1902 Rambler Model C Runabout

This Rambler 4 HP Runabout is a replica known produced in 1960. It was the work of the Gaslight Motors Corporation, of Lathrup Village, Michigan, who contracted the construction to American Air Products Corporation in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which also built the 'Merry Olds,' a scaled-down curved-dash Oldsmobile, during the same period.

This Gaslight Motors Rambler is a full-scale replication with a hand-crafted wooden body and is powered by a four-horsepower, single-cylinder air-cooled Clinton engine located under the seat. An automatic clutch connects to a two-speed transmission with reverse. The final drive was by single chain to the rear wheels. There is a 12-volt electrical system, with a starter and generator, full lighting, and turn signals. A folding top was standard equipment. The brakes were internal, expanding on the rear wheels. Four-wheel brakes were optional which would render them legal in Michigan, Illinois, Iowa, New Jersey, and Maryland. New Jersey also required the optional high-low beam headlamps, while California insisted on the windshield-and-electric wipers accessory package.

The current owner acquired this Gaslight Motors Rambler around 2000 from William Chapman of Wauseon, Ohio. It is finished in gloss black with white accent striping. The seat is upholstered in black vinyl. The car has a lighting package, parts of which appear to be sourced from Harley-Davidson. Neither the windshield nor the four-wheel-brake option is installed.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2020