1933 Stutz DV-32 Dual Cowl Phaeton

During the early era of automobile production, there were a number of founders of automobile companies who were later forced out of the company that bore their name. To make matters worse, they were unable to use their name.

John Brisben Walker, the publisher of Cosmopolitan magazine, acquired about buying the Stanley brother's business in the late 1900s. The brothers quickly stated a very high sum of $250,000, which was accepted, to much surprise of the Stanley brothers. Part of the agreement between Walker and the Stanley brothers was they would not compete for one year and would serve as general managers for the newly formed Locomobile Company.

The REO Motor Company was formed after Ranson E. Olds was forced out of the Oldsmobile Company. Harry Stutz left the company that bore his name in 1919 after Alan Ryan's acquisition of controlling interest in 1919. At the time, the Stutz Company was one of the leading marques.

In some cases, when the founder left the company, they soon perished. For the Stutz Company, it would survive and prosper for a number of years. The Company had been acquired by Bethlehem Steel's Charles Schwab for $20 a share, which totaled $3.7 million. Mr. Fred Moskovics, an engineer, promoter, marketer, and motivator, was hired as president. Under his tutelage, the company was elevated to a new level of success.

This 1933 Stutz DV32 Dual Cowl Phaeton was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars sale at Hershey, PA, presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $450,000 - $600,000. Bidding surpassed the estimates and sold for $797,500. Part of the allure is that it is, possibly, the only DV32 Dual Cowl Phaeton in Existence.

This car spent many years in the famed Harrah Collection where it was in its original condition until the mid-1980s, when it was sold to Mr. Irving Davis. Under his care, it was treated to a concours standard restoration. Since then, it has been used on several CCCA tours and events and remains in excellent condition. It has LeBaron Coachwork and is considered a Full Classic by the Classic Car Club of America.

It is fitted with an eight-cylinder engine with double overhead cams and displaces 322 cubic inches. The 156-horsepower engine is mated to a three-speed manual gearbox and has four-wheel vacuum-assisted drum brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2007