• A popular example of an early motoring icon
• Displayed in various museums in the USA
• Well maintained, usable example
• Perfect for the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run

Known as the 'Curved Dash' for obvious reasons, Ransom Eli Olds's gasoline-powered runabout set the United States on its way to becoming a nation on wheels. Olds' runabout was first offered for sale in 1901, following a fire at the factory that had destroyed every other prototype. Over 11,000 of the three Curved Dash models ('R', '6C' and 'B') were constructed before production ceased in 1907, making it the first volume produced American automobile. Indeed, Olds' many promotional trips and exhibitions helped create the public image of the automobile as a viable and economical alternative to the horse.

The Model 'R' runabout was powered by a single-cylinder, 1.6-litre engine of 114x152mm bore/stroke, mounted horizontally at the rear and producing 4½ horsepower at 600rpm. Later models benefited from a more-powerful engine, and all featured two-speed transmission and chain final drive. At first there was only a transmission brake, but experience soon showed that a mechanical brake on the rear axle was indispensable if the drive chain broke. Several improvements to the design were made during the course of production, but the engine's basic layout remained unchanged.

This stunning example has been well maintained and cared for from the time when it was purchased and delivered new to Colorado towards the end of 1903. The accompanying documents file indicates that this Model R Runabout was restored in 1958, seemly with careful preservation of many original components. The engine was rebuilt in 1999 and the Surrey top was recovered a few years later using proper period materials. This Curved Dash has a lifelong history in Colorado as it has been registered in that state since its original purchase in Telluride. Previous owners displayed the car in various museums, and the purchase includes some museum informational display boards and documentation.

This Curved Dash Olds will provide the new owner with many opportunities, being eligible for the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run and VCC events such as the 'Creepy Crawly', as well as Horseless Carriage Tours and Veteran Car Runs in the USA. Offered with a State of California Certificate of Title, this beautiful Curved Dash gained a 2nd place award at the Techno-Classica Essen in 2023.

Please note that this vehicle is from outside the UK. Our customs agents, CARS UK, will manage all post sale customs administration. A fee of £350+VAT will be charged on the buyer's invoice to administer both import or export customs movements. If the buyer also chooses to ship with CARS UK, this will be quoted separately. If this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance formalities. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department.