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The 1948 Tucker Torpedo

The Machine

The Tucker automobile had many advanced, innovative features, from its fastback shape to its swiveling center headlight and independent four-wheel suspension. Enhanced passenger safety was one of the Tucker's principal features. It had a pop-out windshield, padded dashboard, and a place where the front-seat passenger could crouch in the event of a collision.

The one car never intended for public road use was unofficially dubbed, the "Tin Goose". The Prototype that was unveiled at the Chicago factory.

I have recently found more pictures and will add them soon.

Model Numbers 1002 to 1006

There are not photographs of every model available, but you can find the current status of every car on the TACA website.

Model Numbers 1008 to 1035

Number 1023 was destroyed in a warehouse fire, and the remains were buried.

Let's see if you can find model number 1035 in this picture. This is nothing like "Where's Waldo".

Model Numbers 1036 to 1051

Number 1036 is living it up in Palm Springs at a aircraft museum.

Number 1039 has found a home in the Smithsonian in Washingtin D.C.

Number 1046 has undergone some non-factory changes. So much so, I consider this one lost as well. Full details are at the TACA site. I understand there may be hope though. A full restoration may very well be under way.

An interesting story about number 1051 is that it was completed outside the factory in the 1980's. It was purchased at an auction imcomplete, and was finished with leftover Tucker parts. For some, this one technically is not part of the original fifty (not including the tin goose).

There is a controversy that surrounds this next car. Both sides are standing firm. Is it the lost convertible, model number 1057? Is it a great fabrication? Whether it is a real Tucker or not, time and history will decide. Whether it is real or not, it still looks great.