1905 Franklin Model A Runabout

The H.H. Franklin Manufacturing Company made motor cars between 1902 and 1934 in Syracuse, New York. Herbert H. Franklin, the founder, started out in the metal die-casting business - in fact, he invented the term 'die cast' - before entering the automobile business with engineering guru John Wilkinson. All Franklin cars were air-cooled, which was much simpler and more reliable than using water.

The early Franklins were given high-revving, 4-cylinder engines mounted transversely in a lightweight chassis with tubular axles and wooden frame rails. They were sporty, quick, and agile. These Franklin 'Cross-Engine' models carried distinct advantages in performance and efficiency over the large bore one- and two-cylinder cars in similar size and price class. By 1905, crankcases were aluminum, as were body panels. The drive came from a two-speed transmission through a chain to the rear wheels.

Rugged and reliable, these early Franklins set very high standards for the day. The Type A was available with a rear-entrance tonneau for an additional $150, making it a four or five-passenger touring car.

Power is from a 107.8 cubic-inch four-cylinder engine offering 12 horsepower. The wheelbase measures 80 inches and weighs 1175 lbs. Total production for the year amounted to around 1500 units.