fulfills its responsibilities in the preparation of the
consolidated financial statements and engaging the independent auditors. The
Committee reviews the scope of the audits and the accounting principles being
applied in financial reporting. The independent auditors, representatives of
management, and the internal auditors meet regularly (separately and jointly)
with the Committee to review the activities of each, to ensure that each is
properly discharging its responsibilities, and to assess the effectiveness of
the system of internal accounting controls. It is management's conclusion that
the system of internal accounting controls at December 31, 1996 provides
reasonable assurance that the books and records reflect the transactions of the
companies and that its established policies and procedures are complied with. To
ensure complete independence, Deloitte & Touche LLP has full and free access to
meet with the Committee, without management representatives present, to discuss
the results of the audit, the adequacy of internal accounting controls, and the
quality of the financial reporting.
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                 <C>                           <C>
/s/ C. MICHAEL ARMSTRONG            /s/ CHARLES H. NOSKI          /s/ ROXANNE S. AUSTIN
- ---------------------------------   --------------------------    ---------------------------
C. Michael Armstrong                Charles H. Noski              Roxanne S. Austin
Chairman of the Board and           Vice Chairman and             Senior Vice President,
Chief Executive Officer             Chief Financial Officer       Treasurer and Controller
</TABLE>
 
                                      IV-21


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