This 1910 Mitchell T Touring Car has a 4-cylinder 35HP engine and was manufactured by the Mitchell Motor Car Company in Racine, Wisconsin. The Mitchell Car Company produced high quality cars from 1901 to 1923.

This car has been on many brass car tours and was purchased in 2000 from the Stone Mountain, Georgia Museum.

The 1910 Mitchell T Touring is an exemplary model from the early era of the American automotive industry, reflecting the innovation and craftsmanship of the time. Mitchell Motor Car Company, based in Racine, Wisconsin, produced automobiles from 1903 until 1923. The 1910 Mitchell T Touring is a testament to the early advancements in automotive design and engineering.

Here’s a detailed overview of the 1910 Mitchell T Touring:

Background

• Manufacturer: Mitchell Motor Car Company
• Year: 1910
• Model: T Touring

Specifications

• Engine: The 1910 Mitchell T Touring is equipped with a four-cylinder, inline engine. Engines of this era typically had a displacement ranging between 4.0 to 5.0 liters, producing around 30 to 40 horsepower. This powerplant provided sufficient power for the relatively lightweight vehicle.
• Transmission: The car features a three-speed manual transmission, which was common for cars of this period. The gearbox is operated via a floor-mounted shifter, delivering power to the rear wheels.
• Chassis: The Mitchell T Touring is built on a robust ladder-frame chassis, providing the necessary rigidity and strength to support the body and mechanical components.
• Suspension: The car uses semi-elliptic leaf springs on both the front and rear axles. This suspension setup offers a balance between comfort and durability, suitable for the unpaved roads of the early 20th century.
• Brakes: The car is equipped with mechanical drum brakes, operated via a hand lever and foot pedal. Braking systems of this era were relatively primitive compared to modern standards but were adequate for the performance and speed of the vehicle.

Design and Features

• Body Style: The 1910 Mitchell T Touring is a touring car, characterized by its open-top design and seating for five passengers. The touring body style was popular during this period, offering a blend of practicality and leisure.
• Design Elements: The car features a tall, upright grille, brass headlamps, and a folding windshield. The body is made of wood and metal, with leather upholstery and a fabric convertible top. The design is elegant and functional, with a focus on craftsmanship.
• Interior: The interior of the Mitchell T Touring is simple yet functional, with bench seats upholstered in leather. The dashboard is minimalistic, featuring basic instrumentation such as a speedometer and oil pressure gauge. The steering wheel is large, facilitating easier maneuvering.

Performance

• Speed: The Mitchell T Touring is capable of reaching speeds of around 40 to 50 mph (64 to 80 km/h), which was impressive for cars of this era. This performance made it suitable for both urban and rural driving conditions.
• Handling: The car offers stable handling, thanks to its robust chassis and suspension setup. While not as agile as modern vehicles, it provides a comfortable and controlled ride for its time.

Historical Significance

• Early Automotive Innovation: The 1910 Mitchell T Touring represents the early days of automotive innovation, showcasing advancements in engine design, chassis construction, and overall vehicle reliability.
• Market Impact: The Mitchell T Touring was aimed at the growing middle class, providing an affordable yet well-built vehicle. Its success helped establish Mitchell Motor Car Company as a reputable manufacturer in the competitive automotive market of the early 20th century.
• Cultural Context: Cars like the Mitchell T Touring played a significant role in transforming personal transportation, making it accessible to a broader segment of the population and contributing to the growth of the automobile industry.

Legacy

• Collector's Item: Today, the 1910 Mitchell T Touring is a rare and valuable collectible among vintage car enthusiasts. Its historical significance, combined with its craftsmanship and design, makes it a prized addition to any collection of early automobiles.
• Cultural Appreciation: The car is appreciated not only for its engineering but also for its contribution to the early development of the automobile. It remains an iconic example of early American automotive history.
• Enduring Appeal: The combination of classic design, historical significance, and early automotive innovation ensures the Mitchell T Touring’s continued interest and admiration among collectors and automotive historians.

Summary

The 1910 Mitchell T Touring is a prime example of early American automotive engineering and design. With its four-cylinder engine, robust chassis, and elegant touring body style, it stands out as a significant model in the history of the automobile. The Mitchell T Touring’s legacy in the automotive world, combined with its appeal among collectors, makes it a cherished piece of motoring heritage.

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1910 Mitchell T Touring in our dElegance 2016 online gallery.

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