1924 Templar 4-45 Touring

The slogan for the Templar 4-45 was the 'Super Fine Small Car.' Powering was from an L-head unit that resembled that found in the Mercer but with overhead valves. It was given an extensive amount of aluminum along with novel features like the perpendicular drive of the magneto and water pump off the nose. Several body styles were available, including a roadster that was similar in design to the Stutz Bearcat. Nearly all the Templars rode on wire wheels.

Although small in size, the Templar vehicles demanded a high cost, which ultimately resulted in the company only having a few reasonable good sale years in the early 1920s. Ultimately, the cars were too expensive, and few appreciated their technical superiority. 1924 would be the final year for Templar production.

This Templar 4-45 Five-Passenger Touring car has been given a recent and comprehensive restoration. It is painted dark green over black leather, and white Houck wore wheels. The engine is a 197 cubic-inch 4-cylinder unit with overhead valves and an updraft single carburetor. There is a 3-speed transmission and rear-wheel mechanical brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2015