1914 American Underslung 642

American Underslung was founded as the American Motor Car Company in 1905, in Indianapolis, Indiana. The company manufactured some 3,000 automobiles before it closed its doors in 1914. The greatest engineering accomplishment was turning the conventional frame upside down and mounting the axles and springs above it. This significantly lowered the car for improved stability and rakish styling.

This car a 1914 Model 942 roadster is the only such car in existence and may well have been the only one built in 1914. It also appears to have been specially ordered as there are slight differences between this car and catalog illustrations. Those changes include the louvered hood, the lack of a top and windshield and optional 41 inch tires.

The car was quite complete when acquired, its body, upholstery and wood structure were in remarkable condition. The engine was restored by the Christopher Leydon Restorations, Bob Barrett restored the mechanicals and the current owner’s shop completed the rest.

Taken at the 2014 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance.

You may purchase a print in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.