For 1930 the Essex Challenger Six sat atop a 113 inch wheelbase. Part way through the early 1930's the platform was changed to a 106 inch wheelbase and dubbed the Terraplane. The six-cylinder engine produced 58 horsepower in the early 1930's but after a few years the output was increased to 70. One ad stated 'In the air, it's aeroplaning; on the water, its hydroplaning; on the ground, hot diggety dog, thats Terraplaning!'

The vehicles were fast, durable, and economical. At around $700 in 1930, the Essex was a bargain. Within a few years the price decreased, dropping a couple hundred dollars to a low of about $425.