1913 American

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Among the early car manufacturers bearing the name “American,” the American Motors Company of Indianapolis, Indiana stands out. This small yet impactful firm made a striking entrance but faded away within a mere eight years. Most renowned for its distinctive model, this iteration of American Motors is commonly known as the American Underslung.

The Underslung chassis, conceptualized by Fred Tone in 1907, revolutionized car design by positioning the suspension and axles above the frame, allowing for a significantly lower ride height. Tone was among the pioneers in recognizing the advantages of a low center of gravity for improved handling, a trait extolled in contemporary advertisements. The 1913 Scout, a two-seat runabout roadster featuring a 30 hp four-cylinder engine, serves as a prime example. Introduced as a junior model with a lower price point and a smaller L-head engine, the Scout aimed to bolster sales compared to its larger counterparts, such as the 60 hp touring cars. However, despite these efforts, it was too little, too late, and the American Motors Company shuttered its operations in 1914.

Believed to be one of only five produced in 1913, this Scout embodies a rare piece of automotive history.