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1948 Tucker 48
4dr Sedan
6-cyl. 335cid/166hp 2bbl
#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good
$1,250,000*
0%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Jan 2025
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1948 Tucker 48 stats
Highest sale
$2,915,000
Lowest sale
$246,750
Most recent sale
$1,380,000
Sales
27
Photos
54 photosImages may not reflect selected vehicle.
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Model overview
Model description
Entrepreneur Preston Tucker envisioned a revolutionary new car, one that would incorporate cutting-edge technological advancements and modern styling into an economical automobile—the Tucker 48.
Built in an enormous Chicago plant, the Tucker was originally engineered to utilize a 589-c.i., fuel-injected, six-cylinder boxer engine that was constructed from aluminum. This engine, however, encountered several problems during development and ultimately only produced fewer than 90 hp, which was too little for the car. In its stead, a 335-c.i. air-cooled helicopter engine (converted to water-cooling for road use) was installed instead. The engine produced 166 hp and 372 lb-ft of torque, and could propel the car to a top speed of nearly 120 mph. The car’s initial torque converter designs were also altered to use a pre-select transmission.
The 48’s engine was rear-mounted, giving the car a wholly unique fastback appearance (penned by Alex S. Tremulis of Auburn/Cord/Duesenberg fame). The car also had a distinct, swiveling center-mounted headlight that ensured nobody would mistake the Tucker for anything else on the road.
Besides being rear-engined, other advanced features of the car included four-wheel disc brakes, all-independent suspension, a pop-out windshield, and a padded dashboard.
In all, 51 Tuckers were built before Preston Tucker became entangled in a Securities and Exchange Commission investigation. The investigation ultimately ended in acquittal, but not before Tucker’s reputation was indelibly tarnished. As a result, the company folded and became one of the more interesting stories of American automotive lore in the process.
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Common Questions
The value of a 1948 Tucker 48 can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $1,250,000 for a 1948 Tucker 48 in good condition with average spec.
The highest selling price of a 1948 Tucker 48 at auction over the last three years was $1,870,000. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.
The lowest selling price of a 1948 Tucker 48 at auction over the last three years was $1,380,000. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.
In the last three years there have been 2 1948 Tucker 48s sold at public auction.
The most recent auction sale of a 1948 Tucker 48 was $1,380,000 on August 15, 2024 by Broad Arrow Auctions.
Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.
Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.
Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.
The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.