Stout Scarab
Written by Keith Fudge

Recently, we had the chance to head north to Franklin , Wisconsin to visit with Ron Schneider and take a look at many of the outstanding classic cars in his collection. He told us that he always has a variety of projects in different stages of completion. For instance, Ron pointed out an all original 1936 two-door Ford. Right next to it was a fantastic 1958 Ford Country Squire, a car you definitely don't see every day. Also, in this building there was a 1932 Ford V-8, a recent “barn-find” roadster, a host of Lincoln Zephyrs, and an XK 120 Jaguar. However, perhaps the coolest car there was a 1955 Bobtail Cooper Climax Sports Racer! This car helped make racing history, as it was the basis for Cooper's Formula 1 efforts as race winners in 1959 and 1960. Powered by a single-cam, mid-engine, four-cylinder motor, this was definitely a class racer of its time.

We left that building and went outside to see a few more cars. First, Ron showed us a stunning 1953 Jaguar Mark 7. This car is equipped with a 3.4-liter engine and a four-speed transmission. Just opposite the Jag sat a 1936 Lincoln Zephyr. Powered by a 267 cubic-inch V-12, this flash from the past made 110 horsepower! The interior is clearly “art deco” in design, and the “suicide” doors give the car a certain open appeal. Needless to say, we were overwhelmed by this cool collection of stunning vehicles. However, Dennis informed Ron that there was one car that he was particularly interested in seeing: a 1936 Scout Scarab. Ron responded that his request was no problem, so they headed out in Ron's immaculate 1970 Ford Torino Squire wagon.

After a short ride, Ron and Dennis arrived at Ron's home to find the Stout Scarab aptly sitting in the driveway. Dennis couldn't wait to see a car that he had heard so much about. Ron said the Stout Scarab was truly a vehicle that was ahead of its time. Just to put the rarity of the vehicle in perspective, he said this car was one of nine ever built and only one of five that have survived.

Obviously, the first thing that one notices when looking at the Scarab is its “beetle-like” shape. Although it is roughly no bigger on the exterior than a comparable Chevy or Ford of the era, it has twice the interior room. Styling and engineering were also revolutionary as the car sported a dash and doors that were constructed from cast magnesium. In addition, the headliner is made from wicker, as are the lower panels in the doors. This touch was probably added because Stout worked for airline companies, and wicker was used as interior trim in the cabins. Another unusual feature for a car of this era was that it was a rear-engine model. Access to the motor is obtained by completely removing two hood panels. The power plant for the Scarab was a Ford Flathead V-8 that is mounted backwards and is coupled to a three-speed transmission. The interior of the vehicle is also a sight to behold as it actually contains a table. There are also two chairs that can be moved about for convenience or comfort.

Finally, there was nothing left to do but take the Scarab out for a “road test,” so Ron and Dennis took to the streets of Franklin . On their drive, Ron talked to Dennis about the man who designed this auto and how his aim was simply to create a better car. He also mentioned that Stout had engineering training and for a time, he worked for Ford. He then left in 1931 to pursue his own dreams of becoming a car manufacturer. One thing about it, the cars he built weren't cheap. The 1936 Scarab cost $5000 and up! Soon, Ron slid out of the way and allowed Dennis the privilege of driving this rare and legendary auto. Dennis then drove the Scarab back to Ron's house and commented that it was a drive he would always remember. Ron, we would like to offer our sincere thanks for sharing your cars with us today!

Dennis and the crew saw some great cars when they were in Franklin , Wisconsin . Watch out; they might be coming to your neck of the woods one of these days as well. That's it from Wisconsin . So until our next visit, remember; “Honor the timeless classics. Happy Motoring!”