Lot details Registration No: DS 8652 Chassis No: AC76638 Mot Expiry: July 2007
Founded in 1904 by Jonathan Maxwell and Benjamin Briscoe, the Maxwell-Briscoe Motor Company soon developed a reputation for the quality and durability of its products. Powered by flat twin-cylinder engines and bedecked with Runabout / Roadster coachwork, early Maxwell cars featured mechanically-operated inlet valves, thermo-siphon cooling and shaft drive. An eager participant in the American Automobile Association's legendary Glidden Tours held between 1905 and 1913, Maxwell was one of only three teams to complete the 1911 event with a perfect score (an impressive feat after 1,476 miles of time checks). Migrating from Tarrytown, New York to a purpose-built factory in New Castle, Indiana during 1907-8, Maxwell began to experiment with four-cylinder designs. Although, the twin-cylinder models which so neatly embodied the company's 'Simply Perfect, Perfectly Simple' motto remained a staple part of the range until 1912 (by which time the Messenger was listed at $625).
Finished in blue with black deep-buttoned upholstery, this particular right-hand drive example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (16hp twin-cylinder engine, two-speed planetary transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, wheels / tyres) or "very good" (bodywork, paintwork) condition. Reputedly presented new to a Dr Davis of Plainfield, New Jersey as a gift from his grateful patients, the Maxwell is said to have been laid-up by the good doctor between 1920 and 1940 before returning to its original dealer. Apparently imported to the UK direct from that same supplying garage many years later, the AC Messenger entered the current ownership in 1990 or thereabouts. The subject of an older restoration, it is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until July 2007.
PLEASE NOTE: We have not had this vehicle running.
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