Back in the 'teen years of the 20th century, a seemingly countless number of new brands of automobiles were introduced, the majority of which failed to take hold with the public. In fact, many new brands didn't get past the initial planning stage!
Various reasons were given as to why so many new brands flopped, one basic reason was the lack of capital to keep the new venture going.
By the way, there were two separate Ben-Hur ventures. The first was in Chicago, back in 1906, organized by Messrs. Hopp, Barrett and Moats. Capital stock amounted to some $50,000, but no evidence of any actual production remains.
The second Ben-Hur (1917-1918) was somewhat more successful, with better financing. L.L. Allen announced in February 1918 that between 30 and 40 cars had already been completed and shipped. Production would be limited for the time being to only five to 10 cars per week until a more-steady supply of auto bodies could be obtained. The factory was actually set up for as many as 20 cars per day.
Whether for lack of auto bodies or lack of additional capital, the company was in receivership by May 1918, and the Ben-Hur would join the ranks of the literally thousands of discontinued "orphan" brands of automobiles.
Touring cars, roadsters and sedans were all advertised in the Ben-Hur line, but it's likely that touring cars (Phaetons) were the mainstay of this particular brand. The car had many interesting features, and perhaps one is hidden somewhere today, waiting to be discovered by a collector.