1910 American Underslung
"Traveler Toy Tonneau"
Best In Class at the 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
Unique “over-frame” axle placement for lower center of gravity to compensate for the large wheels
A high-performance touring car of the Brass Era
The 1910 American Underslung Traveler Toy Tonneau stands out as one of the most innovative and eye-catching American cars from the Brass Era. Even after more than a hundred years, it is still admired for its forward-thinking engineering. It was named the best surviving American Underslung and won Best in Class at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, after completing the Tour d’Elegance. Restored by Brian Joseph’s Classic & Exotic Service in Troy, Michigan, this car is a great example of America’s early groundbreaking automobile designs.
Most cars at the time sat high above their axles, which made them tall, narrow, and sometimes unstable on rough roads or sharp turns. The American Underslung changed this by running its frame under and between the axles, which lowered the body and gave it one of the lowest centers of gravity of any car then. This difference was easy to see. While other cars looked upright and like carriages, the Underslung looked low, wide, and sporty. Its elegant shape was widely admired, and many people thought it was the most beautiful American car of its time.
The Underslung also showed off the fast-paced technology changes happening in the car industry during the Brass Era. This car has a mix of Gray & Davis acetylene headlamps, electric spotlights, and electric tail lamps, showing the shift from gas-powered to electric lighting. With these advanced lights, along with its modern chassis and strong engine, the American Underslung was one of the most high-tech cars that wealthy buyers could get.
The Traveler Toy Tonneau’s body style made it stand out even more. As an elegant open touring car, it offered plenty of space for passengers but kept the sporty feel that made the Underslung special. Its low seats, smooth lines, and long hood made it look fast even when parked. It is powered by a 476 cubic inch 4-cylinder engine with 3 speed transmission. When compared with other performance cars of the era, Mercer and National offered larger 6-cylinder power and often fared better in competitions.
This car’s history is just as impressive as its design. It was once owned by Walter Seeley, who is known as the top expert on American Underslung cars and a leading historian of the brand. Later, it became part of the collections of Joel Finn, a respected automotive historian and founder of the New England Auto Museum, and collector Richard King. Each owner helped keep the car’s history and originality intact, making sure it stayed one of the best surviving examples of its kind.
The American Underslung is fast, stylish, and truly unique, earning its reputation as the supercar of the Brass Era. Its groundbreaking engineering, rare status, and impressive history have made it one of the most important American cars ever made.
Specifications
Engine: 476 cu in 4-cylinder T-Head, 3-Speed Progressive Sliding Pinion Transmission, 15” Cone Clutch
Horsepower: 50 @ 1200 rpm
Chassis: Semi elliptical springs front and rear; Rear wheel drum brakes; 40” wheels for greater ground clearance: Front and Rear axles mounted above the frame assembly (Under slung chassis)
Top Speed: 75 mph
Weight: 2750 lbs