The 1913 Regal Underslung is an iconic early American automobile known for its innovative design and distinctive styling. The Regal Motor Car Company, based in Detroit, Michigan, produced the Underslung as a high-performance, sporty car that stood out for its low center of gravity and advanced engineering for its time.
Here’s a detailed overview of the 1913 Regal Underslung:
Background
- Manufacturer: Regal Motor Car Company
- Year: 1913
- Model: Regal Underslung
Specifications
- Engine: The 1913 Regal Underslung is powered by a 4.9-liter (299 cubic inches) inline four-cylinder engine. This engine produces approximately 50 horsepower, providing robust performance for an early 20th-century automobile.
- Transmission: The car features a three-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the rear wheels.
- Chassis: The Regal Underslung is built on a unique underslung chassis, where the frame is mounted below the axles. This design lowers the car's center of gravity, improving handling and stability.
- Suspension: The front and rear suspension systems consist of semi-elliptic leaf springs, which were standard for the era and provided a comfortable ride.
- Brakes: The car is equipped with mechanical drum brakes on the rear wheels, which were typical for cars of this period.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The 1913 Regal Underslung features a distinctive and sporty design, characterized by its low-slung body, long hood, and sweeping fenders. It was available in various body styles, including roadster and touring car configurations.
- Design Elements: The car includes distinctive features such as a tall, vertical radiator, brass trim, and wooden artillery wheels. The design reflects a combination of elegance and innovation, setting it apart from other cars of its time.
- Interior: The interior of the Regal Underslung is simple yet functional, with seating for two to five passengers depending on the body style. The dashboard features basic instrumentation and controls, typical of early automobiles.
Performance
- Speed: The Regal Underslung is capable of reaching speeds of around 50-60 mph (80-97 km/h), which was quite impressive for a car in the early 1910s.
- Acceleration: The powerful four-cylinder engine provides strong and steady acceleration, making the car suitable for both city driving and open-road touring.
- Handling: The unique underslung chassis design offers excellent handling characteristics for its time. The low center of gravity and robust suspension system contribute to a stable and comfortable ride.
Historical Significance
- Innovative Design: The Regal Underslung’s underslung chassis was a groundbreaking innovation in automotive design. By lowering the car's center of gravity, it offered better handling and stability than many of its contemporaries.
- Market Impact: The Regal Underslung was aimed at affluent customers seeking a combination of performance and style. Its unique design and sporty appearance helped Regal Motor Car Company gain attention in the competitive early automobile market.
- Legacy: The Regal Underslung is remembered as one of the first American cars to emphasize performance and sporty styling. Its innovative design influenced future automotive engineering and design trends.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the 1913 Regal Underslung is a highly sought-after collectible among vintage car enthusiasts. Its rarity, historical significance, and distinctive design make it a valuable addition to any collection.
- Cultural Appreciation: The car is appreciated not only for its performance but also for its contribution to the early history of the automobile. It remains an iconic model that represents the innovation and elegance of early American automotive engineering.
- Enduring Appeal: The combination of vintage aesthetics, unique engineering, and historical significance ensures the Regal Underslung’s continued interest and admiration among collectors and automotive historians.
Summary
The 1913 Regal Underslung is a classic example of early American automotive innovation and design. With its powerful four-cylinder engine, unique underslung chassis, and distinctive styling, it stands out as a significant model in the history of the automobile. The Regal Underslung’s legacy in the automotive world, combined with its appeal among collectors, makes it a cherished piece of early 20th-century automotive heritage.
You may purchase a print of the 1913 Regal Underslung in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.