1903 Oldsmobile Model R Curved Dash Runabout

The Oldsmobile factory in Lansing developed the concepts of mass automobile production on continuous assembly lines. They fostered the development of specialist suppliers like Leland & Faulconer, Dodge Brothers and others that i turn, supported the burgeoning auto industry that would transform Detroit the center of automobile manufacturing in North America.

The Olds Curved Dash helped change the public image of the automobile as an economical and viable alternative to horse drawn transportation. They were a lightweight and simple machine that made graduating from horse to gasoline power a manageable step. Power came from a horizontally-mounted single-cylinder 4.5-horsepower 95 cubic-inch engine with mechanically operated valves mated to a 2-speed planetary gearbox with single chain drive to the rear axle. Initially offered only with a transmission brake, a mechanical brakes on the rear axle was later added in the event the drive chain broke. Many other changes were made to the Curved Dash during its production lifespan of 1901 through 1904.

This example was in the Pierce A. Miller Carriage Collection. It is a later 1903 model with roller chain drive, bolted differential housing and finned radiator tubes. There are a number of optional features including the dos-a-dos rear seat with fold-down footrest, and a pair of kerosene sidelights. The car is in original condition.

In 2013, the car was offered for sale at Bonhams Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $62,100 including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2013