1907 Franklin Model D Landaulette

The Franklin Automobile Company produced vehicles from 1902 through 1934. They are best remembered for their air-cooled engines, wooden frames, and full-elliptic springs.

For 1907, the Model D was available as a four-person touring car, a two-person runabout, or a five-person Landaulette. The Model D rested on a wheelbase that measured 105 inches and was powered by a four-cylinder engine that offered 20 horsepower. The other models offered by Franklin in 1907 were the 90-inch wheelbase Model G and the 127-inch wheel-base Model H. The Model H was the top of the line with its six-cylinder engine that offered thirty horsepower. The base model was the Model G which was powered by a four-cylinder engine that produced 12 horsepower.

This 1907 Franklin Type D Landaulette is the only 1907 Franklin of this body style known to exist. Total Model D production for 1907 was around 2,400 cars.

This Model D rides on comfortably fully-elliptic springs and drives through a three-speed gearbox. Due to its lightweight construction methods, this car has very impressive Horsepower to Weight ratios for its day.

Prior to the current owner purchasing the car in 2003, it was on display at the Imperial Palace Collection in Las Vegas. The car rides on white tires, has red leather upholstery, and there is a full complement of brass lamps and accessories.

In 2008, this George N. Pierce & Co. Arrow was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company Auction held in Pebble Beach, California. It was estimated to sell for $125,000 - $160,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for $93,500, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2009