1914 Stutz Model 4E Bearcat Roadster

This 1914 Stutz Bearcat with chassis number 2250 is powered by a 390 cubic-inch T-head four-cylinder engine that produces about 60 horsepower. It has a three-speed manual gearbox and two-wheel mechanical brakes. It has been awarded a National First Place award from the Antique Automobile Club of America and has been featured in Automobile Quarterly magazine.

This Bearcat does justice to the legacy of the Stutz Bearcat as being powerful, and a true performance machine. The low-slung chassis makes it suitable for many types of track conditions including high-speed cornering. The fuel tank is mounted directly behind the driver, along with a trunk and dual rear-mount spare tires.

Harry Stutz entered the automotive industry in 1903. Within a short period of time, he was appointed chief engineer for the American Motor Car Company. In 1906 he was employed by the Marion Company and stayed with them until 1910, when he left to form the Stutz Auto Parts Company. He was joined by a colleague from Marion. The Stutz Auto Parts Company ran a successful business selling gearboxes and axles, among other parts. Within a year, Stutz had created his first automobile to bear his name. Boldly, he entered the prototype car in the inaugural Indianapolis 500. The car endured a great deal of tire trouble and finished the race in an impressive 11th place. The car had averaged 68 mph during the race and had held off many factory teams driven by professional drivers. The slogan was born, 'The Car That Made Good in a Day.'

This impressive feat but an unknown automobile producer skyrocketed the Companies fame. The Bearcat made its debut a year later and many were entered in racing competition. In 1913 at the Indy 500, a Bearcat emerged in 3rd place. At the 1915 Indianapolis 500, the Bearcat and their 'White Squadron' of racers managed a third, fourth and seventh-place finish.

The pre-1915 Stutz Bearcat is a rare sight to behold. This example was offered for sale at the 2006 Gooding & Company Auction held in Pebble Beach, where it was estimated to sell between $400,000-$500,000. It was offered without reserve. In recent times, a number of Bearcats have crossed the auction-block stage and often have resulted in a bidding war that escalates the price well beyond the estimated value. These are very rare cars with a proven racing pedigree. Their history is impressive and entertaining and they are a popular feature at many concours's and sporting events. This Bearcat did find a new owner who was willing to spend well above the estimated value. The car was sold for $715,000.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2007