1914 American Underslung Model 644 Four-Passenger Touring
The Indianapolis-based American Automobile Company created these revolutionary machines with their signature underslung chassis design, positioning the frame rails below the axles to dramatically lower the center of gravity while maintaining road clearance through oversized wheels. This American Underslung was recognized by renowned historian Dr. Fred Simeone as America’s first true sports car.
This four-passenger touring model featured a potent 451-cubic-inch T-head inline six-cylinder engine with twin-plug ignition producing 60 horsepower (substantial power for the brass era). The advanced four-speed overdrive transmission was remarkably sophisticated for 1914.
With only three examples of this specific model known to survive, this Underslung holds extraordinary rarity value among pre-war enthusiasts. The dramatic visual impact of the low-slung chassis riding on enormous wheels created an unmistakable presence.
Source
