1907 Thomas Flyer Model 35 Touring

At the beginning of 1908, E.R. Thomas's Model 35, powered by a 4-cylinder engine producing 70 horsepower, was a last-minute entry in what would be the world's longest automobile event, the epic New York to Paris Race. In just three days, the car was prepared by fitting a larger fuel tank, adding several spare tires, and replacing the fenders and running boards with rudimentary wooden planks that could be removed and used to help gain traction if and when the vehicle got stuck in the mud. On February 12, in the midst of a blinding snowstorm, 250,000 people packed New York Times Square for the start. Six cars from four countries embarked on the 22,000-mile odyssey, traveling some of the wildest stretches of uncharted lands. They crossed the United States in winter, something never previously accomplished by an automobile, traversed the island of Japan, and slogged across the whole of Europe. After 169 days of fierce competition, the lone American entry claimed victory on July 30, 1908, nearly one month ahead of the other cars. It was driven by George Schuster, the only driver to travel the entire distance. The win increased the prestige of all American cars and helped establish the automobile as a reliable means of long-distance travel.