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1935 Stout Scarab

Stout Scarab

This image showcases the bench seat, table, and single chair found in the back of the Stout ScarabThe Scarab was the brainchild of William Stout, an automotive and aviation designer and engineer. The Scarab’s uni-body construction and rear-engine placement allows for an expansive interior space. The interior arrangement foreshadowed today’s minivan and features movable seats with a folding table. On its hood is the ancient Egyptian motif of a Scarab beetle, a symbol of regeneration to the ancient Egyptians. During the Art-Deco movement of the 1920s and 1930s, Egyptian motifs were a common design element.

Stout advertised that the Scarab would be sold “by invitation to a selected list” and its price, $5,000, (about $90,000 today) ensured exclusivity. Just nine were built, and it is estimated five remain in existence today.

Country of Origin
Engine
Horsepower
Number Built
United States V8, 221 C.I. (Ford) 85 Nine

Exhibited courtesy of the Detroit Historical Society, Detroit, Michigan

Did you know?
This Scarab was owned by the Wrigley family (of Wrigley chewing gum and Chicago Cubs fame) and is in all-original condition.

Stout Scarab

About this Series

Streamlined: Style on Motion was on display at the Museum in 2019.  This series of articles comes for the displays from that exhibition.

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