Highlights

Handcrafted by talented engineer Ray Milliken in 1995
Unique steam-powered vehicle based on North American steam car designs
Boiler test valid until September 2025
Hydraulic test runs until 11-6-31
Bimini top added by current owner
Capable of 40mph with a range of approximately 60 miles on a tank of fuel

The Appeal

From the 1850s to the very early Edwardian era, the steam car was law on the road. It was a line of pioneers, of different boiler pressures, weights, speeds and cylinder-assemblies, and even as late the 1970s, you could still get your paws on a steam lorry. There's a few benefits - though we hasten to add it's very few indeed - mostly ranging from the unusual chugging character to the durability of slow-moving steam components. Now, it's practically the ultimate curiosity.

In a world that's obsessed with heritage, steam and curiosities, it's little wonder that some talented grease-gloved steam specialists got to work recreating a uniquely eccentric magic. Ray Milliken was one of these - an enthusiast with the know-how to build everything from miniature locomotives to half-scale steam lorries to cars to remote-controlled boats and skis. His work has become the stuff of legend since his passing in the 2018, and it's not often any sector sees a Milliken project come up for sale.

This little four-seater steam car, then, is a real once-in-a-lifetime prospect. Milliken fabricated nearly everything himself, including the chassis, boiler, engine, and body.

The current owner, who has extensive experience with steam vehicles including a veteran 1903 Stanley, describes this as "By some way, the easiest steam car to operate" and notes its build quality compared to other replicas. The vehicle has been thoughtfully maintained with the current owner repainting and relining the car, adding a Bimini top, and ensuring the boiler is properly tested and certified. For enthusiasts of alternative propulsion or early automotive technology, this represents a rare opportunity to acquire a functional, well-engineered steam car that combines historical charm with practical usability.

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History and Paperwork

Built in 1995 by engineer Ray Milliken and registered in 1996
Current owner purchased the vehicle after previously owning a quarter scale Traction Engine, a Likamobile replica Steam Car, and a veteran 1903 Stanley
Boiler has been improved with new tapered joints
Steam test valid until 17/09/2025, with seller offering to provide a new steam test with sale
UK registration Q606KKJ
Hydraulic test runs until 11-6-31
Videos of the vehicle in operation are available from the seller

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The Condition

Bodywork was repainted and relined by the current owner as the original paintwork was described as "very poor"
Finished in a handsome blue lined livery
Features a Bimini top added by the current owner
Unique seating arrangement with driver and one passenger facing forward, plus two rear-facing passenger seats
Tiller handle steering system
Equipped with a loud steam whistle operated by a lever
Right-hand drive configuration

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The Mechanics

688cc twin cylinder double acting steam engine
Chain transmission to the differential in the rear axle
Engine can be disconnected from the wheels via a dog clutch
Features a 24-volt central heating pressure burner running on kerosene
Boiler contains 400 vertical tubes and heats to 400psi steam pressure in approximately 20 minutes
Water consumption rate of approximately 1 gallon per mile with a 20-mile range before refilling
Fuel consumption of approximately 10mpg of kerosene with a 60-mile range on a full tank
Small disc brakes on the rear wheels operated by a pedal
Additional transmission hand brake
Reported to be capable of 40mph, though typically operated at 15-20mph
Includes high pressure oil pump for steam chest lubrication
Features a water level sight glass viewed via mirror by the driver
12-volt batteries have been replaced by the current owner

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.