1930 Stutz Series M Cabriolet by LeBaron
Just released from a prominent European collection
Beautiful and rare coachwork by LeBaron with aluminum rear body
Recent frame-off mechanical restoration completed by antique
automobile specialists in Italy
Multiple show winner
Multiple Preservation Class Winner at Concours D’ Elegance shows in
Italy
CCCA eligible
One of only a handful known to exist
Previous California ownership
Wonderfully preserved with mostly original paint and interior
Desirable 4-speed transmission
Options include:
Dual sidemount spares
Dual horns
Dual cowl lights
Philco AM radio
Golf club compartment
Rumble seat
In 1928, Stutz was riding the wave of success that came from
their second place finish at the 24 hours of Le Mans. This victory
helped to increase sales and pushed Stutz to further enhance their
engines. The new 8-cylinder “Safety Stutz” was the result of
engineer Charles Greuter. This mechanical marvel was based on a
design he had previously done for Excelsior and featured a chain
driven overhead camshaft, dual ignition, cross flow cylinder head
and a dual throat carburetor. It’s 322 cubic inches produced 113
horsepower and went on to propel Stutz to a 10th place finish at
the 1930 Indianapolis 500, an incredible feat for a factory built
car. However, this success would be short-lived as Stutz production
would cease completely by 1935 with only 35,000 cars
manufactured–very few of which remain today. It’s approximated that
less than 1500 were built in 1930.
The Series M debuted in 1929 and offered two chassis lengths of
either 134 1/2” or 145” long. Both were subject to several
coachbuilders; LeBaron being one of the most noted. The car offered
here is an elegant two door Cabriolet with aluminum rear rumble
seat bodywork that is finished in Black with a Butterscotch leather
interior. It spent most of its life in California before moving on
to a prominent collection in Europe. Upon arrival in Italy, the
car’s incredible original condition was easily detectable, and in
keeping with Italian tradition it was decided that chassis
M8-46-CD25E would undergo a sympathetic restoration, dedicated to
highlighting the car’s incredible original condition.
A complete frame off mechanical restoration was performed by the
specialists at Dimar Restoration in Italy, whose expertise in
conservation rather than full restoration was perfectly suited for
the staggering amount of hours and work that had to be performed.
The frame was removed from the body for the first time in the car’s
history. All mechanical components including the rare 4-speed
gearbox, differential, hydraulic brakes and suspension components
were renewed by Gianni Torelli’s specialist restoration company in
the Emilia Romagna province of Italy. Torelli also rebuilt the
legendary Stutz 8 engine with new pistons, connecting rods and
valve train, even going as far as breaking in the engine on test
stand and fully tuning it before placing it back in the vehicle.
Meanwhile the Stutz’s electrical system was reworked, including all
the original instruments which were brought back to working
condition. Dimar completely disassembled the body, cleaning and
polishing all the trim by hand. Chrome work was kept to a bare
minimum and when performed finished to match the rest of the
Stutz’s appearance, most of which still wears the original paint.
The original leather interior was professionally cleaned and
preserved as much as possible, requiring only a few new pieces. The
cabin was completed by a new convertible top that when down only
compliments the optional aluminum bodywork with rumble seat. New
Period correct 20” tires were fitted and the vehicle still retains
its original Philco AM radio. Together Dimar and Torelli achieved a
Stutz Series M Cabriolet that’s incredible originality is proudly
highlighted, while being on top of a fully rejuvenated platform.
Its charm and character is only matched by how well it performs and
would make an excellent vehicle for rallies and tours.
After the restoration was completed, this Stutz was an award
recipient at several Italian Concours, including the “FIVA
Preservation Cup” from the 2011 Unique Special One’s in Florance
and the “Preservation and Restoration award” at the 2011 Castello
di Miramare Concours in Trieste. Its incredible condition is likely
to make it an excellent candidate for other preservation class
Concours shows in the future. We are proud to offer this Stutz to
the most sophisticated collector, investor or enthusiast who
appreciates this great classic. Classic cars have proven to be
among the most resilient and rewarding investments in recent years
with the Historic Automobile Group Index (HAGI) jumping 39% in 2013
and posting gains of 395-percent over the last 10-years. Ready to
make an investment you can actually enjoy? Please contact one of
our expert sales consultants at (314)291-7000 or [email protected]
for more information. They will be happy to give you a complete
walk-around, supply you with a more detailed description, and
answer any questions you may have. Buy with confidence.
Trades welcome! Financing available! Please visit www.schmitt.com
to view our full inventory.
