Descrição
If you are looking for an affordable entry point into the exciting world of Edwardian car ownership, then this 1916 Maxwell Model 25 surely fits the bill.
With its vestigial bodywork the Maxwell looks every inch the Edwardian ?raceabout? and is reminiscent of the car that made a record ascent of the Mount Wilson Hillclimb in California.
The Maxwell-Briscoe Motor Corporation was established in 1904 in Tarrytown, New Jersey and at one time was considered to be one of the top three automobile manufacturers in America, along with Ford and General Motors. After financial collapse in 1912, Jonathan Maxwell salvaged what was left of the company and formed the Maxwell Motor Corporation in Detroit.
Introduced in 1914, the Model 25 was an inexpensive car along the lines of the Model T Ford, albeit with conventional transmission. It initially retailed for $695 and featured a 3 litre side valve 4-cylinder engine with high tension magneto ignition, electric horn and optional electric starter and headlights. Gearbox was a conventional three speed and there were brakes on the rear wheels only. There also was an innovative shock absorber to protect the radiator.
Maxwells gained a reputation for rugged reliability and their publicity campaigns included a cross-continent road trip of 22, 000 miles non-stop.
This particular car was purchased by our vendor a number of years ago as a mechanically complete project. Lockdown provided the impetus to restore the car which involved making the bodywork (the bonnet, radiator and bulkhead are original) in the style of the Mount Wilson car.
Mechanical work has included the fitment of a new CWP, con rods and pistons, flywheel, a relined cone clutch and new hubs, modified to take well based tyres.
The car is finished in an attractive colour combination of grey with black wings and red leather seats.
Used sparingly since completion, the Maxwell will happily cruise at 50mph. The engine is very flexible and top gear can be used nearly all the time. The Maxwell is reluctantly for sale to make way for an exciting new project.
The accompanying file includes V5C, VSCC 'buff form' and copies of the Instruction Book and Parts List. There is also a spare dynastart and an original dashboard switch panel.
The Edwardian scene is flourishing under the umbrella of the VSCC and this charming speedster provides an inexpensive way to join the fun.
A video of the car can be viewed on the St Andrews Autos YouTube channel.
Thank you for reading.
