Brass era wisdom and insight

As I get older, my tastes seem to be drifting further in the direction of the dawning of the automobile era. I find myself looking more and more at brass cars, but I have very little experience being around them or having close car buddies (only a couple friends have them and the are distant from me) who can share their experience with me.

I can see a lot of wisdom in grabbing a brass model T….. for all the obvious reasons. I’m wondering if you had a little more expanded budget and were looking for something well built but larger with more horsepower, what opinions are out there on a great brass car platform in that 35K-50K price range?

Asking for a friend….? 😊

Oct 19, 2026

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Replies (33)

· 1w

I'd consider a Buick Model 10.
Very similar in operation. Easy to work on, OHV engine, lots of brass and a very beautiful car when painted white.
It was the "gentleman's express" of the Model T sized cars.

· 1w

Shawn, I like those Buick’s as well. I’ve been reading a little bit about them, it’s amazing how in that brass era from 1910 to 1915, it seems like every year they had at least 3 to 5 different models each having different wheel bases and each having different engines. It’s hard to keep them all straight. They had things from 90 inches to 130 inch wheelbase and power plants with a wide range of displacement.

Having said all that, the Buicks of the brass era are on my radar and really attractive. I have never ridden in one let alone driven one.

· 1w

I can attest that a Buick Model 10 is a little jackrabbit to drive.

· 1w

Good topic, John. As you probably noticed by my recent brass car thread, this is something that I’ve been considering lately. Something with a bit more oomph/seats seems like a better move than the little Hupp runabout I was considering. Interested to hear some input.

· 1w

Travis, I’d like to hear from the brass crowd as well. I’m interested in hearing where cost, value, and performance intersect at different price points and some suggestions of cars that guys have personal experience with.

· 1w

For reliability and support you can’t beat a Model T but there are many larger good cars to consider. I am always amazed at the number of owners of larger and more powerful brass cars also have a Model T in their stables. Many of those owners use their T’s on the various HCCA tours I read about in the Gazettes.

· 1w

Jeff, I’ve noticed that too. I know people that have huge brass cars and they also have a brass T. And they love their model T’s.

I would absolutely consider one, but I’m curious to hear about cars that have a longer wheelbase, more weight and more horsepower . I suspect in some cases they also have more headaches.

· 1w

This is what little I know.  Cost is based on the following:

1.  Premium for chain drive
2.  Premium for more polished brass
3.  Premium for bigger engine
4.  Premium for no front doors
5. Premium for provanance

I've seen some cars that satisfy 2 or 3 of these 5 seem like a bargain.

· 1w

I've driven a Crane Simplex Model 5 and it felt like I was piloting a locomotive.
The torque from that massive engine is really something.
Model T's are fun but you wouldn't take one on the interstate.

· 1w

With all due respect I wouldn’t take any brass car on the Interstate!

(edited)

· 1w

Speaking of brass T’s, just saw this one yesterday. The charm is undeniable.

· 1w

Agree! This one is for sale near me…..

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· 1w

For perspective since model T’s inherently are a part of this conversation, I show from a reliable database that a 1914 Model T Ford had a 100 inch Wheelbase, a 177 cubic inch four-cylinder, and weighed 1200 pounds.

· 1w

Here you go, from the Prewarcar site, a Chenard Walcker. It's got fake cane, real cane, a lot of brass, a mascot and a lawnmower engine (so really only 2 out of the 5) but you'd be the only one with one on the side of the road, I mean driving down the road.😄

· 1w

😂

· 1w

John here in CT a pretty active group of 30 - 40 somethings (Fairfield County AACA & HCCA came together and operate as one club, essentially.) Have been bringing brass back. They do a lot of tours and local events. I figure by now you have been in touch with Alex Dragone - next time you chat Locos ask him about the brass guys. Come to CT and maybe we can bum some rides...

(edited)

· 1w

Steve, I will accept your invitation and work with you offline for a date on the calendar!

· 1w

Speaking from experience, a Model T is easier to push than larger brass cars. Just saying-

· 1w

😂

· 1w

Brass era cars are a lot of fun especially touring. My father, Hyde Ballard, acquired his first brass Packards in 1937, the year before I was born. Consequently, I experienced many years of driving antique cars. Model T's are great cars but for long tours you might want to consider something more robust. There are plenty of good choices without getting in to the high end category. Perhaps Jonathan Sierakowski can chime in with some ideas and prices. If you are going to be in CT I can line you up with a collector/restorer who owns brass cars including some outstanding Packards.

· 1w

Great topic! HCCA is an active club with a great magazine. Be sure to join and learn before buying anything.

· 1w

Thanks for pointing out an obvious no brainer to me. I have great respect for the HCCA but I’m not a member, I will correct that.

· 1w

John, here are some interesting books pertaining to the older cars that I own. You might want to search a few out through the internet and some are often available through inter library loan. I also have HCCA Gazettes back to about 1962.

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· 1w

I agree with joining the HCCA. Lots of tours and a great magazine. Closest I've come to a brass car is lusting after this one. Which for some unknown reason can't find a home.

· 1w

That is a lot of car….. I too am an admirer.

· 1w

John, he is practically giving it away. Why don't you step up? 😂

· 1w

I need a stable long term clubhouse before I bring any more stray dogs home. But I will graciously buy the first tank of gas for any of my buddies that would move forward with this cool car.

· 1w

Some pics I’ve saved of this car….motor is a work of art.

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· 1w

I want to send the seller Glenn as email and ask him what is going on. This car should have found a home many higher asking prices ago. I just don't understand.

John, it is very gracious of you to offer to buy the first tank of gas. At 6 miles to the gallon that will last about 80 miles.

· 1w

Just sitting, not moving, that car looks thirsty

· 1w

I never worry about fuel economy in a "fun" car.

· 1w

Agreed. The big prewar cars seem to do around 8 miles the to gallon. I'm thinking this Crane-Simplex is closer to 5 or 6.

· 1w

A friend with a Loco from that era told that is about what theirs gets . It takes a lot to fill over 500 cubic inches of space with gas vapor.