1948 Davis Divan

UnclassifiedOn Display

Nov 1

Written By Andrew Summers

Quick Specs

Hercules 4-cylinder engine, paired with a Ford transmission.
60 hp (claimed.)
100 mph (claimed.)
13 (est. passenger cars.)

Too Good to be True

Flush with money from achieving success in the used car business, Gary Davis was in good company in the optimistic days immediately after World War II. As eager Americans, who were weary of wartime limitations on gas, tires, and even cars themselves, headed to car dealers to spend the money they had earned during the war. Derived from a prewar design built by legendary race car builder Frank Kurtis for millionaire playboy Joel Thorne, the three-wheeled Davis Divan was touted as the car of the future. It was powered by a Hercules industrial engine with a Ford transmission.

The press was eager and hopeful, but problems including material shortages and a severe lack of capital prevented Gary Davis from realizing his dream of mass producing his car. By May of 1948, he was under investigation for fraud by the Los Angeles district attorney, and in November his offices were raided and company business and financial records were seized.

The exact number of Davis vehicles produced is unknown. To date, 13 passenger versions and three additional “jeep”-style utility prototypes, have been accounted for. Bearing serial number 482E49, the Petersen Automotive Museum’s 1948 Davis is the fourth passenger car built and one of very few with a continuous ownership history.

Collection of the Petersen Automotive Museum

This vehicle is featured on the Third Floor.

1948 Davis Divan Gallery

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