This 1909 Thomas Flyer 670 Flyabout is the same model of Thomas Flyer that participated in, and won, the 1908 New York to Paris Race.  These cars are powered by a 6-cylinder, 73 horsepower engine.

Production of the Thomas Flyer peaked in 1906 and fell to only 913 units in 1910 when staff salaries were reduced.  E.R. Thomas himself never learned to drive a car, sold his interest in the company.  The new company was too late to save Thomas and went into receivership on August 29, 1912.

Overview

• Production Year: 1909
• Manufacturer: Thomas Motor Company
• Model: Flyer 670 Flyabout
• Body Style: Flyabout (open-top touring car)

Design and Specifications

• Engine:
  • The Thomas Flyer 670 Flyabout is powered by a large, robust inline-6 engine.
  • The engine displacement is approximately 9.0 liters (904 cubic inches).
  • It produces around 70 horsepower, which was a substantial amount of power for the era.
• Transmission:
  • The car is equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission.
  • The gearbox is designed to handle the engine's torque and provide smooth gear changes.
• Chassis:
  • The chassis is constructed from high-quality steel, providing strength and durability.
  • The wheelbase measures around 130 inches (3,302 mm), offering stability and a comfortable ride.
• Suspension:
  • The front suspension consists of a solid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • The rear suspension features a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • This setup provides a balance between ride comfort and handling performance.
• Brakes:
  • The Thomas Flyer 670 Flyabout is equipped with mechanical drum brakes on the rear wheels.
  • These brakes provide adequate stopping power for the vehicle's speed and weight.

Performance

• Top Speed: The Thomas Flyer 670 Flyabout could achieve top speeds of around 60-70 mph (97-113 km/h).
• Acceleration: The powerful inline-6 engine provides strong acceleration, making the car capable of handling various driving conditions.
• Handling: The sturdy chassis and well-designed suspension offer good handling for the time, allowing for a comfortable and stable ride on both paved and unpaved roads.

Design Features

• Bodywork:
  • The body of the Flyabout is designed with both elegance and functionality in mind.
  • It features an open-top design with a stylish, streamlined profile.
  • The body is typically made from high-quality wood and metal, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
• Interior:
  • The interior is luxurious, featuring high-quality leather upholstery and wood trim.
  • The seats are designed for comfort, providing ample support for long journeys.
  • The dashboard includes essential gauges and controls, arranged in an elegant and functional layout.
• Styling:
  • The styling of the Thomas Flyer 670 Flyabout is characterized by its classic lines and attention to detail.
  • The car often features brass fittings and intricate design elements, adding to its visual appeal.
  • The overall design exudes sophistication and durability, making it a standout vehicle of its time.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Historical Significance:
  • The 1909 Thomas Flyer 670 Flyabout represents a pivotal moment in automotive history, showcasing the advancements in engineering and design of the early 20th century.
  • It highlights the Thomas Motor Company's commitment to quality and performance, solidifying its reputation in the automotive industry.
• Racing and Endurance:
  • The Thomas Flyer gained international fame after winning the 1908 New York to Paris Race, proving its reliability and engineering excellence.
  • This achievement demonstrated the car's capability to endure long-distance travel and harsh conditions.

Taken at the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance.

You may purchase a print of the 1909 Thomas Flyer 670 Flyabout in our dElegance 2013 online gallery.

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