Are you one of the many people who have never heard of the Tucker? Or maybe, you’ve come across an old 1988 movie on Netflix that tells the story of the American automaker Tucker Car Corporation and its founder, Preston Tucker?  Tucker was a former worker for several car companies: Cadillac, Ford, Studebaker, Chrysler, Pierce-Arrow and Dodge.

Called “the car of the future of the 1940s”, the Tucker was an ambitious project from the visionary spirit of a man who was already turning his ideas towards revolutionary road safety and prevention solutions.  On top of it, his famous engine that he wanted to place in the back.

Unfortunately, several developmental complexities and numerous design delays harmed the reputation of the company.  The company was accused by the stock market supervisory commission of false advertising, attempted fraud and scam.

Tucker accused General Motors, Ford and Chrysler of sabotage attempts.  Innocent but riddled with debt, Tucker had to declare bankruptcy. He died in 1956 at the age of 53.

Between 1947 and 1949, 51 cars were built and, in 2009, history was rewritten following the unveiling of the 52nd Tucker.  This time it was a convertible, a project from the restorers of the Benchmark Classics who started from a chassis built in 1948.

Note that American directors, producers and screenwriters George Lucas and Francis Ford Coppola each own one of the 51 cars produced by Tucker.  Mr. Coppola. who is a big fan. owns two of them.  He also directed the film “Tucker: The Man and His Dream”.

An inspiring story that you must absolutely watch. You can also watch on YouTube a documentary which portrays the man Tucker in all his originality.

Jackie Beaudoin, Leclerc Insurance and Financial Services
Source: Auto 123