The 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. |
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.
