Reimagined Replica of the 1946 Tucker Torpedo Prototype II

Just REPLICA - We’re still talking about classic cars with wild shapes and ambitious dreams, and few capture that spirit quite like the Tucker Torpedo. In the late 1940s, the world was hungry for change—especially in the way people moved. Preston Tucker stepped up with a bold idea: a car that would be safer, faster, and radically different from anything else on the road. 

This replica car was built by Roy Tucker and taken of the 1971 Buick Riviera as the car basic. (Picture from: GMAuthority)

That dream led to the Tucker 48, a vehicle that sparked imaginations but sadly never reached its full potential. Only 51 units were built before the factory doors closed. But the idea never really died—it lived on through sketches, stories, and replicas like the one we're about to explore.

An early version of the Tucker Torpedo designed by George Lawson, Preston's Chief Designer at the time before he replaced by Alex Tremulis. (Picture from: Kustomrama)

This particular creation is not a real Tucker 48, nor is it something from Tucker’s production line. It’s a one-off build inspired by the Tucker Torpedo Prototype II, based on early 1946 design concepts by George Lawson and refined by Alex Tremulis. It's important to understand this replica isn’t meant to mimic the final Tucker 48—it aims to recreate the wild spirit of the prototype that never made it to production. 

A Tucker Torpedo design proposal by Alex Tremulis. This design was based on George Lawson's design but incorporated some improvements. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)

The replica was built by Roy Tucker—who, despite the last name, isn’t related to Preston Tucker. Starting with a 1971 Buick Riviera, Roy reshaped nearly every inch of it. The result is a machine that blends parts from classic LaSalle and Pontiac vehicles, with many components handcrafted just to stay faithful to the original concept. The base car might be from the '70s, but the visual intent reaches all the way back to 1946.

A rear three-quarter view of another Alex Tremulis design study. (Picture from: Kustomrama)

Its design is unmistakably different. The nose features a sharp trident shape, clearly nodding to Studebaker's look, with wheel-mounted fenders that turn along with the front wheels—each holding its own headlight. There’s also a third, centrally mounted light, which functions only as a high beam. At the back, a custom tail section with bold fins, exposed side exhausts, and sculpted vents completes the dramatic profile. 

Front view of the replica of 1946 Tucker Torpedo Prototype II. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

There are, of course, compromises. Unlike the prototype sketch that featured a central driving position, this car places the driver on the left, like a standard American vehicle. The body lines also feel more squared-off, likely due to the Riviera base, whereas the 1940s concept leaned toward a more flowing, rounded form typical of its era. The replica skips the mid-fin too, though it still manages to look just as unusual and futuristic. 

Right side view of the replica of 1946 Tucker Torpedo Prototype II. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

Step inside and it gets even more interesting. The cabin has full vinyl upholstery and classic styling, from the three-spoke steering wheel to the front seats that swivel outward for easier entry. Even the roof sides open slightly to help passengers get in and out—a small but clever touch. There’s also a built-in radar detection system, which feels charmingly outdated today but adds to the retro-futuristic vibe.

Interior view of the replica of 1946 Tucker Torpedo Prototype II. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

Under the hood, this machine is powered by a 455 cubic inch (7.5-liter) Buick V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission. It’s said to run smoothly, though the owner notes that a tune-up and a higher-capacity alternator would help it better handle today’s standards. Even so, for a vehicle rooted in a concept nearly 80 years old, it’s an impressive piece of work. 

Rear three-quarter of the replica of 1946 Tucker Torpedo Prototype II. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

While it may not be an exact replica, that was never really the point. What makes it stand out is the imagination and skill poured into its creation—a tribute to one of the most captivating “what if” stories in automotive history. More than just a car, it’s a rolling expression of a bold vision that refused to blend in.

Of course, no replica can fully capture every detail of the original design, which naturally invites both praise and criticism. Still, the dedication behind building this car deserves real recognition. And if there's a version that comes closest to realizing the full vision of the Tucker Torpedo Prototype, it might be the one created by Bob and Rob Ida—reportedly with the blessing of a direct descendant of Preston Tucker himself. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION | VINTAGE NEWS | GMAUTHORITY | KUSTOMRAMA | AUTO YAHOO | CARSTYLING.RU ]

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