1912 Oakland Model 30 Tourer

Collectors' Motorcars and Automobilia Auction|7 October 2019, 13:00 EDT|Philadelphia, Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum

1912 Oakland Model 30 Tourer
Chassis no. 7500

201ci L-Head Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
Single Updraft Carburetor
Approx. 30bhp
3-Speed Sliding-Gear Transmission with Overdrive
Solid Front Axle, Semi-Floating Rear Axle
Rear-Wheel Mechanical Brakes

*Well proven Brass car with many tours under its belt
*Handsome Tourer coachwork
*Rare make seldomly seen motorcar
*Strong presentation throughout

THE OAKLAND MOTOR CAR COMPANY

Oakland was founded in 1907 in Pontiac, Michigan by Edward Murphy and Alanson P. Brush, who, between the two of them had amassed a tremendous amount of experience in manufacturing. Their reputation for quality was buoyed by sporting success, mainly in hill-climb events and reliability runs. For the 1912 model year, the lineup consisted of three models, all powered by four-cylinder engines of varying output. The mid-sized Model 30 was popular with buyers and further solidified Oakland's standing in the market. Sales continued to be strong until the 1920s when Oakland introduced their low-cost Pontiac sub-brand. By 1932, Oakland Motor Car Company was ousted and changed its name to Pontiac Motor Company.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This 1912 Oakland Model 30 Tourer is a handsome example from this seldom-seen marque. This charming car has enjoyed many years of care and regular enjoyment with enthusiast owners. It once belonged to Marty Roth, a well-known and active member of the AACA who enjoyed the car on numerous tours and events with both the AACA and the Horseless Carriage Club of America. In the hands of past owners, it is said to have competed in the famous Glidden Tour which is one of the most grueling tests for veteran cars. To further improve its touring ability, it has been sensibly upgraded by several respected brass-era experts. A particular highlight is the Gear Vendor overdrive unit, installed by the late "Mr. Overdrive" Lloyd Young of Winchester, Ohio. The transmission, in turn, was rebuilt by respected Oakland expert Bud Jonas of Belden, Michigan. Further work included a rebuilt brass radiator by Dick Runion, an upgraded magneto and discreet conversion of the gas lamps to electric. The most recent owner has added an electric starter and fitted new pistons, and an exhaust-powered locomotive horn keeps modern drivers on their best behavior.

A recent demonstration of the car found it started easily and comfortably cruised the road on a good clip. The overdrive unit provided a nice benefit for higher speed cruising with engine noticeably less strained. This Oakland is a handsome looking proven touring machine from a brand seldom seen today. It should provide a fun entry into the world of brass era touring.

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