1905 Rapid Nine-Passenger Omnibus Omnibus

The Rapid Motor Vehicle Company was established in 1904 in Detroit, Michigan, and would survive until 1912 when it was taken over by General Motors. In 1905, the Rapid Company was relocated to Pontiac, Michigan. The first model was a light delivery van with a twin-cylinder engine, located under the driver's seat. It used a planetary transmission and single drive chain. By 1906, the company offered nine different models, including trucks of one and one-and-a-half ton capacity and a 20-passenger bus.

By 1909, the Rapid Company offered 17 models including an ambulance, a fire engine, and several buses. The following year, just three sizes of trucks were offered.

After being absorbed by the General Motors Company, the one-and-a-half and two-ton trucks continued to be built, in the Rapid plant, and sold under the new GMC brand name. The Reliance Motor Truck Company of Detroit, also a new GM acquisition, furnished larger models for the new marque.

This Rapid Nine-Passenger Omnibus is finished in dark green with a bright red chassis and wheels. The seats are red buttoned leather, shaded by a fringed surrey top. There are brass Solar headlamps, steering column, and hubcaps. The vehicle rides on solid rubber tires. There is a twin-cylinder engine with a double-chain drive and two-wheel mechanical brakes.

In 2012, this car was offered for sale by RM Auctions at their Monterey, CA sale. The car was estimated to sell for $80,000 - $120,000 and was offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $60,500 inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2012