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1948 Tucker 48 Sedan
Tucker 48
1948 · sedan
Rarity Score
9/10 - Extremely Rare, as only 51 examples of the original Tucker 48 were ever built.
Spot Difficulty
10/10 - Extremely difficult to spot in the wild since only 47 survive, primarily housed in prestigious museums or private collections.
Engine & Performance
Engine: Franklin-derived 5.5-liter (335 cu in) flat-6, water-cooled, rear-mounted, producing approximately 166 horsepower
Transmission & Drivetrain: Tucker Powermatic pre-selector 4-speed manual transmission with rear-wheel drive
Performance: 0-60 mph in approximately 10 seconds, top speed around 120 mph, curb weight roughly 4,250 lbs.
Exterior
Metallic blue paint, distinctive aerodynamic fastback body style with split windshield, integrated fenders, central 'cyclops eye' third headlight that turns with the steering wheel, and chrome bumpers.
Interior Features
Spartan yet innovative interior with a padded dashboard for safety, centered steering wheel placement relative to the driver's pod, push-button controls, and forward-opening doors for easy entry.
Condition Assessment
Fair, showing surface dust, minor blemishes, and storage wear typical of a vintage toy model or preserved display piece.
Condition Issues: Dust accumulation across the body panels, potential light paint fading, and minor shelf wear.
Estimated Mileage: Not applicable for scale model / Exempt for rare classic
Historical Significance
A masterpiece of independent automotive engineering and post-WWII innovation, pioneered safety features like a padded dash, seatbelts, and a directional center headlight, though corporate controversy cut production short.
Notable Features
Famous 'Cyclops eye' middle headlight that pivots up to 10 degrees with the front wheels to illuminate corners.
Production Numbers
51 total cars ever completed (prototype plus 50 production units), with 47 known survivors remaining today.
Valuation
Estimated Market Value: Real vehicle: $1,500,000 - $2,500,000+; Scale model: $50 - $200 depending on manufacturer
Auction Estimate: Real vehicle: $1,800,000 - $3,000,000
Maintenance Recommendations
Gentle dusting with a micro-fiber cloth; keep away from direct sunlight to preserve the blue metallic finish.
Fun Facts
Often called the 'Tucker Torpedo' although the official name was Tucker 48. Preston Tucker's revolutionary car was the subject of the acclaimed 1988 Francis Ford Coppola film 'Tucker: The Man and His Dream' starring Jeff Bridges. Despite having rear-engine placement, it featured a low center of gravity and groundbreaking safety glass that popped out on impact.
Identified on: 10/12/2026
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