1903 Oldsmobile Model R

The 1903 Oldsmobile Model R Curved Dash Runabout brought motoring within reach of ordinary Americans. Its single-cylinder, horizontally mounted engine delivered smooth, dependable torque through a two-speed planetary transmission, driving the rear wheels by chain. A lightweight, rigid frame, elliptical leaf springs, and tiller steering kept maintenance minimal and handling predictable.

The sculpted curved dash, borrowed from sleigh design, gave the compact body distinctive elegance. Ransom E. Olds' production methods, using standardized, interchangeable parts, enabled thousands of units to be built, making this runabout the first American car produced in significant volume and a milestone in automotive manufacturing.

The serial number of this Curved Dash Model R — 17138 — falls within the range for a 1903 Oldsmobile, placing it near the end of ‘03 production.

This car belonged to the seller’s parents, who took it to the 100th Oldsmobile Anniversary in Lansing, Michigan, in August 1997, and also entered it in the New London to New Brighton meet in August 2002, where it completed the trip. More recently, the seller says that it participated in a local Wings and Wheels event.