1926 Franklin Model llA Coupe

The Franklin Automobile Company was one of America's automotive pioneers, starting production in 1902 and championing individualistic engineering - specifically, air-cooled engines - throughout its history. Another distinctive trait was Franklin's use of ash as a structural element, including chassis members. The company employed wood in its chassis until 1928 when ash became scarce and the advantages of steel became increasingly compelling. Franklin staged repeated durability demonstrations in defense of its air-cooled powerplants, including a coast-to-coast drive by Erwin 'Cannonball' Baker in which the engine ran continuously throughout the 69-hour, 31-minute run. Nevertheless, air cooling didn't resonate very well with potential buyers, provoking a 1923 dealer revolt.

The dealers demanded that Franklin equip its cars with faux radiators, threatening mass franchise cancellations if they weren't satisfied. The result is the massive grille you see on this Opera Coupe, distinctive with its vertical nickel stripes and irrelevant in terms of engine cooling. The styling was conservative, but Franklin moved steadily and successfully upmarket, sustained by high-quality standards and customer loyalty. The company's fortunes peaked in 1929, then plunged as America descended into the doldrums of the Great Depression. Franklin management responded by attempting to move into the top echelons of the shrinking market with a V12 model in 1932. But it was not to be, and Franklin ceased production in 1934. Propelled by an air-cooled inline-six, and priced at $2,600 new, this Opera Coupe is one of three produced for the model year 1926.