This 1920 Stutz Model H 4-Door Touring is a 4 door tourer body style with a front mounted engine powering a rear wheel drive. The H 4-Door Touring was part of Stutz's Series H series of cars that were powered by a naturally aspirated of 5.9 litre enginey. They also featured 4 cylinders with 4 valves per cylinder and a 3 speed manual gearbox.
This vehicle owned by Jim and Becky Aldrich of Raleigh, NC won Best in Class for "Production Vechiles 1916 – 1948" at the Hilton Head Island Motoring Festival & Concours d’Elegance in 2014.
Overview
- Production Year: 1920
- Manufacturer: Stutz Motor Car Company
- Model: H
- Body Style: 4-Door Touring
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The Stutz Model H is powered by a 5.9-liter (360 cubic inch) inline-four engine.
- This engine produces approximately 80 horsepower.
- The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, which was advanced for its time, providing improved performance and efficiency.
- Transmission:
- The car is equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission.
- The gearbox is designed for smooth and reliable operation, suitable for both city and highway driving.
- Chassis:
- The Model H is built on a sturdy ladder-frame chassis.
- The wheelbase measures 130 inches, providing a stable and comfortable ride.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension consists of a solid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- The rear suspension features a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- This setup offers a comfortable ride, characteristic of luxury cars from this era.
- Brakes:
- The Model H is equipped with mechanical drum brakes on all four wheels.
- These brakes provide reliable stopping power, essential for a vehicle of its size and performance.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Stutz Model H can achieve a top speed of approximately 75 mph (121 km/h).
- Acceleration: The powerful inline-four engine delivers smooth and adequate acceleration for its time.
- Handling: The Model H offers stable and predictable handling, making it suitable for both leisurely drives and long-distance touring.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The Model H 4-Door Touring features a classic and elegant body design, typical of early 1920s luxury automobiles.
- The car has a long hood, sweeping fenders, and a spacious open-top passenger compartment.
- Chrome accents, a distinctive radiator grille, and wooden-spoke wheels enhance its overall aesthetics.
- Interior:
- The interior of the Model H is luxurious and well-appointed, with seating for up to five passengers.
- The seats are upholstered in high-quality leather, offering a comfortable and refined experience.
- The dashboard features essential gauges and controls, with a focus on both functionality and elegance.
- Styling:
- The styling of the Model H is a blend of classic 1920s design elements and luxurious features.
- The car's design emphasizes both aesthetics and comfort, contributing to its enduring appeal and status as a design icon.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The 1920 Stutz Model H represents an important period in the history of the Stutz Motor Car Company, showcasing the company's commitment to producing high-quality and innovative automobiles.
- It was part of Stutz's efforts to compete with other luxury car manufacturers by offering advanced engineering solutions and elegant designs.
- Cultural Impact:
- The Stutz Model H is a symbol of the elegance and sophistication of the early 1920s, often associated with the affluent and influential individuals of the era.
Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print for the 1920 Stutz Model H 4-Door Touring in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.
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