As one of two firms to pioneer all-steel automotive bodies – the other was BSA in England – Hupmobile of Detroit marked its fifth year in business by introducing the huge Model 32 as its flagship luxury automobile.
POWERTRAIN
The Model 32 was fitted with an L-head inline four-cylinder engine that produced 32 horsepower when new. The engine in this Model 32 is original to the car, with unknown actual miles. The engine starts, without smoke, when the spark lever is advanced and the choke fully engaged. The two-speed manual transmission operates smoothly. The Hupmobile lacks a front crank and is self-started. No powertrain leaks are observed. The engine bay is stock and clean.
EXTERIOR
The white and brown finish dates to 2009 and is excellent, with no swirls or other imperfection. The exterior is free of scratches, dents and chips. The canvas top has its original rear windows and is in proper working order. No rust exists on the Model 32’s body, and no past rust repairs have been performed. The Hupmobile’s extensive brass fittings include all lamps, the radiator shell and trim pieces, all of which are in excellent condition. The radiator shell has an imposing brass mascot. The car’s running boards are straight. The windshield is free of cracks. The underside is very clean, with nearly all surface corrosion confined to the exhaust pipe.
INTERIOR
The leather seating has been redone, with the materials in excellent, damage-free condition. The carpeting is in good shape, with standard wear. The interior has full trim and no missing parts. The dashboard is dominated by a brass plate that mounts the spark and fuel controls, which are in excellent condition. There is no heater, air conditioning or audio system.
CHASSIS
The Hupmobile has its original suspension and all parts work. The manual steering tracks straight. The Model 32 is not fitted with shock absorbers, but all bushings are functional. No issues with the mechanical drum brakes are noted. The wooden wheels are refinished and solid, with no pitting.