c.1905 REO Single Cylinder Runabout

The Tupelo Automobile Museum Auction|27 April 2019, 10:00 CDT|The Tupelo Automobile Museum

c.1905 REO Single Cylinder Runabout
Chassis no. (see text)

90ci L-Head Single-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
7½ bhp
2-Speed Planetary Transmission with Chain Drive
4-Wheel Leaf Spring Suspension
Mechanical Brakes

*Previously the Star of "Emmy Goes to Brighton"
*A rarely seen Brass-era motorcar
*A very fun brass era car
*The quintessential American runabout

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

"No, I will not let you tow us. I came here to drive from London to Brighton and that's what I'm going to do or die in the attempt!"

The enthusiastic quote printed above are the words of 1961 Formula One world champion driver Phil Hill, pilot of this lovely REO Runabout for the 1966 running of the famed veteran car run. As part of ABC's Wide World of Sports Program, a special feature was aired titled "Emmy Goes to Brighton" (Emmy being the named bestowed upon the REO) with the American racing legend behind the wheel. As one can surmise from Hill's exasperations, it was not an affair without drama. Despite numerous stoppages and even a weld giving out within the gearbox, Emmy completed the event just 10 minutes before the clocks chimed 4 o'clock. Since this wondrous occasion, the REO has become a true 'veteran' of the even by completing the run on numerous occasions thereafter.

The vehicle is reported to have lived in the U.K. for much of its life and prior to Mr. Spain's acquisition of the vintage motor in 1991, was under the care of a Mr. James C. Leake for many decades. It can also be accurately reported that the car was restored in 1967 by Latern Car LTD, and thanks to many years of careful ownership, the REO still shows in wonderful condition today. It should be noted however that while the car was officially dated in 1956 by the Veteran Car Club of Great Britain as a 1904 model, the true production date of 'Emmy' is likely 1905.

Regardless, the car is still likely to be eligible for the run due to the grandfather clause and presents as a wonderful opportunity for anyone looking to partake in one of the most entertaining motoring events of the year.

Saleroom notices

Please note, this vehicle is titled as a model year 1904 under an unconfirmed chassis no. 9519.

Additional information

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