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62 of 86 lots
Lot 62
1929 Stutz Series M Cabriolet
Estimate:
$40,000 - $60,000
Starting bid:
$25
Sold for
$50,000
Live Auction
Estate of Mark Smith Auction
Description
Without Reserve

Chassis: 28273
Engine: 32777

Fascinating Documented History Includes Multiple Transatlantic Voyages
Upgraded with DOHC DV-32 Cylinder Head in 1938
Displays in Fabulous Patinated Condition Throughout

322 CID DOHC Inline 8-Cylinder Engine
Single Stromberg Downdraft EE-3 Carburetor
Estimated 125 BHP
4-Speed Manual Gearbox
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Front Beam Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs
Rear Live Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs

From its debut at the inaugural running of the Indianapolis 500 in 1911, Stutz cultivated an obsession with speed. Following its 1927 Stevens Trophy Cup and AAA Stock Car Champion wins, along with its epic 1928 Le Mans battle, the Indianapolis firm introduced its improved Series M in 1929. The enlarged Vertical Eight engine provided more power, incorporating numerous induction improvements. Coupled with the new four-speed gearbox, the Series M delivered the best performance to date.

The known history of this fascinating Stutz Series M Cabriolet begins with its second owner, Norman Chambers, who, according to a copy of a letter on file from legendary Stutz collector A.K. Miller, was the European sales manager for the Caterpillar Tractor Co. According to various notes in its history file, Mr. Chambers purchased the Stutz in 1931 and drove it extensively into the 1970s.

In the years in-between, according to copies of pages from Mr. Chambers’ typewritten log, which chronicle most every oil change, repair, and adjustment, he drove the Stutz in Berlin, Hamburg, and New York, all in the early months of 1938. Around this time, he had a 32-valve Stutz DV-32 cylinder head installed on the engine block. After further travel, he shipped the Stutz out of Paris in June 1940 to Coimbra, Portugal, then back to the US in mid-1941. In June 1953, he noted that he replaced the Stutz’s damaged engine block (no. 31023) with the block currently fitted, no. 32777.

Additionally, in his letter, A.K. Miller acknowledges that the rake of the Cabriolet’s windshield was modified by the foreman of a Stutz dealer, presumably in the eastern US. A New York State inspection sticker, dated 1960–1961, remains attached to the windshield. Further communication on file notes that the Stutz was owned in 2003 by Mike Cleary, who later sold it to collector Don Connolly. Mark Smith then purchased the Series M from Mr. Connolly in 2006.

Presenting today with advanced patina, the coachwork’s black paint has begun to fail, to dramatic effect. Likewise, the sturdy oilcloth seat covers and canvas top appear to be from another age and are in keeping with the car’s overall presentation. The odometer, together with notes on file, place the Stutz’s mileage at 164,212.

This sporting Stutz Series M Cabriolet has seen a large portion of the world during historic times. It now sits idle, but is ready to continue its borderless journey, and its next owner will have the honor of adding to its unfinished memoir.

*Please note that this Lot, like all vehicles in this Auction, has been in long-term static storage and may not be currently operational. It will require mechanical attention prior to any road use.

Gooding & Company presents and conducts the Estate of Mark Smith Auction under the authority of John J. Rendemonti, Executor of the Estate of Mark J. Smith, duly appointed by the Circuit Court of the State of New Hampshire, Probate Division, Case Number 312-2022-ET-00072. The Estate has compiled available title and/or registration paperwork for the Vehicles offered in the Auction and will provide such paperwork to the Buyer if it is available. However, as set forth more fully in the Conditions of Sale, neither the Estate nor Gooding makes any representation or warranty with respect to any existing certificate of title or registration with regard to any Lot in the Auction. Any Lot may be sold on a Bill of Sale. By participating in this Auction, all bidders and buyers recognize that Estate and Gooding have expressly disclaimed all such warranties concerning the availability or sufficiency of any title or registration documentation.