1903 Toledo 12 Horsepower Rear-Entrance Tourer

This 1903 Toledo 12-Horsepower Rear-Entrance Touring car is the only known gasoline-powered survivor of the Toledo Company. It is the same kind of vehicle that won the 800-mile New York to Pittsburgh Endurance Run in October 1903. Considering the rudimentary road system at the time and the lack of fuel stations along the route, this was a very impressive accomplishment.

A total restoration of this car was completed in 2003. During the past three decades, the car has had only three owners. It rides on correct-style white tires and has period brass lamps, period wicker baskets, a fixed roof, and roll-down side curtains. The final drive is by dual chain, and power is sent to the rear wheels via a progressive-shift three-speed gearbox.

In 2008, this Rear-Entrance Touring car was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company Auction held in Pebble Beach, California. It was estimated to sell for $200,000 - $275,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for $192,500, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2009