1931 DuPont Model H

A one-of-a-kind car built specifically for the 1931 New York Auto Show. This car is one of only three Model H duPonts ever built and one of approximately 35 duPonts known to exist today. DuPont built a total of 516 automobiles between 1919 and 1931.

The Sport Phaeton design featuring dual cowls, twin spare tires hung at the rear of the car, and graceful, sweeping lines accentuated by its paint scheme, is known as the most elegant of all duPont cars.

Owned by Jerry Reigel, his son Dicky and Grandson Richard. The car has been in the Riegel family since 1962 when it was purchased by Richard E. Riegel Jr.

In 1802 E.L. duPont deNemours and Company was formed to produce gunpowder. It was located in Wilmington, Delaware. From there it began producing various industrial and consumer products.

In 1919 the duPont car Company was formed by E. Paul duPont. During the First World War, it produced marine engines. In 1919 the Model A was displayed at the New York International Auto Show, held at the Commodore Hotel. The Auto Show at that time was by invitation only and catered to wealthy individuals. Sitting atop a 3150 mm wheelbase and powered by a four-cylinder engine, the Model A was built as a luxury and exclusive automobile, outfitted with exquisite coachwork including Murphy, Merrimac, and Wolfington.

From 1920 through 1924 the duPont Car Company produced their Model B, a vehicle that was similar to the Model A. The total production of the Model A and Model B was less than 120 units, a testament to their exclusivity. Each of the vehicles was tested by E. Paul and the new owners were carefully instructed on the use and features of the automobile.

From 1930 through 1931, duPont produced the Model H. This was also produced in low numbers, only three created. It used a Stearns-Knigh frame that had been lengthened to a wheelbase of 3683 mm.

The Great Depression was ultimately the reason for the demise of the luxury car manufacturer, duPont. During the production lifespan lasting from 1919 through 1931, only 537 duPont automobiles were produced.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2006

1931 DuPont Model H

The final development of the DuPont marque was the production of the Model H with a long wheelbase of 12 feet 2 inches. The example shown has a custom body by Merrimac-Marshall on a Stearns Knight frame and was awarded 'Most Elegant Open Car' at the 2005 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.