Description
The Stutz Series E Bearcat, introduced in 1919, was a continuation of the legendary Bearcat line that had gained fame for its high performance, sporty design, and reputation as one of America’s first true sports cars. The Bearcat, produced by the Stutz Motor Car Company, was a symbol of speed and style, appealing to drivers seeking a powerful, open-road racer during the early years of automotive enthusiasm.
The Series E Bearcat was powered by a 5.9-liter (361 cubic inch) T-head inline-four engine, producing around 80 horsepower—an impressive figure for the era. This engine gave the Bearcat excellent acceleration and a top speed exceeding 80 mph (130 km/h), placing it among the fastest production cars of its time. The Bearcat’s performance was further enhanced by a four-speed manual transmission, which provided better control and a more engaging driving experience than typical cars of the period, which often had only two or three speeds.
The car’s design emphasized simplicity and functionality. It featured a lightweight, stripped-down, open two-seater body, with minimal fenders, no roof, and a low, raked windshield. This sporty design minimized weight and allowed for an ideal balance, giving the Bearcat outstanding handling and making it popular for racing and hill-climbing competitions. The driver sat behind a large, wood-rimmed steering wheel, with basic instrumentation focused on the essentials.
The Bearcat’s reputation as a “race car for the road” earned it a special place in automotive history, and it became an iconic symbol of the Jazz Age. It was favored by adventurous drivers and celebrities, reinforcing its status as one of America’s most desirable performance cars.
Today, the Stutz Series E Bearcat is an icon of early American motoring, representing a time when cars were built for pure driving pleasure and performance. Its rarity and historical significance make it a highly valuable collector’s car, cherished for its contribution to the legacy of American sports cars.