Vehicle Description
As automobile design and manufacturing transformed into a veritable
technological and industrial revolution during the early 1900s,
Indiana-based marques numbered several dozen and their collective
innovation and output rivalled that of their competitors in
Detroit, Michigan. Among those Indiana-based automakers was the
American Motors Company, which first offered a 35/40-horsepower
Touring car by 1906. However, the fledgling company's signature
product, the distinctive Underslung, first appeared in 1907.
Designed by chief engineer Frank Tone, the Underslung featured a
decidedly low and sporting presence, thanks to its unique chassis
design which placed the springs atop the frame rails. Although
collectively known as the Underslung, these cars were separated
into three different model lines by body styles, comprising the
Tourist, Traveler and Scout. With their low, road-hugging
appearance, huge 38-inch diameter tires and distinctive radiator
and body styling, American motor cars were readily identified with
their front-fender peaks nearly parallel to their hoods. Robust and
large-displacement four- and six-cylinder engines were utilized,
ranging from 20 to 60 advertised horsepower according to the
automotive industry's rating practices of the era. The cars looked
fast and spirited and they were prodigious performers for the era.
While American had no formal racing program, local agents
demonstrated their swiftness, including a 45-second run over the
mile at Lowell, Massachusetts by American's Boston dealer in 1907.
While American remains best-known for its Underslung lines, the
company still produced conventional-chassis models that were
designed by eventual industry legend Harry C. Stutz before he moved
on to the competing Indianapolis carmaker Marion and then his own
company. American's motor cars were quite expensive and even with
the addition of a relatively low-priced and modestly powered Scout
model in 1912, sales dwindled until the company finally ceased
operations by the spring of 1914. While reputable published sources
report that American Motors Company production was quite
respectable with 45,000 automobiles built over its relatively brief
existence from 1906 to 1914, few survivors remain today, with fewer
still in the wonderful condition of this 1913 American Underslung
Tourist. Excellent provenance includes past ownership in the
renowned collection of casino magnate, prolific classic-car
collector, and onetime Ferrari dealer, William F. "Bill" Harrah in
Reno, Nevada. Subsequently, the Tourist was owned by William K.
Haines, Sr., a WWII bomber pilot and American Underslung
historian/collector based in Canton, Ohio. Continuing to benefit
from a quality older restoration, the Tourist is positively
captivating with its distinctive paint finish and black leather
upholstery both remaining in very good condition. Dark blue body
and chassis accents, matching wheels, and pin stripes heighten the
Tourist's considerable appeal, along with correct and freshly
polished Nickel-plated bright trim, crowned by a beautifully
preserved American Motors cloisonne radiator badge. Other features
and accessories include large headlights, dual cowl lamps, a large
bulb-type horn, twin rear-mounted spare tires, and a storage case
affixed to the driver's side running board, complete with a large
nickel American Motors badge. The driver is greeted by a
wood-rimmed steering wheel to the right side, plus a Stewart
magnetic-type combination speedometer/odometer/trip odometer. A
black canvas folding top completes this impressive, rare, and
rather unique vintage touring car. This 1913 American Underslung
Tourist is a rare touchstone to America's automobile-industry
roots. Wonderfully presented and ready for continued enjoyment, it
marks an exciting chapter in America's fledgling automobile
industry and carries outstanding collector provenance. Offers
welcome and trades considered For additional details please view
this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7585-1913-american-underslung-tourist/
