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AMERICAN BANTAM 1938-1940
American Bantam bodies were streamlined
Advertising claimed 60 mpg for the 1938 Bantam line, including this
coupe.
The 1938 Bantam roadster is cute from
above.
1938 Bantam station wagons used maple
bodies.
American Austin Car Company president Roy S. Evans
reorganized his firm in 1936 as the American Bantam Car
Company. Mechanical improvements meant his cars were no
longer licensed versions of the original Austin Seven. Thomas
Hibbard redesigned the bodies and production was anticipated for
1936, but financial setbacks delayed introduction.
The delay allowed Evans to solicit new streamlined designs from Alexis deSahknoffsky. American Austin body shell stampings were retained, but fenders, grilles, wheels, interiors and other details were updated. New body styles were added, too.
Unfortunately, a significant market for "baby cars" would not develop in America for two more decades. Only about 6,700 Bantams were built before civilian production ceased in June, 1940, to make way for military work. (Continue)
The delay allowed Evans to solicit new streamlined designs from Alexis deSahknoffsky. American Austin body shell stampings were retained, but fenders, grilles, wheels, interiors and other details were updated. New body styles were added, too.
Unfortunately, a significant market for "baby cars" would not develop in America for two more decades. Only about 6,700 Bantams were built before civilian production ceased in June, 1940, to make way for military work. (Continue)
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