I just had the automotive ride of my life

[TomInTib]

I have both owned and driven some of the finest cars ever made. I have also spent a lot of time with some very quirky autos.
From Model T to Formula cars. Rolls, XKE, Porsche (including Carrera GT). Bugatti, Corvair, Muscle cars, Ferrari, you get the idea.

But a friend and I spent this afternoon in a 1908 Stanley Steamer Semi-Racer Model K. Drove all over Tiburon and Belvedere. Took it to Mill Valley.

A car that runs on steam with a very efficient heat delivery system for the generation of that steam.

I am absolutely lost in the vapor.



The Model K was a speedy production model for two people and came with a rumble seat. It was intended for the fastest kind of road work while being entirely practical for every day use. The Model K used the same engine as the "Wogglebug" Special Racer that reached 127.66 mph at Ormond Beach, Florida in 1906.

Specifications: Model K; engine two-cylinder steam; bore 4-1/2 in., stroke 6-1/2 in., 26 in. boiler, 30 hp. Price new $1,800.

[jpak]

1. My uncles restored several Stanley's

Quiet as a mouse at low speed, but they sounded like steam locomotives when they got up to speed.

Always had them in the local parades...

[Kutjara]

2. What a wonderful machine.

You are indeed fortunate to have been able to experience a ride in such a fantastic car.

I'm amazed at the cost you quote. $1,800 in 1908 was nothing to sneeze at. You could probably have bought a fairly nice house in many parts of the country for half that.

I shall now sit back and try to imagine what 127.66 mph would feel like in a car like that. A combination of exhiliration and stark staring terror, I'd imagine. Especially around the corners.

[TomInTib]

3. I will never forget it

No windscreen and we had it up to probably 70mph at times. And you are indeed correct about the terror aspect. I have driven a car in excess of 200mph (McClaren F1 and a Top Fuel dragster) and felt more comfortable at that then I did today. An hour later and I am so adrenalized that I can barely type this.

The operating procedure alone is something to behold. Transferring water from tank to boiler, adjusting the burner levels and leaving behind a cloud of rapidly evaporating steam.

[petronius]

4. You have to transfer the water while you're driving?

Sounds problematic - if you have to steer and move water around at the same time, you won't have a free hand for the cell phone...

[TomInTib]

5. That is why Dog invented BlueTooth.

But no kidding, driving that car is as almost difficult and tricky as flying a helicopter.

[razors edge]

6. too sweet

running on #1 or #2 oil?

[TomInTib]

7. I honestly do not know.

I definitely plan to spend some more time with this car.

Absolutely fascinating.