The Revolutionary Tucker Torpedoes Its Way to the Top
In the world of classic cars, there are a few superstars that are considered to be in the upper echelon of collectibles, even above the Shelbys, L88 Corvettes, and Mopar Hemis. Members of this elite club are cars such as Mercedes Gullwings, Duesenburgs, Ferraris, one-off concept models, and historically significant racecars, all cars that regularly demand at least $1 million. One of the relatively recent, and unexpected, additions to this VIP club, the 1948 Tucker Torpedo, has become a standout at any car show or auction. Here are some of the roads it has taken on its way to stardom.
The Revolutionary Tucker
The Tucker Torpedo was the vision of Preston Tucker, a maverick who thought he could compete with Detroit's Big Three, by producing a superior car. Although he didn't get the opportunity to join the ranks of the top American automakers, his car, the Tucker Torpedo, gave us a glimpse into what might have been, if he had been given the chance. Because of his bold and innovative ideas, such as a rear-mounted engine, a headlight that turned in the direction the car was steered, futuristic aerodynamics, and a host of safety features, the Tucker was well ahead of its time. With such an auspicious beginning, it isn't hard to imagine what Preston Tucker was capable of, and how much of an impact his future ideas would have had on the entire automotive industry. However, only 51 cars were built before governmental intervention, and a loss of financial backing, derailed his plans.
Tucker Means Collectible
The primary reason the Tucker Torpedo is so desirable is that there is a shortage of these cars on the market. Since so few were built, and fewer are available for purchase, the demand for this unique car far exceeds the supply. Furthermore, the Torpedo is widely recognized as a pioneer, particularly for its technologically advanced safety features. These reasons, along with the mainstream appeal of an underdog, Preston Tucker, challenging the automotive establishment, is why the name Tucker has become synonymous with collectible.
Tuckers Auction History
The 1988 release of the movie, "Tucker: The Man and His Dream," appreciably boosted interest in the Tucker Torpedo. Prior to Francis Ford Coppola and George Lucas bringing Preston Tucker's story to the big screen, the highest sale price of any Tucker had been $175,000. However, in October 1989, one of these unique sedans sold for $275,000, which was just the beginning of its ascent to the big leagues of collectibles.
It isn't often, but occasionally, a Tucker is offered for sale at a major auction. Here are 10 Tuckers that have been sold over the last 10 years.
2004
Car Number 1043:
Auction Company: RM Auctions
Final Price: $495,000
Color: Waltz Blue
Trivia: This multiple-award winner, which RM had restored in 2003, reportedly later sold for $700,000 to the man who also bought the GM Futurliner at Barrett-Jackson for $4.2 million.
2005
Auction Company: Bonham
Location: Brookline, Massachusetts
Final Price: $461,500
Color: Grey
Trivia: This car once belonged to businessman and ex-governor of Arkansas, Winthrop Rockefeller.
2006
Car Number 1038:
Auction Company: RM Auctions
Location: Monterey, CA
Final Price: $577,500
Color: Green
Trivia: The car had traveled only 3100 miles since new. It was equipped from the factory with an AM radio and factory luggage.
2008
Car Number 1038:
Auction Company: RM Auctions
Location: Monterey, CA
Final Price: $1,017,500
Color: Green
Trivia: Estimated to sell from $500,000 - $600,000, this Tucker brought considerably more. Supply and demand of the Tucker, as well as the very low mileage of this particular car, were instrumental in setting the final price.
2009
Car Number 1041:
Auction Company: Clars Auction Gallery
Location: Berkley, CA
Final Price: $765,000
Color: Yellow (Originally Black)
Trivia: The new owner already had two other Tuckers, but decided he needed a threesome. This car came from the estate of a San Francisco car collector, who bought it for $5,000 in 1970.
2010
Auction Company: RM Auctions
Location: Monterey, CA
Final Price: $1,127,500
Color: Navy Blue (Originally Grey)
Trivia: There have been several owners of this car over the years. At one time, it was part of a traveling Tucker show, which appeared at fairs and car shows.
2011
Car Number 1010:
Auction Company: Gooding and Company
Location: Amelia Island, FL
Final Price: $797,500
Color: Turquoise (Originally Waltz Blue)
Trivia: This car was found in a dilapidated garage in Auburn, Washington, where it was parked for 54 years. Intact, but not in running order, this Tucker sold as-is (unrestored).
2012
Car Number 1043:
Auction Company: Barrett-Jackson
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
Final Price: $2,915,000
Color: Waltz Blue
Trivia: The sale set the all-time record for a Tucker, which is more than double the previous record set by RM Auctions ($1,127,500). The color, Waltz Blue, was based on the color of Mrs. Tucker's favorite dress.
Auction Company: Gooding and Company
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
Final Price: $1,320,000
Color: Waltz Blue
Trivia: This is one of the 29 Tuckers that was unsold when Tucker shut its doors, but it eventually sold in 1950. It appeared in the film "Tucker: The Man and His Dream."
2014
Car Number 1003:
Auction Company: Gooding & Company
Location: Scottsdale
Final Price: $2,035,000
Color: Maroon
Trivia: This is one of the 29 Tuckers that was unsold when Tucker shut its doors, but it eventually sold in 1950. It appeared in the film "Tucker: The Man and His Dream."
Car Number 1036:
Auction Company: RM Auctions
Location: Monterey
Final Price: $1,567,500
Color: Maroon
Trivia: This Tucker is equipped with the rare Tucker Y-1 transmission.
One Man's Passion
David Cammack not only owned three Tuckers, but he accumulated parts, prototype equipment, and a treasure trove of original documents associated with the Tucker 48. Upon his passing, his collection was handed over to the AACA Museum to maintain and showcase for all future generations. For more about this impressive display, go to "Hershey AACA Museum Showcases a Trio of Tuckers."
