Life, 1929-04-05 · page 2 of 56
Life — April 5, 1929 — page 2: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This page is **primarily an advertisement**, not satire or political commentary. It promotes Stutz and Blackhawk automobiles, marketing them as representing "the very apex of modernism" in 1920s-era automotive design. The advertisement lists technical features presented as cutting-edge: four-speed transmissions, worm-drive systems, safety glass, and a "Noback" anti-rollover device. The stylized illustration depicts a luxury sedan against an art deco backdrop. The only potentially humorous element is the tagline "THE SAFEST CAR HAS THE RIGHT TO BE THE FASTEST"—a paradox suggesting these vehicles achieve both safety and performance simultaneously, which may have been tongue-in-cheek given 1920s technology limitations. This represents straightforward automotive marketing rather than political or social satire.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
THVE What is the most modern car? With motors especially designed to meet the road requirements of today and tomorrow — With four-speed transmissions of startling efficiency — With worm-drive and consequently low center of gravity, and its unmatched safety — With a new kind of de-celeration, made possible by the mightiest of brakes — With the “Noback,” an entirely new de- vice which automatically prevents unde- sirable back-rolling on hills — With safety glass, of course, and brilliant speed and comfort supreme— These two cars cap the very apex of modernism. And they have easily commanded a pres- tige and financial resourcefulness that is a truly modern achievement. Stutz $3395 to $6895, Blackhawk $2345 to $2955, f. 0. b. Indianapolis STUTZ and BLACKHAW K SAFEST CAR HAS Tan se RIGHT TO BE ES comicbooks.com