Iconic Masterpiece - In the world of custom cars, few vehicles stand out like the Templeton Saturn. Known also as the Bob Hope Special Roadster, this one-of-a-kind masterpiece has earned a place in automotive history for its striking design and unique backstory. Built for Lloyd Templeton, a man with a deep passion for innovation, the Templeton Saturn is a symbol of the creative spirit that defined mid-20th century American car culture. Its fascinating history, design, and recognition in prestigious car events make it a legendary figure in the automotive world.
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| The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn is a mix of Chrysler, Chevrolet, Dodge, Pontiac and Hudson, was all the craze at auto shows back in the 1950s. (Picture from: Autoevolution) |
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| The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn's body, a mix of curves and flat surfaces, features a lengthened Chrysler hood, a Mercury windshield, and rear fenders from a ’46 Chevy, creating a unique and eye-catching appearance. (Picture from: Autoevolution) |
At the heart of the Templeton Saturn is a ’48 239.4 Cubic Inch Flathead V8 engine, equipped with two Stromberg 94 Carburetors and Speedway Heads. The engine, paired with a manual transmission, provided a thrilling driving experience that matched the car’s bold exterior. Its body, a mixture of curves and flat surfaces, is another defining characteristic. The Chrysler hood, lengthened and modified for a more streamlined look, along with the Mercury windshield and rear fenders made from a ’46 Chevy, contributed to the car’s unique and eye-catching appearance. Even the rear deck lid, borrowed from a Hudson hood, added to the car’s one-of-a-kind nature. Meanwhile, the grille, a cut-down version of a ’48 Dodge, and bumpers from a ’46 Pontiac, completed the vehicle’s distinctive exterior.
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| The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn features a cockpit-style interior inspired by aviation design, with multiple gauges, mostly period Stewart Warner dials, with various knobs and switches added a layer of sophistication. (Picture from: Autoevolution) |
Inside, the Templeton Saturn’s cockpit-style interior was inspired by aviation design, featuring multiple gauges, mostly period Stewart Warner dials, with a white-on-black color scheme. The various knobs and switches added a layer of sophistication, giving the driver the feeling of being in control of a high-performance machine. This thoughtful attention to detail in both the exterior and interior design made the Saturn stand out as a true work of art, not just a car.
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| The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn features a cabin designed to accommodate two passengers, with an elegant white-on-black color scheme enhancing its stylish interior. (Picture from: Autoevolution) |
Lloyd Templeton named the car the "Templeton Saturn" after himself, with "Saturn" symbolizing its ability to outpace the cars of its time. This was a fitting name for a vehicle that continuously received accolades across the United States. From the Pan Pacific Auditorium in California to the 1952 Speedarama Show in Minneapolis, the Templeton Saturn impressed crowds with its design and performance. Its fame only grew as it made appearances at notable events, including a display at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where it was featured as the "Car of Tomorrow."
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| The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn is powered by a ’48 239.4 Cubic Inch Flathead V8 engine with two Stromberg 94 Carburetors and Speedway Heads, paired with a manual transmission to deliver a thrilling driving experience that complements its bold exterior. (Picture from: Autoevolution) |
The Templeton Saturn’s legacy continues to this day. In 2012, the car was invited to the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, cementing its place among the most celebrated vehicles in automotive history. It also received an in-depth 12-pages feature in MotorTrend Classic Winter 2012 Edition, further solidifying its status as a collectible and a milestone in American automotive history. The Templeton Saturn is not just a car; it is a symbol of creativity, craftsmanship, and a bygone era of American ingenuity.
In the end, the Templeton Saturn stands as a testament to the vision of its creator, Lloyd Templeton, and the golden age of custom car culture in America. Its unique design, history, and influence in automotive circles ensure that this one-of-a-kind roadster will continue to captivate car enthusiasts and collectors for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION | JAMESEDITION ]Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
