As the American motoring industry exploded at the tail end of the 19th century, hundreds of automobile companies began cropping up in barns, garages, and factories across the country, with wildly varying degrees of success. The burgeoning industry attracted engineers from far and wide, with similarly variable talent. One of the more notably talented among them was Robert Craig Hupp. He developed his skills at Oldsmobile, Ford, and Regal before breaking out on his own in 1909 when he produced the first Hupmobile. That first car—the Model 20—boasted a 20-horsepower four-cylinder engine set in an 86-inch wheelbase chassis with a neat and attractive runabout body. The sliding gear transmission and high-tension magneto were features not typically seen on a lower-priced model and immediately boosted Hupmobile’s reputation for value. More than 1,600 cars left the Detroit, Michigan factory in the first year, and that number swelled to over 5,300 for the second year.

By the time the Model 32 debuted in 1912, Hupmobile was well-established, and the new flagship model was a show of confidence from the Detroit marque. The Model 32 was more powerful than any previous model, with a 32-horsepower four-cylinder engine on a 106-inch wheelbase chassis. Hupmobile’s mid-market stature did not discourage them from implementing innovative ideas, and one of the more forward-thinking features of the Model 32 was its lightweight yet sturdy all-steel body, produced by railway carriage builders Hale & Kilburn. Despite Robert Craig Hupp’s departure from the firm, Hupmobile continued its upward trajectory, selling over 12,000 examples of the outstanding Model 32 in 1913.

Offered in what is believed to be unrestored, original condition, this 1913 Hupmobile Model 32 Touring is brimming with charming character. This attractive and rarely seen five-passenger touring car is well-preserved, with an authentic weathered look. The numerous details include distinct high-mounted headlamps, cowl lamps, passenger sideview mirror, running board-mounted acetylene tank, and period accessory Boyco fluid canteens. The large-diameter artillery wheels and close-fitting fenders give the Model 32 a slightly underslung look, which, combined with the low-cut touring body, imparts a sporty character.

The black upholstery is similarly aged yet remarkably intact for being more than a century old. Interior appointments include dash-mounted spark and throttle levers, wood-rimmed steering wheel, Stewart speedometer, and a horn.