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1905 Stanley Model CX


Chassis number: 1273

The Model C. Stanley Steamer series began production by the Stanley twins in 1903. The 'X' designation in the CX is for the larger engine and boiler than in the Model C. The CX was built from 1904 into early 1906. The 1905 models also appear in some Stanley literature as a 'Doctor's Ruabout.' This 1905 CX # 1273, was restored in the late 1970s after being found on a farm in Pennsylvania. It has been run on several Horseless Carriage Club of America Tours in California prior to coming to its current owner in Michigan.

One of these Stanley Runabouts, a stock model, was used by F. E. Stanley for the 'Climb to the Clouds' competition at Mt. Washington, NH, in 1904. Mr. Stanley posted a time for the 8-mile climb of just over 28 minutes - second only in the competition to a 60 hp Mercedes.

Runabout
Chassis number: 1305

From 1901 to 1927, the Stanley Motor Carriage Company of newton, Massachusetts, was the world's most famous maker of steam-powered automobiles. They produced nearly 11,000 vehicles and set numerous land speed records.

This Model CX was last driven nearly 100 years ago. It has been carefully stored for nearly its entire existence, and it is believed that this is the most original Stanley example in existence. The car was purchased new by wealthy Boston-area lawyer Albert Worthen. Mr. Worthen and his brother drove the car until 1912. At the time, it had about 2,400 miles when it was put into the family barn. The car was sold to Don Bourdon in 1980, and that was the first time it left the family property since it was put into hibernation.

This Model CX has a factory-installed 16-inch diameter boiler, eight-horsepower engine, and 48-gear ratio within the 78-inch wheelbase chassis. The car has its original exterior, interior, lights, and dual Ashton Valve gauges with Stanley Motor Carriage labels.

In 2010, the car was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars of Hershey auction presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $70,000-$90,000 and was offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for $48,400, including the buyer's premium.

by Dan Vaughan