The Maxwell Brico Company introduced many innovations for the time with its 1911 Maxwell EA, including a 3-speed transmission and a tripod mounted engine. A T-head engine block and flywheel were mounted in the front for balance and state of the art body styling.

This vehicle was owned by one family until 1963 when it was purchased and restored. The restoration was completed in 1970 and it was awarded AACA 1st Junior and Senior Awards that year. The current owner purchased the car in 2011 and Speedwell Engineering returned it to its original condition.

It is estimated that only 15 of these cars survive.

Overview

• Make and Model: 1911 Maxwell Model EA
• Manufacturer: Maxwell-Briscoe Company
• Production Year: 1911

Specifications

• Engine: Inline four-cylinder engine
• Power Output: Approximately 22 horsepower
• Transmission: 2-speed planetary gear transmission
• Chassis: Sturdy steel frame with leaf spring suspension

Design and Features

• Body Style: The Maxwell Model EA was available in various body styles, including a touring car, roadster, and runabout.
• Exterior: Early 20th-century design with a high, boxy profile, open top, and wooden-spoke wheels. The vehicle featured large, round headlights and a simple, utilitarian aesthetic.
• Interior: Basic but functional interior with seating for two to four passengers, depending on the body style. The dashboard was minimalistic, with basic controls and instrumentation.

Historical Context

During the early 1900s, the automobile industry was in its infancy, and manufacturers like Maxwell were pioneering new technologies and designs. Maxwell was known for producing reliable and affordable cars, aiming to make automobiles accessible to a broader segment of the population.

Noteworthy Aspects

• Affordability: The Maxwell Model EA was positioned as a more affordable option compared to some of its contemporaries, making it a popular choice among middle-class Americans.
• Durability: Maxwell cars were known for their durability and reliability, which helped establish the brand's reputation in the competitive automotive market of the time.
• Historical Significance: The Maxwell-Briscoe Company played a crucial role in the early automotive industry. Despite eventually being absorbed into Chrysler, the Maxwell brand's innovations and contributions are remembered as part of automotive history.

Legacy

The Maxwell Model EA is part of the broader story of the early days of the American automobile industry. The innovations and business strategies of companies like Maxwell helped lay the groundwork for the development of more advanced and widespread automobile use in the United States.

Collectibility

Today, the 1911 Maxwell Model EA is a rare and valuable collector's item. Its historical significance, combined with the craftsmanship of early 20th-century automobiles, makes it a prized possession for vintage car enthusiasts and collectors.

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

You may purchase a print of the 1911 Maxwell EA in our dElegance 2016 online gallery.

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