After his forced departure from General Motors in 1920, William Durant introduced two distinct automobiles, one of which he humbly called the Durant. The more affordable line was named Star, and it was introduced in 1922 to compete with Ford’s Model T. It was lauded by the press as “a great deal of car for the money,” and the assembled car was more advanced than the venerable T, offering a three-speed transmission mated to a Continental engine.
This Star is one of the rarest examples known of William Durant’s existing empire. It displays the graceful patina of an older restoration and upon closer inspection of the blue and black paint, despite minor indications of cracking and shrinkage, its finish is still very presentable. The limited brightwork on the car was nicely restored and is generally free of imperfections, as is the black vinyl top, which was properly installed and finished. The exterior is is adorned by Smith headlamps and a Boyce Motometer. Bright green wood spoke wheels complement the body quite nicely and were sanded and varnished to a respectable and presentable shine. The gray cloth upholstery of the interior, which covers the seats, door panels, and headliner, does not appear to be worn or damaged. As for the refinished black undercarriage, engine bay, and green engine block, their condition is consistent with an older restoration and, while not perfectly detailed, are generally quite clean and of very respectable driver quality. Built by Durant after his brief exile from GM, this Star is a special part of the legend he founded.