
The remaining Tucker 48 cars are owned by a mix of museums, private collectors, and institutions, with approximately 47 of the original 51 produced vehicles known to survive today. Notable owners include the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, and prominent collectors like David Cammack. These cars are highly sought-after due to their historical significance, often fetching millions at auction.
The Tucker 48, also known as the Tucker Torpedo, was produced in 1948 by Preston Tucker's company, with only 51 units made before the company folded. Today, most surviving cars are preserved in public displays or private garages, with ownership details often tracked by enthusiast groups. The rarity and story behind these vehicles—including innovations like a rear-mounted engine and pop-out safety glass—make them icons of automotive history.
Below is a table listing some known Tucker 48 cars and their current or recent owners, based on public records and automotive databases. This data highlights the distribution, though ownership can change due to sales or donations.
| Tucker Car Serial Number | Current or Recent Owner | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1001 | Smithsonian Institution | Washington, D.C., USA | On permanent display |
| #1003 | Petersen Automotive Museum | Los Angeles, CA, USA | Part of collection |
| #1014 | David Cammack | Virginia, USA | Private collector |
| #1026 | Lane Motor Museum | Nashville, TN, USA | Museum exhibit |
| #1039 | Canadian Automotive Museum | Oshawa, ON, Canada | International holding |
| #1042 | Private Collector | Unknown, USA | Occasionally auctioned |
| #1047 | Gilmore Car Museum | Hickory Corners, MI, USA | Historical display |
| #1050 | Blackhawk Museum | Danville, CA, USA | Rotating exhibit |
| #1051 | Private Collector | Florida, USA | Rarely seen publicly |
| #1019 | Museum of American Speed | Lincoln, NE, USA | Focus on innovation |
For enthusiasts, locating a Tucker often involves monitoring auctions or connecting with clubs like the Tucker Automobile Club of America. Values have soared, with some cars selling for over $3 million, reflecting their status as blue-chip collectibles. Preservation efforts ensure these pieces of automotive heritage remain accessible for education and appreciation.

I’ve been into classic cars for years, and from what I’ve picked up, most Tucker cars are tucked away in museums or owned by serious collectors. I saw one at a show once—it had this unique vibe you don’t see anymore. They’re like ghosts; you hear about them but rarely spot one on the road. If you’re curious, check out big museums or auction sites; that’s where they pop up.

In my line of work with automotive archives, I’ve handled records showing Tucker 48s are dispersed across institutions. For example, we have documentation placing several with museums like the Smithsonian, which aids in historical preservation. These cars are treated as artifacts, with ownership often stable due to donation agreements. It’s a small world; maybe 10-15 are in private hands, but museums hold the majority for public access.


