1907 Stoddard-Dayton Model K Runabout

The first Stoddard-Dayton models were designed by Englishman J.S. Edwards and powered by four-cylinder Rutenberg engines offering 26 horsepower. Both four- and six-cylinder models were offered in 1907. By 1910, a total of 12 models were available on three different chassis, including a 128-inch wheelbase version powered by a 50-horsepower engine. In 1911, a six-cylinder Knight engine was introduced, while three conventional four-cylinder models continued through 1913.

At the inaugural Indianapolis 500, a Stoddard-Dayton paced the event and was also the first car to win a race at Indy (a 300-mile race that preceded the first 500). In 1912, a Stoddard-Dayton became part of the U.S. Motor Co. and ceased to exist with the collapse of the company one year later.

This particular example is a Model K and is one of only three known to survive. It was discovered as a bare frame with some mechanical components at a South Dakota farm in 2001. A multi-year restoration followed and was completed in the mid-2000s. It is finished in black paintwork with dark green coach stripes on the body, fenders, and wooden wheels. There is brass along the radiator shell, wheel caps, Solar Parabolens headlights, dual cowl lights, steering column, and Solar acetylene tank. The seats are made of leather.

In 2016 it lapped the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and received its AACA First Junior at Auburn the following year.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2019