The "Super Fine Small Car" was an apt slogan for the Templar
4-45. One of the first super high-quality, small American cars on
the market, the Templar was a product of some of the best talent of
the day. The team had previously worked at Pope Hartford, Stearns,
Matheson and most notably Mercer; Mercer undoubtedly had the
strongest influence. Although the engine bears striking resemblance
to the L-head Mercer, Templar took it a step further with overhead
valves. Extensive use of aluminum throughout the engine and novel
features like the perpendicular drive of the magneto and water pump
off the nose of the engine made the Templar unusual. The aluminum
components were polished, even the crank case.
The wonderful Templar engine was wrapped in some good-looking
sporty bodywork. A roadster that is a near twin to Stutz Bearcat
and a sport tourer that was a twin for Mercer Sporting were offered
along with more traditional coachwork like tourers and coupes.
Sport styling and performance were always at the forefront of
Templar and, as a result, nearly all of the cars were equipped with
wire wheels. All of this style and mechanical sophistication,
however, came at a cost. In 1921, a Templar Tourer cost just under
$2900, while a coupe rang in at $3700! These were enormous sums for
a small car when there were many similarly sized cars available for
well under $1000.
Templar managed to have a few reasonable good sale years in the
early 20s, but unfortunately it wouldn't last. The car was too
expensive and not enough people appreciated its technical
superiority. Templar would produce its last cars for the 1924 model
year.
This nicely restored Templar Tourer is a rare example of a late
model. Subject to recent and comprehensive restoration, this is
likely one of the nicest examples of its type. Finished in an
attractive dark green over black leather and white Houck wore
wheels, the top is trimmed in high quality heavy grained vinyl with
a matching boot. The dash is beautifully finished with all the
correct instruments and details. Having seen only limited use since
restoration, the car is in fine mechanical order and ready for show
or touring use.
Templar motorcars seldom come to market. The few that survive are
coveted for their fine engineering and excellent quality. A fun and
interesting car that has been fully restored, this Templar
represents an excellent value in a fine twenties motorcar.