The Tucker 48 was the brainchild of Preston Tucker, who was determined to develop an advanced car in the post World War II years. The car's fundamental design was forward thinking but perhaps not as original as commonly believed. As a large sedan with a rear mounted engine already existed in the cars from Tatra. These cars that seem to be the foundation for what Tucker envisioned as the next great automobile for America possessed many of the features Tucker wanted in his Torpedo. Tucker Torpedo was the name used during development but the car was named Tucker 48 for its release year, 1948.
The Tucker 48 did have its share of innovations and was originally designed with a center placed steering wheel and front fenders that would turn with the wheels. A horizontally opposed air-cooled engine with hydraulically adjusted valves, an automatic transmission called the "Tuckermatic", and disc brakes were also planned. Unfortunately none of these Features made it to the production models due to cost constraints.
A Franklin helicopter engine which was modified with liquid cooling was used. The transmission also ended up being from another manufacturer, a redesigned front wheel drive Cord unit. The moving fenders were replaced with the "Cyclops Eye", which moved with the steering was designed as a safety feature. Other safety elements incorporated into the design were padded dashboard, a windshield that pulled out, and all controls were grouped in front of the driver for quick access. All independent suspension and tube shocks made it to production and combined with a low center of gravity contributed to a stable and good handling car, despite its 4,200 pounds.
Specifications:
Engine: Horizontally opposed 6 cyl
Displacement: 335 cu. in.
Horsepower: 166
Torque: 372 lbs/ft
Transmission: 4 speed manual
Weight: 4235 lbs
Wheelbase: 128 in.
Fuel Economy: 25 mpg
Top Speed: 120 mph
0-60 mph: 10 sec.
Assembled in: Chicago, IL
Number Built: 51
*On loan at the San Diego Automotive Museum