The Stutz legacy holds a prominent place in American automotive lore, surviving the Great Depression through motorsport triumphs and innovative engineering. Revived in 1968 by James O’Donnell and Virgil Exner, the brand aimed to create a distinctive luxury car. Exner, renowned for his influential designs, including the Chrysler 300, envisioned a series of Revival Cars, including the Stutz Blackhawk Coupe.
This Italian-American hybrid, reminiscent of the opulent Dual Ghia, featured a bespoke body crafted by Carrozzeria Padane in Modena, Italy. Despite its luxurious appeal, the Blackhawk’s costly production process strained finances. Transitioning to using GM donor car substructures in 1972 compromised Exner’s original design proportions, rendering the 1971 models exceptionally rare.
Exner’s bold styling, evident in the distinctive grille and flamboyant tail, attracted celebrity owners like Elvis Presley, who exclusively drove Stutzes. The Duplex sedan, a stretched version of the Blackhawk, further exemplified Exner’s flair and set new standards for luxury. Stutz, with its unique and stylish offerings, remains an icon of exclusivity from that era.
Photo Source: RM Sotheby’s
