1908 REO Model A Touring

Engine: Horizontally opposed 2­-cylinder
“Float­-Feed” Carburetor / 20 bhp
2­-Speed Planetary Transmission w/Chain Drive
Mechanical Hand­ Brake System

● Rarely Seen 2­-Cylinder Model
● Older Museum Restoration
● Desirable Brass Era Car

The Model: Ransom E. Olds was a lot like Henry Ford. At about the same time Ford was playing with his Quadracycle in Dearborn, Michigan, Olds was putting the finishing touches on his own automobile in nearby Lansing. Olds was first to the marketplace and by the time Ford was established, Oldsmobiles were the most popular car in the USA. Ransom Olds wanted to keep producing affordable cars for the masses, but the owners of the Oldsmobile brand, which Olds had sold to raise capital, wanted expensive high-­end models with higher profit margins. Olds left and established R.E.O. based on his initials, and engineering skills. A number of single-­cylinder models were produced followed by a few two-cylinder models

This example is one of those rare 20 HP horizontally opposed two­-lungers produced from 1906 to 1909. Offered in several body styles, the touring car was by far the most popular edition then and now. Many brass car collectors attest the REO Model A was the best choice for climbing hills, because of its tremendous torque.

This REO Model­ A was owned by several members of the Horseless Carriage Club over the years. It features its original wooden body, which cost $1,250 FOB, Lansing, plus another $50 for the optional top. The black leather seats are finished in a period-correct diamond tufting. With wood spoke wheels and blackwall tires, this touring Reo is fitted with headlights and cowl lights that are the original Gray & Davis styles. My car was given a sympathetic restoration several decades ago as it carries a patina of some usage.