1933 Stutz DV-32 Monte Carlo
One of the most intriguing American automobiles of the early 1930s was the Stutz DV-32 Monte Carlo. This luxurious sport sedan combined high performance with elegant styling, making it a standout among its peers.
The engine was the heart of this exceptional vehicle. It was a 322 cubic inch inline eight-cylinder powerplant featuring dual overhead camshafts and hemispherical combustion chambers.
With four valves per cylinder (32 in total), it produced an impressive 156 horsepower. This output rivaled that of the larger Duesenberg Model J engine in terms of horsepower per cubic inch.
Power from the engine was transmitted to the rear wheels through a Warner three-speed manual transmission. This drivetrain combination allowed the DV-32 Monte Carlo to reach speeds of up to 90 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest cars of its time.
The Monte Carlo body style was part of Stutz’s “Chateau Line” offerings. It was manufactured by the Weymann American Body Company of Indianapolis using a unique construction method.
The body featured a hardwood inner structure covered in layers of cotton batting and fabric. The outer layer was made of Zapron, a synthetic leather material. This design resulted in a lightweight and flexible body that reduced squeaks and rattles.
Later in production, Stutz offered the Monte Carlo with aluminum body panels as a special order option. This further reduced weight while improving durability compared to the Zapron-covered versions.
Today, only two aluminum-bodied 1933 DV-32 Monte Carlos are known to exist.
The exterior of the Monte Carlo was characterized by its low roofline and sleek profile. It featured an integrated luggage compartment within a smoothly curved tail section.
Some examples had a distinctive “false hood” design where the hood line extended all the way back to the windshield, creating an impression of length and power.
Inside, the Monte Carlo offered seating for five passengers. While specific interior details varied, Stutz automobiles of this era were known for their luxurious appointments and high-quality materials.
The DV-32 Monte Carlo had few direct competitors in the American market. Its combination of performance and luxury put it in a class with other high-end marques like Duesenberg and Packard, though each had its own unique characteristics.
Stutz produced approximately 200 DV-32 chassis in total across all body styles before the company ceased automobile production in 1935. This limited production run, combined with the Monte Carlo’s distinctive styling and advanced engineering, has made it a highly prized collector car.
Credit: RM Sotheby’s
