1939 American Bantam Roadster

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Raleigh Classic Car Auctions have built a pristine reputation over 26 years of live auctions, as the go-to for the best-of-the-best offerings for car collectors and enthusiasts. Regionally trusted and nationally recognized, Raleigh Classic Car Auctions continues to find low-mile, original examples with documentation annually. The September Special is an offering of 38 premium quality, low-mile and desirable, domestic lots from three private estates offered entirely without reserve. All vehicles are available for in-person inspection at The Raleigh Classic Showroom in Zebulon, NC; 9:00am-4:00pm Monday-Friday: 9/15/25-10/3/25 or by appointment.

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The American Bantam Car Company’s history will forever be entwined with World War II. The company’s founders, Roy Evans and William A. Ward Jr., purchased the assets of the bankrupt American Austin Car Company in 1935. Following incorporating American Bantam Car Company in Pennsylvania, launching itself through a public fundraising campaign. The first Bantam roadsters and delivery vans debuted in 1937, and continued until 1943, until its production shifted to serve World War II efforts.

Although The American Bantam Car Company would never make vehicles again, it should be noted that it is credited with inventing the original jeep. It would build 2,675 jeeps from 1940-43, and was notably the most fuel-efficient version of the utility vehicle. However, because Ford and Willys-Overland could produce the jeep in bulk, the military contract would be awarded to the much larger manufacturers, leaving American Bantam to make jeep trailers. Following the war, American Bantam continued producing consumer trailers until it was purchased by American Rolling Mills in 1956.

This 1939 American Bantam Roadster was reportedly owned by the Bantam Club president, underwent a restoration in the 1990s, and has remained in collector ownership for the subsequent 31 years. Recent servicing includes a carburetor overhaul and fuel system maintenance, complimenting a restoration that, despite its age, still shows the proud history of The American Bantam Car Company well.

Highlights

• Offered from The Raleigh Classic Collection

• 1 of 1,229 reported 1939 American Bantam Roadsters produced

• Previously owned and restored by the Bantam Club president

• Long-term ownership under a private collection over the past 31 years

• Powered by a 50ci inline four-cylinder paired to a three-speed manual transmission

• Two-tone Burgandy and Red exterior over leather tan interior

Features

• Distinct American Bantam hood ornament

• Bantam badging

• Fog lights

• Dual spotlights

• Color matched dash

• Custom two-tone swirl gearshift knob

• Canvas top

Known Imperfections

• Some paint cracks along driver side rear panel, trunk, both doors doors, and along hood

• Dents along rear passenger side fender

Ownership History

This car is from one of three private estates, comprising the September Special of the Raleigh Classic Car Collection. This 1939 American Bantam Roadster was reportedly owned by the Bantam Club president and underwent a restoration in the 1990s and has remained in collector ownership for the subsequent 31 years.