1932 Hupmobile Model I-226 Coupe

Robert Craig Hupp completed his first experimental Hupmobile in early November of 1908. Producing 16.9 horsepower, it would later become known as the Model 20. Early the following year the Hupp Motor Car Company put it into production. The car was successful and was superseded by the Model 32 in 1913, which had been introduced the previous year. In 1925, the reliable four-cylinder engine was completely replaced by an eight, which was followed by a six in 1926.

At the height of the Great Depression, Hupmobile offered four different models, with three being carryovers from the 1931 model year. A 93 horsepower eight-cylinder engine was placed into the Series F and it rode on a 122-inch wheelbase. A larger eight-cylinder engine was available, offering 133 horsepower, and was available in the Series H and V, which had a 126-inch and 137-inch platform, respectively. Sedans and victorias were the only body styles offered on the larger eights.

The only all-new offering was the Series I, fitted with a 103 horsepower engine and resting on a 126-inch wheelbase. It was available as a coupe, cabriolet, sedan, or victoria. Of the 10,467 Hupmobiles produced during the 1932 year, only 710 of these were the I-Series. Of those, only one example is left in existence.

In 1932, Hupmobile introduced an all-new design created by designer Raymond Loewy and featured cycle-like front fenders.

This Rumbleseat Coupe wears an older restoration and is powered by an L-head, eight-cylinder engine offering 103 horsepower. There is a three-speed manual transmission, four-wheel mechanical drum brakes, and a 126-inch wheelbase. It was owned by the Harrah Automobile Collection for a period of time. It is finished in two-tone red with green pin-striping and a burgundy interior. The mileage indicates 53,844 miles and is believed to be original. It is equipped with chrome spoke wire wheels with red rims, wide whitewalls, dual side-mounted spare tires with full metal covers and mirrors, dual horns, and a set of Trippe lights.

In 2011, this car was offered for sale at the Hershey, PA auction presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $75,000 - $100,000 and was offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $71,500 inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2011