The 1902 Oldsmobile Model R Curved Dash Runabout stands as a testament to the early days of automotive innovation and the transition from horse-drawn carriages to motor vehicles. This particular model, notable for its iconic “curved dash,” represents a pivotal point in automotive history, characterized by simplicity, practicality, and the pioneering spirit of its era.
Built during a time when automobiles were still in their infancy, the Model R Curved Dash Runabout was designed by Ransom Eli Olds, a pioneer in the American automotive industry. It featured a distinctive curved footboard borrowed from carriage designs, which served both as a practical mudguard and a familiar feature for carriage passengers transitioning to the new mode of transportation.
Underneath its simple yet robust exterior, the Model R was powered by a single-cylinder engine producing around four and a half horsepower. This engine, coupled with a two-speed transmission utilizing a center chain drive, provided sufficient power to propel the lightweight vehicle along early 20th-century roads and paths. Steering was accomplished via a tiller, a common feature in early automobiles that reflected the transitional nature of automotive design from horse-drawn vehicles.
The tiller allowed for direct control over the front wheels, requiring physical effort and skill from the driver, akin to handling a horse-drawn carriage. Externally, the Model R Curved Dash Runabout retained its vintage charm with Neverout brass kerosene headlights, showcasing the technological advancements of the time in automotive lighting. These headlights, along with other brass fittings and detailing, underscored the craftsmanship and attention to detail that characterized early automobile manufacturing.
The car’s historical significance was further preserved through meticulous restoration efforts undertaken by George Green, a renowned authority on the Oldsmobile Model R. Green’s restoration work ensured that the vehicle maintained its authenticity and originality, showcasing it as a living piece of automotive history.
In 1986, the current owner acquired this Model R Curved Dash Runabout, recognizing its historical value and unique place in the evolution of automotive design. Subsequent to its acquisition, the engine and transmission were rebuilt to ensure reliability and functionality, while the body received a fresh coat of paint in 2016, enhancing its appearance while preserving its vintage allure.
Today, this 1902 Oldsmobile Model R Curved Dash Runabout stands as a cherished artifact of automotive history, representing the pioneering spirit and ingenuity of early automobile manufacturers. Its presence serves as a reminder of the humble beginnings of the automotive industry and the rapid technological advancements that would soon follow, shaping the way for modern automobiles as we know them today.
