Stutz Model MB Monte Carlo by Weymann 1930, Estados Unidos

Stutz Model MB Monte Carlo by Weymann 1930, Estados Unidos
Fotografia

Among the most beautiful sedans of the Classic Era, Stutz’s Monte Carlo was produced by the Weymann American Body Company of Indianapolis, using the patented French “Weymann method” with outer body panels of colored synthetic leather. The result was relatively lightweight and flexible closed coachwork, memorably advertised as “squeakproof,” which when combined with the Monte Carlo’s low, almost menacing lines, resulted in one of the all-time ultimate Stutzes.

The example offered here was one of three known to have been produced on the 1930 Model MB chassis, with the powerful ‘SV16’ engine. It resided for many years in the fabled Stutz hoard of A.K. Miller in East Orange, Vermont, from which it was finally sold in 1985, reportedly as part of a package deal to gunmaker and Stutz enthusiast, William Ruger. Still in very complete original and unrestored condition, the Monte Carlo was then acquired by the late, beloved California-based collector, Jacques Harguindeguy, and was restored by him in concert with mechanic Lloyd Buck and noted upholsterer Ken Nemanic, the latter known for his artistry in restoring Weymann bodies. Their hard work paid off in 1990 when the car was exhibited, fresh from its restoration, at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, winning Best in Class, the first of several honors it would receive in concours competition.

The Stutz was acquired in 1996 by the Blackhawk Collection, then sold in 2001 to Stanley Zimmerman. Mr. Zimmerman transferred the car in 2007 to the Automobile Driving Museum of El Segundo, California, an institution he co-founded, with the focus on maintaining cars in driving condition and sharing them in that form with the public. There the car has been well-maintained both cosmetically and mechanically, while continuing to be shown regularly at events in Southern California. Now a beautiful older restoration, it is being sold today to fund the Automobile Driving Museum’s continued operations.