Ransom Eli Olds had not one, but two car companies named after him. Sure, you remember Oldsmobile. But what about the REO?
REO was an American automotive manufacturer founded in 1905 which created a wide range of trucks and cars during the company’s history. REO is most well known for its Royale and Flying Cloud models, but it also produced a wide array of trucks and busses. By 1907, REO had gross sales of $4.5 million, and the company was one of the four wealthiest automobile manufacturers in the U.S.
In this episode, Rick looks at a 1909 REO, created by Ransom E. Olds, which features a unique centrally-mounted, horizontally opposed two-cylinder engine. Rick explores the unusual design choices and its innovative features, including a distinctive five-passenger layout and unusual pedal arrangement. The video details its surprisingly complex operation for a seemingly simple vehicle.
This 1909 REO is powered by a 213 cubic-inch, two-cylinder engine making 20 horsepower. It has a two-speed planetary transmission, three-quarter elliptic front springs with full elliptic rear springs and rear wheel drum brakes, all on a 96-inch wheelbase.
Come and see this collector car the next time you visit the Martin Auto Museum, which is a fully operational vehicle and an excellent example of the brand.