Vehicle Description
Stoddard-Dayton predates the turn of the 20th century as a
manufacturer of agricultural equipment and tools, though it wasn't
until 1904 when Charles Stoddard, who had become seriously
interesting in motor cars since he first saw them on American roads
that he announced his company would be making a motor car of their
own. Going in with both feet, so to speak, the agricultural side of
the business was sold off and the company reincorporated as Dayton
Motor Car Company in December of 1904. Their first offering was
designed by Englishman H.S. Edwards and powered by a 26 horsepower
four-cylinder engine supplied by Rutenber. Over the course of the
next several years, Stoddard-Dayton automobiles grew in size, price
and production output. By 1908, four models were offered that
ranged from an 18 horsepower four-cylinder to a big 50/60hp touring
car that cost a rather significant $4,500. The firm continued with
moderate sales success, sticking with an ethos of quality over
quantity, holding fast to their values in the face of growing
pressure from the likes of Ford and other mass-produced motorcars.
1912 was the most successful year for the company, with 26,000
examples built over a wide variety of models. But late 1912,
Stoddard-Dayton faltered following an over-commitment to produce
even more cars, sending the company into a financial tailspin.
Stoddard-Dayton joined U.S. Motors in hopes of steadying itself,
however the conglomerate failed shortly afterward and
Stoddard-Dayton folded for good, its assets going to Maxwell and
eventually General Motors. Thankfully, the Stoddard-Dayton legacy
lives on thanks to the exceptional quality and care that was put in
to building every one of their motor cars. With cars like the Model
K, Stoddard-Dayton had earned a reputation for quality and
performance, and a Stoddard-Dayton was notable as the very first
car to win a motor race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (a 300
mile race that preceded the first 500) as well as the first car to
pace the 500 mile race at Indy. The Model K was their most sporting
offering with its four-cylinder engine rated at upwards of 35
horsepower, gaining the advanced overhead valve engine by 1908. A
Model K Runabout Speedster famously finished the 1907 Glidden Tour
with a perfect score, and it is believed just two or three such
examples were constructed. This stunning 1907 Stoddard-Dayton Model
K Runabout is the product of a multi-year, photo-documented
restoration by noted expert Dave Noran, with additional input from
Greg Cone and most recently a thorough mechanical sorting and
engine rebuild by the renowned brass-era specialist Mike Grunewald.
This magnificent car was discovered as a frame and multiple
mechanical components purchased from a South Dakota farm in 2001.
Once the buyers determined it to be a Model K, a truly remarkable
restoration commenced which was completed in the mid-2000s to a
very high standard. Today, it presents in fantastic condition, a
jewel of a brass-era machine looking rather resplendent in an
all-black livery that is highlighted by white tires (including twin
rear-mount spares) and subtle dark green coach stripes on the body,
wings and wooden wheels. A brass radiator shell, wheel caps,
fabulous Solar Parabolens headlights, dual cowl lights, steering
column and Solar acetylene tank all present in beautiful, highly
polished condition. The black paintwork is laid down to concours
standards, with excellent, straight panels and exceptional
detailing. It is quite simply a fine study in Brass Era elegance.
The cockpit is fully exposed as one could expect from a
Speedster-type car of this era, and it features a unique three-seat
arrangement with a single seat in the rear, complete with a toolbox
on the left running board and a small trunk under the seats. The
leather trim has been painstakingly crafted and finished, showing
little to no use since the restoration was completed. A wood
scuttle is highly polished and adorned with even more brass for the
cockpit surround and other controls. There is no windscreen,
weather equipment or instrumentation, leaving the driver and
passengers to get the full "seat of the pants" experience. Stoddard
Dayton's burly T-head four-cylinder was rated for 30 horsepower in
standard trim, though thanks to the efforts of Mr. Grunewald, it
likely makes quite a bit more today. In 2015, Grunewald completely
disassembled the engine, re-machining it to accommodate new
lightweight aluminum pistons, along with careful adjustment of
bearing clearances, as well as timing and synchronization of the
camshafts to ensure smooth, easy operation. Upon reassembly, he
laboriously ensured every seal, gasket and mating surface was tight
and free of leaks or drips. Today, the engine runs beautifully and
remains exceptionally dry for a brass-era unit. In addition to his
engine work, Grunewald also addressed the ignition system, rear
axle, brakes, transmission and wiring to ensure it is thoroughly
sorted and enjoyable from the word go. Included in the sale is
extensive documentation covering this car's discovery through its
restoration and final sorting. Comparisons with the other two
surviving Stoddard-Dayton Model K Runabouts are also included in
the comprehensive files. This example is a recent AACA award winner
(2016) and also lapped the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2016 as
part of the celebrations for that year's race. Imposing, impressive
and fabulously presented, this rare and highly desirable
Stoddard-Dayton Model K Runabout is a celebration of the
performance and beauty of the American brass era.
