American Austins.
American Austin Celebrates 75th Anniversary: American Austin: Adaptations of Austin's hearty seven design were successful in France, (Rosengart) and Germany (Dixie). Austin hoped to find similar success in the United States. By 1926, only 40 Sevens had been imported to the US. So, Austin sent Richard Papelian to New York City with a new yellow and black Seven saloon. Papelian drove 680 miles to Austin finally found a willing partner when in 1929 the American Austin Car Company was incorporated and the plant opened in Butler, Pennsylvania. Mechanically, the American Austins were similar to the original sevens - although the engine configuration was mirrored and the driver steered from the left side. The bodies were re-designed to fit American tastes by Russian Count Alexis deSakhnoffsky. The 1930 American "Bantam" models included a 5-window coupe, a 3 window coupe delivery, and a roadster. Additional models were offered over the next few years, including a pick-up, a panel truck, and a high-top van. Unfortunately, the venture was launched simultaneously with the Great Depression. Few were willing to buy a baby Austin when the same money could bring home a full-sized Ford. Less than 20,000 cars were built before American Austin ceased production in 1934. American Bantam: By late 1937, American Austin President Roy S. Evans had purchased the The First Jeeps: At the same time, with only 13 employees on the payroll, Bantam secured a Our thanks to - 26th February 2006. Dear Sir, I read with interest your article on American Austins especially as it was my grandfather who drove the Austin to Detroit in 1926. One small point his name was Richard Papelian not Peter. I would be interested to know if you have any more information or pictures of his journey and indeed how he came to be involved with your company. Carolyn Starren. Does anyone have information for Carolyn? If so, then please get in contact,
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American Austin Celebrates 75th Anniversary: Austin Enthusiasts in America will also participate in the Austin Centenary by celebrating American Austin 75th Anniversary in Butler, Pennsylvania, USA from July 18-21st. For details please contact the American Austin Club at American Austin: Adaptations of Austin's hearty seven design were successful in France, (Rosengart) and Germany (Dixie). Austin hoped to find similar success in the United States. By 1926, only 40 Sevens had been imported to the US. So, Austin sent Richard Papelian to New York City with a new yellow and black Seven saloon. Papelian drove 680 miles to Austin finally found a willing partner when in 1929 the American Austin Car Company was incorporated and the plant opened in Butler, Pennsylvania. Mechanically, the American Austins were similar to the original sevens - although the engine configuration was mirrored and the driver steered from the left side. The bodies were re-designed to fit American tastes by Russian Count Alexis deSakhnoffsky. The 1930 American "Bantam" models included a 5-window coupe, a 3 window coupe delivery, and a roadster. Additional models were offered over the next few years, including a pick-up, a panel truck, and a high-top van. Unfortunately, the venture was launched simultaneously with the Great Depression. Few were willing to buy a baby Austin when the same money could bring home a full-sized Ford. Less than 20,000 cars were built before American Austin ceased production in 1934.
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