The Horseless Carriage becomes the Automobile
The tecnological advancements in automobiles manufactured between 1916 and 1924 transformed the crude “horseless carriage”, whose parts were mostly hand crafted, into a viable means of transportation. Not only did these machines have better mechanicals, increased horsepower and improved efficiency, they were also equipped with improved safety and comfort features for both drivers and passengers.
Driving was Becoming More Pleasurable
In this period, most American made automobiles had replaced the dangerous hand crank with electric self-starters. Kerosene lanterns were replaced with electric lighting, which resulted in better illumination for night driving. Automobiles were becoming more stylish with enclosed bodies to keep out the elements and windows that could be raised or lowered.
Cars were Becoming More Durable and Affordable
Automakers such as Ford, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, Buick, Oldsmobile, Packard and Studebaker were producing durable cars on mass production assembly lines, making it possible for more people to travel the countryside at a price they could afford. Smaller specialty manufacturers started building car components, adding to the growth and sustainability of an already booming automotive industry.
The Vintage Car Era was Filled with Choices
As the popularity of the auto grew, so did the number of entrepreneurial manufacturers. Some experimented with electric and steam, but more internal combustion engines were seen on the road with Packard’s development of the V-12. Other manufacturers produced straight-8s, V-8s and V-16s - by the end of the vintage era, the car buying public had over a thousand different names of automobiles to choose from with a variety of engine configurations.
