1907 Franklin Model D Runabout

For 1907, Franklin offered three models, the small 4-cylinder G, the larger 4-cylinder D, and the 6-cylinder H. All had a flexible 3-ply ash wood frame, aluminum crankcase, transmission, hood, and body. By this point in history, all Franklins had inline engines and three-speed selective transmissions. The distinctive one-piece aluminum 'Barrel Hood' was a natural evolution of designer Wilkinson's firm belief in 'Scientific Light Weight.'

The typical vehicle of this era had a wood frame body construction. All but the first Franklin bodies were built with lightweight angled steel and aluminum panels. Originally riding on 36-inch diameter tires, Franklins were famous for their ride & tire mileage, so much so that Franklins of the period carried no spare tire.

This 1907 Franklin Type D Runabout is powered by a 201 cubic-inch four-cylinder engine rated at 20 horsepower. It has a 95-inch platform and weighs just 1700 lbs.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2011