Carter Town Shopper – 1942

At the outset of World War II, as American automobile factories were switching from making cars to making tanks, planes, jeeps, and munitions, a few independent car companies remained in production. When the Carter Town Shopper was introduced in 1942, it was marketed mainly to women as a low-cost, two-seater errand runner, a car that could ease the burden of home life while the husband was overseas. As gasoline was heavily rationed for the war effort, the Town Shopper’s 12hp, one-cylinder, four-stroke engine achieved around 45 miles per gallon, making it even more attractive to buyers.

Specifications:
Manufacturer: Carter Motor Corporation
Country of Origin: United States
Drivetrain Configuration: Front engine, rear wheel drive
Engine: Air-cooled, one cylinder, four stroke, 12 hp
Transmission: Centrifugal clutch
Top Speed: 45 mph
Years of Production: 1942-1943
Number Produced: Very few
Original Cost: $595