This 1913 Stevens Duryea C Six was a touring car with aluminum fenders and body and the engine in the model is a 6-cylinder, 490 c.i. rated at 44.6HP with a 131 inch wheel base. It features air start and is the first year for electric lights and horn. Stevens Duryea made about 100 cars per year and there about are only 10 of this model known and the selling price was $4,500. In 1917 the owner, a California rancher, caught his sons using this vehicle to chase rabbits and put it in the barn until it was sold to a well driller in the 1940’s. It was restored in 1989 with 3,500 miles and won first in its class at Pebble Beach.
Manufacturer: Stevens-Duryea was an American automobile manufacturer based in Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts. It was founded by J. Frank Duryea and his brother Charles Duryea, who were pioneers in the automotive industry and known for their earlier work on the first gasoline-powered car in the United States.
Design and Body: The 1913 Stevens-Duryea C Six was a luxury touring car designed for affluent buyers who sought comfort and style. It typically featured a large, spacious body with an open-top touring design, allowing passengers to enjoy the open road in comfort.
Engine and Performance: The "C Six" designation indicates the engine configuration, which in this case was a six-cylinder inline engine. During this period, six-cylinder engines were considered advanced and offered smoother operation compared to earlier four-cylinder designs. The exact specifications of the engine in the 1913 model may vary, but it would have provided sufficient power for the car's size and weight.
Technology and Features: The Stevens-Duryea C Six incorporated advanced automotive technology for its time. Features such as electric lighting, pneumatic tires, and possibly a more refined suspension system would have enhanced the driving experience and comfort compared to earlier automobiles.
Market Position and Reputation: Stevens-Duryea positioned itself as a manufacturer of high-quality, luxury automobiles aimed at discerning customers who valued craftsmanship and performance. The brand's reputation for reliability and durability helped it establish a niche in the competitive American automotive market of the early 20th century.
Legacy and Collectibility: Today, the 1913 Stevens-Duryea C Six is a rare and highly collectible classic car. Its historical significance, combined with its elegant design and limited production numbers, makes it a prized possession among automotive enthusiasts and collectors of early American automobiles.
Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print of the 1913 Stevens Duryea C Six in our dElegance 2016 online gallery.
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