1931 Stutz Model DV-32 Convertible Victoria

The Rollston design number 159, a convertible Victoria for the Stutz chassis, was drawn on December 30th of 1930. The design had a formal top that lacked rear quarter windows, and provided sheltered perch for rear-seat passengers when the top was raised. When the top was lowered, the top would lie flat into a scooped 'notch' behind the doors. Other design features included long doors and a lowered windscreen. The design had originally been developed in Europe in the early 1920s. Waterhouse and later, Rollston, helped popularize the design in the United States in the early 1920s.

It is believed that six Rollston-built Convertible Victorias were eventually built. This particular example, wearing body number 507-A, is believed to have been the first Rollston body built on the DV-32 chassis. The car was originally painted Pyramid Gray, only to have been changed to all-over black with silver striping before delivery. The car was originally to have Eagle Ottawa Persian Morocco leather and all of its hardware chrome plated.

Upon completion, the car was sent to Toronto, Ontario, where local dealer V&S Motors sold it to John Paris Bickell. It is believed that the car remained in his care until his passing in 1951, after which it was sold to Samuel Foote of Toronto. It remained with him until 1962 when it was sold to Gary Campbell. Around 1968, it was sold to Dr. Donald Vesley, from whom Stan Staniszewski of Troy, Michigan, purchased it around 1978.

Mr. Staniszewski began the Stutz's restoration, which progressed off and on for some three decades. In late 2010, Mr. Staniszewski sold the Stutz to its present owner, Richard Mitchell. Mr. Mitchell's own Old Iron Works of Montgomery, Texas, began the restoration anew to modern concours standards, which was completed in 2013. It was returned to the original color scheme specified on the Rollston build sheet.

Since its completion, the car has won numerous awards, most prominently Best of Show victories at Keels and Wheels and the Louisville Concours d'Elegance, as well as Best in Class at Amelia Island and Chairman's Choice at the Milwaukee Masterpiece.

The car rides on a wheelbase of 134.5 inches and weighs 4,850 pounds. It is powered by a 322 cubic-inch, inline 8-cylinder engine developing 113 horsepower. It sold for $2,995 in 1931.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2016