The F.B. Stearns Company, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, carved a niche for itself in the automotive industry by producing large and powerful automobiles renowned for their exceptional quality. Among their notable creations, the Stearns-Knight models, introduced in 1913, stand out as exemplars of engineering excellence and innovation, thanks in large part to their distinctive Knight sleeve-valve engine.
The advent of the Stearns-Knight models marked a significant milestone for the automotive industry, particularly with the introduction of the company’s first six-cylinder engine. This engine, rated at 44 horsepower by the standards of the time, represented a remarkable feat of engineering, delivering performance that was unparalleled in its era. In modern terms, this power output translates to approximately 100 brake horsepower, a testament to the advanced design and craftsmanship of Stearns automobiles.
At the heart of the Stearns-Knight models lay the innovative Knight sleeve-valve engine, renowned for its smooth and quiet operation. Unlike conventional engines of the time, which utilized poppet valves, the sleeve-valve engine employed a unique design featuring sleeves that slid up and down within the cylinder, controlling the intake and exhaust of gases. This design not only reduced noise and vibration but also contributed to the engine’s exceptional performance and longevity.
Paired with a four-speed manual transmission and mounted on a robust 140-inch-wheelbase chassis, the Stearns-Knight models boasted formidable specifications that set them apart from their contemporaries. The combination of a powerful engine, sophisticated transmission, and sturdy chassis endowed these automobiles with remarkable capabilities, both on the road and in competition.
One of the most striking attributes of the Stearns-Knight models was their imposing presence and remarkable speed. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 70 miles per hour, these automobiles commanded attention wherever they went, earning accolades for their performance and refinement. Whether navigating city streets or cruising along highways, Stearns-Knight owners experienced the thrill of driving a machine that exemplified automotive excellence.
Beyond their impressive performance on the road, Stearns-Knight automobiles were admired for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each vehicle was meticulously crafted by skilled artisans, utilizing the finest materials and incorporating luxurious amenities to ensure the utmost comfort and satisfaction of their discerning clientele.
In summary, the Stearns-Knight models produced by the F.B. Stearns Company represented the pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury during their heyday. With their powerful sleeve-valve engines, robust construction, and elegant design, these automobiles left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape, embodying the spirit of innovation, quality, and performance that defined the golden age of motoring.
