1938 American Bantam 2-Door Coupe
2024.0005.0001, Savoy Collection
Engine: 46 cu. in. (.75L) Alum. Head, 4 Cylinder Flathead
Output:20 HP
Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
Wheelbase: 75 in.
Overall Length: Unknown
Weight: 1,200 lbs.
Top Speed: 50 MPH
No. Produced: 135
Original Price: $525
Manufacturer: American Bantam
The origin of the American Bantam traces back to Sir Herbert Austin, an English automaker. Austin’s focus was small, inexpensive cars that became a hit in Europe. Instead of producing cars in the U.S., Austin sold the plans and helped with production in exchange for a per-car royalty fee. Investors created the American Austin Car Company with a plant located in Butler, PA. The company struggled and in 1935, Roy Evans, the largest Austin dealer, purchased the company from the bankruptcy court.
Renamed American Bantam, this particular vehicle began as a one-seat business coupe. Once again, the company struggled to succeed. In 1940, American Bantam initially won a three-way competition with Ford and Willys-Overland to produce a scout vehicle for the military. They exceeded all expectations. A small plant facility was the official reason the company did not receive the contract. It closed in 1956. In 1943, the Fair-Trade Commission ruled that American Bantam, not Willys, was the originator of the Jeep.