Car collectors and enthusiasts will soon have the opportunity to own a black 1933 Essex (Hudson) Terraplane 8, the car that was known as the notorious John Dillinger’s favorite car to steal and own.
The car is owned by the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority and has lived inside the John Dillinger Museum at the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond since it was purchased in 1996. The museum has since closed its Hammond location and is relocating to Crown Point.
This Essex Terraplane 8 appeared in the Johnny Depp movie, "Public Enemies." It can be seen on the DVD in chapter two from 00:12:06 through 00:12:18.
Speros A. Batistatos, president and CEO of the South Shore CVA, explained that to the bureau’s knowledge, everything is original except the engine. The car has a three-speed manual transmission, straight eight (8) engine 94 HP, "wet" clutch, four doors and eight-window coach. The wheel base is 113 inches.
The South Shore CVA is the third owner of the car, and estimates its value between $20,000 and $27,000. A reserve of $18,500 has been set for the auction. The car will be sold as is.
The auction will begin at noon on Saturday, May 2, in front of the north entrance of the Crown Point Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Square.
Interested bidders who would like to view the car prior to the auction must schedule an appointment by calling 219-554-2226 or emailing peggy@southshorecva.com. Photos of the car may also be viewed at www.dillingermuseum.com.
For more information, call the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority at 219-989-7770.
