1941 American Bantam Model 65 Convertible Coupe

The American Bantam were well-engineered cars meant to capture a niche market. Sadly, too many Americans were uninterested. Those that were, sought the Ford Model A which were less expensive, had more standard power, and more storage space.

The American Bantam cars were initially based on the 1922 Austin Seven, and built in Butler, PA under license from American Austin. The company would cease production in 1934 and re-open their doors in 1937 with restyled and re-engineered cars. The design was courtesy of Alexis de Sakhnoffsky. The redesigned engine was courtesy of Roy Evans and featured three main bearings.

Again, the company failed to find a large market share and sales were slow. Production would continue for only a few years, ending in 1941.

This 1941 American Bantam Convertible Coupe is a former AACA National First Prize winner. It is finished in tan with a full-length vermillion pin stripe and a tan Haartz cloth top. There are bumper guards, rear fender skirts, and leather ginger upholstery. The engine is a four-cylinder unit that displaces 50 cubic-inches and produces 22 horsepower. There is a three-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel mechanically-actuated brakes.

In 2008, this Convertible Coupe was offered for sale at the 'Sports & Classics of Monterey' presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $25,000 - $40,000 and offered without a reserve. A high bid of $30,250 including buyer's premium was enough to secure new ownership. The lot was sold.

In 2010, this American Bantam was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company Auction held in Scottsdale, Arizona. It was estimated to sell for $25,000 - $35,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the lot was sold for the sum of $42,900, inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2010