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The Stout Scarab Automobile [1]
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Date: 2023-01-14
The radical sedan concept which resulted in the Stout Scarab came from William Bushnell Stout who believed that lightweight and streamlined aircraft construction techniques could produce a faster and more economical automobile. According to the display in the Portland Art Museum:
“The Scarab’s interior was as striking as its exterior. The passenger compartment, positioned within the car’s wheelbase was extremely spacious. While the driver’s seat and the wide rear bench seat were fixed, the other seats could be repositioned so the front could accommodate three passengers across, or moved so passengers could sit around a small table. Stout’s practical, comfortable, and versatile configuration anticipated the minivan we know today.”
The unique beetle-like shape was designed by John Tjaarda. It was named Scarab for this shape and the fact that ancient Egypt inspired the Art Deco design world.
The Scarab was expensive--$5,000 as compared with $635 for a Ford four-door sedan—and failed to find customers. Only six Scarabs were built and five survive today.
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