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1914 Franklin Model M Series 5

The H.H. Franklin Manufacturing Company made motor cars between 1902 and 1934 in Syracuse, New York. Herbert H. Franklin, the founder, started out in the metal die-casting business - in fact, he invented the term 'die cast' - before entering the automobile business with engineering guru John Wilkinson. All Franklin cars were air-cooled, which was much simpler and more reliable than using water.

The early Franklins were given high-revving, 4-cylinder engines mounted transversely in a lightweight chassis with tubular axles and wooden frame rails. They were sporty, quick, and agile. These Franklin 'Cross-Engine' models carried distinct advantages in performance and efficiency over the large bore one- and two-cylinder cars in similar size and price class. By 1905, crankcases were aluminum, as were body panels. The drive came from a two-speed transmission through a chain to the rear wheels.

Rugged and reliable, these early Franklins set very high standards for the day.

by Dan Vaughan

Touring

In 1914, Franklin focused on its smaller 6-cylinder chassis, refining both body and chassis mechanically and cosmetically. These '6-30' cars of 1912-1916 (six cylinder-30 horsepower) enhanced Franklin's reputation as a builder of lightweight, efficient cars that were easy to handle, easy on tires, and capable in any real-world situation at high or low speeds. The 'Best Riding Car in the World' was made with prodigious use of aluminum throughout the body, engine, transmission, and hood, resulting in the H.H. Franklin Manufacturing Company being named the World's Largest Consumer of Aluminum in 1913.

This Franklin is powered by a six-cylinder engine offering 30 horsepower and riding on a 120-inch platform. The original price was $2,900.