We all have cars we’re unreasonably in love with, and I’m not alone in having my buttons pushed by the original Hupmobile, the 1909 Model 20. I don’t recall where I came across this February 1965 sketch by Dick Teague, but the designer owned a number of Brass Era cars, and his love is evident in every line.
The Model 20 was quite successful, with more than 1,600 built in the first year for Hupp, runabouts all, and production skyrocketed after that. They’re not terribly rare, swift or valuable today; you’ll pay a more than for a Model T, but without the aftermarket support.
But look at the thing. It’s just car, pure car. Jaunty, simple and useful. I look at Teague’s sketch when I’m feeling down and feel better.
John Kruse tells me the one Worldwide has, at no reserve, in Houston this weekend comes from a local (Seabrook) collector. All the cars in his small collection are regularly driven, and while this wasn’t restored, it’s ready to roll.
Owning one is a lifelong dream – if you buy it, drive it often and maybe once think of me.