Image via Broad Arrow Auctions
Much has been said about the Tucker brand and who or what was behind its demise. But one of the most influential voices in the public exchange on the topic has been George Lucas. While the 1988 film was directed by Francis Ford Coppola, it was Lucas who brought it out of pre-production stasis in 1986 when he joined up as a producer.
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In other words, without Lucas’ help, the film might never have reached the public. Instead, it became a hit at theaters, educating people about the iconic cars and the man behind them. That in turn helped boost Tucker prices.
So it shouldn’t be a shock to learn Lucas owned a 1948 Tucker, Chassis 1003 to be specific. That very car is queued up to cross the block during Broad Arrow Auctions’ Monterey Jet Center event coming up in August.
Considering a mere 51 Tuckers ever rolled off the production line, whether by Big Three sabotage or a combination of other factors, this one is the third made. Just like when it was new, it wears 600 Royal Maroon over 940 Biege, a popular pairing for the few who purchased these unusual cars.
Experts have determined this is a numbers-matching ride and features a water-cooled engine, one of only four to have such an innovation. With a 128-inch wheelbase it’s one of only nine in existence. Even among rarities, it is a rarity.
As one of the first Tuckers made, irarities,, modified Cord transaxle and a Cord-style pre-selector shifter. It’s the first production vehicle to feature a filler panel between the front bumper and body and a production-style firewall.
The while and silver accents on the dash were only used in a handful of other Tuckers. George Lucas picked a beautiful Tucker to own.
This is the kind of vehicle which will afford the new owner access to exclusive events and the chance to capture many awards for properly showing it. But there is of course a high price of admission to such circles. In this case, Broad Arrow Auctions estimates the top bid will be between $1,500,000 and 2,000,000 in Monterey.
See the official lot listing and learn more about this classic car owned by a celebrity here.
Images via Broad Arrow Auctions
