Old US

Believed to be the Last Example: 1916 Detroiter Model 6-45 Touring _s2

admin December 31, 2024

This 1916 Detroiter Model 6-45 Touring Car, with an aerodynamic dual-cowl body, is believed to be the only surviving six-cylinder vehicle from the independent “assembled” automobile manufacturer located in Detroit, Michigan. Detroiters were previously produced with four-cylinder and early V8 engines between 1912 and 1915. The Model 6-45 was an all-new car, introduced in 1916, with a Continental Motors six-cylinder engine. Production ended in 1917 after sales of just 778 vehicles. The nut and bolt restoration of this example was undertaken by Bryan Joseph “about 30 years ago” according to the seller, who says that the car continues to present “beautifully.” Assembled automobiles like the Detroiter utilized components produced by many reputable suppliers and represented a popular means to enter the early auto industry with minimal capital investment.

FEATURES

The seller identifies this automobile as the only surviving example of a Detroiter 6-45.
A thorough restoration is said to have been undertaken about 30 years ago.
Photos provided appear to show that the restoration has been well maintained.
The all-new 6-45 of 1916-’17 featured a Continental W7 six-cylinder engine.
The 222.9-cu.in. L-head inline-six was advertised to produce 45 horsepower.
Power went to the rear wheels through a three-speed manual transmission.
The restored engine is stated to be original to this car.
The five-passenger open touring car was one of five bodies offered.
The body style is distinguished by the streamlined dual-cowl configuration.
The restoration was finished in Eggshell White with beige fenders and undercarriage.
The finish is described as in “beautiful” condition, according to the seller.
No blemishes are reported.
A beige fabric top and top boot piped in red are present.
The interior appears to continue to present to the same high standard as the exterior.
Button-tufted red leather seats stand out in the interior.
Red leather also covers the doors and interior trim panels.
A restored wood dash panel includes a full complement of early gauges and controls.
The restored undercarriage appears cleanly throughout in the photos provided.
Very light use can be observed on chassis components.
The car rides on red, 33-inch wooden artillery-style wheels with beige demountable rims.
Wide-whitewall tires are fitted.
The odometer reading of 22,217 miles may be original but is not confirmed.
This automobile was included in Automobile Quarterly and Car Collector magazines.

1916 Detroiter Model 6 45 7W18257 Eggshell White with beige Red leather Continental 223-cu.in. L-head inline-six

COMES WITH

Various manuals of the Detroiter 6-45 will be included with the sale.
Copy of Automobile Quarterly 37/4 is included.

NEEDS

No current needs are identified by the seller.

OVERVIEW

This Detroiter 6-45 is identified by the seller as the only known survivor.
The restoration continues to present remarkably well in photos.
All details are complete and believed to be correct by the standards of the restoration.
No cosmetic or mechanical needs are identified.
This unique automobile would be a notable addition to a collection or museum.

DOCUMENTATION

The seller states that this vehicle will be sold on a clean Arizona title in her name. This 1916 Detroiter 6-45 Touring has undergone an older, high-quality restoration that appears to present to continuing high standards. Given the strength of the restoration and the status as the sole surviving Detroiter 6-45, this automobile would seem to be welcome in any private early automobile collection or museum display. Note: Although the Detroiter 6-45 is titled as a 1916 model, previous research indicates that it is probably a 1917 model.