Vehicle exhibits

Horace and John Dodge founded the Dodge Brothers Company in Detroit in 1900, initially operating a precision machining business. Their early work involved supplying vital engine and chassis components for major automotive companies, including Olds Motor Vehicle Company and the newly formed Ford Motor Company. The Dodge brothers’ commitment to engineering excellence and reliability quickly earned them a strong reputation.

In 1914, they launched their first car—the Dodge Model 30—which was a significant advancement for its time. It featured the first all-steel body in the American automotive industry, a 12-volt electrical system, and a sliding gear transmission. The Model 30 was a commercial success, and by 1916, Dodge ranked second in U.S. auto sales.

This particular 1920 Dodge Coupe is a highly unique example, known as the “Cooper Car” due to its extraordinary handcrafted bodywork. In 1921, Auckland resident Mr. Philip Lewis purchased the car new and embarked on a one-of-a-kind transformation. Over the course of approximately 1,000 hours, Mr. Lewis re-bodied the car using hand-beaten copper and brass panels—an incredibly rare and intricate feat.

The result was a true showpiece of craftsmanship, making its public debut in Auckland during the Queen Street Christmas Eve Parade of 1921. The combination of American engineering and New Zealand artistry makes this vehicle a standout in automotive history.