The Martin, despite vigorous promotion, never went beyond three prototypes. Before you is a one-of-a-kind aerodynamic vehicle built by Martin Aircraft Company of Garden City, New York. Martin’s concept was to create a four-seater streamlined car along jaray principles. Notice the pontoon-shaped underbody, fully covered rear wheels, and a deep-sloping front with the body tapering toward the rear. It is powered by a 4 cylinder, water cooled rear engine and has airplane-type suspension–which means no springs. The aluminum body has one door that opens into the back seat. This Martin was built for Air Force General William “Billy” Mitchell of World War I fame. The Martin was presented at the 1932 National Automobile Show in New York but the Great Depression was detrimental to the Martin.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Martin Aeroplane Factory
Country of Origin: U.S.A.
Drivetrain Configuration: Rear engine, rear wheel drive
Engine: 4 cylinder continental
Transmission: 3 speed
Top Speed: 107 miles per hour
Year of Production: 1928
Number Produced: 1
Original Cost: $17,000
A Note About the Display of Our Collection
Thank you for viewing our collection online! Please note that our collection contains over 330 cars and motorcycles though we only have room to display approximately 150 at a time. Therefore, the item you are viewing may not be on display when you visit the museum in person.
