1904 Oldsmobile "Curved-Dash Runabout"

Specifications

Drivetrain: Rear engine, rear wheel drive

Engine: Horizontal single cylinder

Displacement: 118 Cubic Inch

Horsepower: 7hp

Transmission: 2-speed planetary transmission

A Little History

The Oldsmobile Curved-Dash Runabout was a vehicle that was nearly snuffed from history before it was even introduced to the world.

Ransom Eli Olds had experimented with steam and electric propulsion but ultimately decided on the internal combustion engine. His curved-dash model was completed in 1900 and ready for market in early 1901.

However, a fire at the factory delayed the start of production with only one prototype rescued. Production resumed shortly thereafter and the first runabout was available to the public in the late summer