Vehicle Description
As the American motoring industry exploded at the tail end of the
19th century, hundreds of automobile companies began cropping up in
barns, garages, and factories across the country, with wildly
varying degrees of success. The burgeoning industry attracted
engineers from far and wide, with similarly variable talent. One of
the more notably talented among them was Robert Craig Hupp. He
developed his skills at Olds, Ford, and Regal before breaking out
on his own in 1909 when he produced the first Hupmobile. That first
car - the Model 20 - boasted a 20HP four-cylinder engine set in an
86-inch wheelbase chassis with a neat and attractive runabout body.
The sliding gear transmission and high-tension magneto were
features not typically seen on a lower-priced model and immediately
boosted Hupmobile's reputation for value. More than 1,600 cars left
the Detroit, Michigan factory in the first year, and that number
swelled to over 5,300 for the second year. By the time the Model 32
debuted in 1912, Hupmobile was well-established, and the new
flagship model was a show of confidence from the Detroit marque.
The Model 32 was more powerful than any previous "Hupp," boasting a
32 horsepower four-cylinder engine paired with a 106-inch wheelbase
chassis. Hupmobile's mid-market stature did not discourage them
from implementing innovative ideas, and one of the more
forward-thinking features of the Model 32 was its lightweight yet
sturdy all-steel body, produced by railway carriage builders Hale &
Kilburn. Despite Robert Craig Hupp's departure from the firm,
Hupmobile continued its upward trajectory, selling nearly 12,000
examples of the outstanding Model 32 in 1913. Offered here in a
marvelous unrestored state, this 1913 Hupmobile Model 32 is
positively brimming with charming character. This attractive and
rarely seen 5-passenger touring car is exceptionally
well-preserved, with an authentic weathered look. The body is
impressively well-made and is in excellent condition, thanks
largely to its all-steel construction, which eliminates the problem
of structural rot that plagues more traditional wooden-frame
bodies. The numerous details include distinct high-mounted
headlamps, cowl lamps, running board-mounted acetylene generator,
hand horn, and period accessory Boyco fluid canteens. The large
diameter artillery wheels and close-fitting fenders give the Model
32 a slightly underslung look, which, combined with the low-cut
touring body, imparts a sporty character. The body is finished in
black, with a heavily patinated yet consistent finish. Black
leather upholstery is similarly careworn yet remarkably intact for
being more than a century old. It wears every crack and crease with
pride and unashamed honesty. Appointments are appropriately sparse,
with little more than steering and gearbox controls, dash-mounted
spark and throttle levers, and a Stewart speedometer. The
convertible top is likely a later replacement, though it has a
suitably weathered character and matches well with the partial set
of side curtains. The sale also includes a spare cylinder block and
other miscellaneous mechanical spares. Charming and unpretentious,
this rare Hupmobile Model 32 will surely endear itself with its
next caretaker. It would be a welcome sight in Horseless Carriage
Club events, and with minor preparation, will surely be the talk of
your local Cars & Coffee. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6788-1913-hupmobile-model-32-touring/
