Welcome to Stutz Motor Company
Racing Heritage and the Iconic Bearcat Model
The founding of Ideal Motor Car Company in 1911 marked the inception of a legendary automotive legacy. Spearheaded by Harry C. Stutz and Henry F. Campbell, the company’s initial success stemmed from a remarkable feat in the Indianapolis 500, where a Stutz-built car secured the 11th position in under five weeks.
Craftsmanship. Luxury. Legacy.
Where Style and Performace Collide
Stutz has been, since 1912, a renowned and revered maker of luxury motorcars. The STUTZ brand is iconic…as American as apple pie, and with a history deep in the detail of American automotive excellence and accomplishment.
In Hollywood of the 1920s’ and 30s’, Gary Cooper could be seen cruising about town in his glorious Stutz Bearcat. In New York, the Great Gatsby himself, F. Scott Fitzgerald was often sighted speeding back and forth from the city to the Hamptons in his luxurious Bearcat, his wild and fun loving wife Zelda at his side. Nationally famous society/gossip columnist Walter Winchell parked his Bearcat prominently outside the Plaza Hotel in New York. In 1933, the Stutz Bearcat was the first car to ever be imprinted on a US postage stamp.
– Carly Pinkwater, Indy Automotive Analyst (2016)
A Chronicle of Ideal Motor Car Company's History
Ideal Motor Car Company, organized in June 1911 by Harry C. Stutz with his colleague, Henry F. Campbell, began building Stutz cars in Indianapolis in 1911. They set this business up after a car built by Stutz in under five weeks and entered in the name of his Stutz Auto Parts Co. was placed 11th in the Indianapolis 500 earning it the slogan “the car that made good in a day”. Ideal built what amounted to copies of the racecar with added fenders and lights and sold them with the model name Stutz Bearcat, Bear Cat being the name of the actual racecar.
The last car Elvis ever drove
In what became one of the most famous paparazzi images of all time, a chance photograph taken at the gates of Graceland was in fact the last official photograph of Elvis Presley only hours before his death in 1977.
In that final photo, Elvis was behind the wheel of a 1973 Stutz Blackhawk – reportedly one of his favorite cars and was heavily customized. Elvis can be seen waving to the photographers stationed at the gates of Graceland as he returned from a late-night visit to the dentist.
– Trent Nikolic, Drive (2022)
Heritage of Excellence
With roots tracing back to our founding in June 1911, we boast a rich legacy of automotive excellence.
Innovation at the Core
Expect cutting-edge technology, timeless design, and a driving experience that exceeds expectations.
Iconic Models
Our commitment to replicating the racecar's prowess ensures that every model we offer carries the spirit of a true automotive icon.
Racing Pedigree
Born from the triumphs of the Indianapolis 500, our journey began with a car that made history in under five weeks.
Testimonial
A Seamless Journey into Automotive Excellence
Embark on a transformative experience with Ideal Motor Car Company, where every interaction is meticulously designed for a seamless journey into automotive excellence.