The Frederick Moscovics-designed “Safety Stutz” chassis arrived in the late 1920s, and in 1927 it was paired with his new 287 cubic-inch “Vertical Eight” engine. The combination proved a critical success, and a sporting one—the new Series AA took the AAA-sanctioned Stock Car crown in 1927, winning every race it entered. A surprise 2nd place overall at the 1928 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieved by a French-campaigned Stutz BB Blackhawk just behind the Bentley 4 ½-Litre of Woolf Barnato, earned the marque further accolades worldwide for its impressive reliability and performance.

Inspired by Stutz’s storied competition history, this 1930 Model M Boattail Speedster is a fabulous one-off creation modeled after the Stutz “Jones Special” Indy car of 1930. Using a 1930 Model M engine and chassis missing its original coachwork as the basis, it was thoroughly reimagined by a devoted Stutz enthusiast for long-distance rallies. The original intention was to run the car in The Great Race, though it ultimately never entered the event.

The overhead-cam engine was completely rebuilt from top to bottom. Records show the cylinder block was align-bored and decked, and internal updates include Packard rods, new bearings, and a modified high-capacity oil pump. At the top end, the cylinder head received new valve guides, and the cam was ground to custom specs by Delta Camshaft. A custom-fabricated top-end oiling system improves lubrication at sustained high RPMs. A ground and lightened flywheel was modified to accommodate a modern diaphragm-style clutch, paired with a heavy-duty Ford four-speed synchromesh gearbox and a custom Ford nine-inch rear axle built with all new bearings and gears. The Model M suspension was restored and left standard, preserving the car’s original handling characteristics.

Patrick Kelso of Pennsylvania created the body from aluminum and steel, and the superbly detailed form mimics the Jones Special’s signature cut-down cockpit and rounded streamlined tail treatment. To better suit the rigors of open-road rallying, it features cycle fenders, a folding top, and windscreen. The restored wire wheels are wrapped in high-performance Excelsior blackwall tires, contributing to the purposeful and aggressive stance. Details like the canvas fender skirts, integrated trunk, and fully operational roadster top highlight the body’s thoughtful and well-planned construction.

While the Stutz was built for competitive historic rallying, no corners were cut in making it a visually striking motorcar. As a testament to its quality, it won a Palmetto Award at the 2016 Hilton Head Concours d’Elegance shortly after its restoration. This enormously charming and wholly unique Stutz Model M is perfect for entry into a wide variety of competitive and casual driving events, including The Great Race and more.