Eleven speedsters were built and three having rear mounted spare tires with the top exposed in the down (stored) position. This car, #949, was one of these and the only featuring a fold down windshield and exposed vertical center bar grille. The original owner was Charles Hirshorn, a New York manufacturer and inventor of the paper tea bag.
Interesting features include: eight cylinder engine mated with a four speed transmission, four wheel Lockheed hydraulic brakes, one piece cast aluminum grille/radiator shell assembly, cast aluminum dash, all aluminum body and fenders, one of two built with a rumble seat and partial belly pans covering chassis frame and springs with a sinewy one piece fender flowing the full edge of the car. Several Dupont speedsters had a cannon radiator cap ornament, reflecting the family’s gun powder connection. This car’s mascot radiator cap is unique and was commissioned from Paris offices of Cartier. This particular radiator cap was bought early from another Dupont owner, FAO Schwartz, principle of the larger New York City toy store.
Taken at the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance..
You may purchase a print in ourdElegance 2013 online gallery.
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