Ford Tapertail- 1937

Created by Californian Jay Eitel, inventor of the cherry picker (the bucket truck), the Tapertail project began in 1941. Inspired by the streamlined Auto Union race cars of the 1930s, Eitel envisioned a rear-engine, aerodynamic car. His initial design was based on a midget racer, with a chassis similar to the belly tank lakesters of the time. However, due to business and family commitments, the project was repeatedly delayed over the years. In the early 2000s, Eitel finally completed the Tapertail, with a body designed by Chrysler designer Dave Cummins (known for his work on the Barracuda) and crafted by Moal Coachbuilders of Oakland, California. The car merges period-correct 1940s components with modern updates for speed, reliability, and performance. It stands as a testament to Eitel’s innovation, perseverance, and passion for automobiles.