1910 Hupmobile Model 20 Runabout

Hupmobile started production in 1909 with the Model 20. It had a 20-horsepower, 4-cylinder, water-cooled engine with a 2-speed sliding gear transmission. It was light, nimble, sporty, fast for the day, and could be considered among the first sports cars. Its only shortcoming was its ability to climb steep hills due to having only a 2-speed transmission, earning the nickname 'Up No Hill.' It had an 86-inch wheelbase and was available only with a roadster/runabout body. Production was 1,618 cars in 1909 climbing to 5,340 in 1910. The price was $750, $150 less than the comparable Model T Ford. In 1912 Hupmobile introduced the larger 32 horsepower Model 32 starting their trend towards progressively larger more powerful cars. The last year for the Model 20 was 1913. Hupmobile produced a wide variety of models until 1941 when production ceased.

This car was acquired by the present owner in 1985 in Elgin, IL. It was in a rough condition requiring a full restoration. In addition to the usual paint, top, and upholstery it had missing and badly deteriorated parts both driveline and body. It was necessary to fabricate more powertrain and body parts from old manuals and parts borrowed from other Model 20s. Even the radiator and wheels required fabrication from scratch. The restoration took 7 years to bring it to its present beautiful condition.