1915 White Model Thirty Roadster

White, made in Cleveland, Ohio, was known in the pre-1910 era as the greatest and highest quality steam powered car in the world. Even President William Taft owned a White. By 1911 the internal combustion engine was largely the favored type of engine used in motorcars, so White decided to make the transition from steam to gasoline power for their cars. The first gasoline-powered model was the GA, mechanically copied from the French Delahaye that White had purchased at the New York motor show to dissect. Their gasoline cars were of very high quality and built very well, standing up to their previous reputation of their steam cars. From 1911 on they kept the same basic design for their 4 cylinder cars going forward for roughly the next 5 years. The engine was a 4 cylinder monoblock design rated at 30 horsepower mated to a 3 speed gearbox. They are smooth and agile and are great for touring. In 1915 the 30 horsepower chassis was stretched 5 inches to a 115 inch wheelbase giving it a more substantial presence.

Offered here is a wonderful original example of a rare 1915 Model Thirty roadster that is fresh from a Pennsylvania estate of over 60 years. This is one of two roadsters known to exist like this, the other residing in the Crawford Museum in Cleveland, Ohio. Most interestingly the bodies on both of these cars are certainly special and most likely custom ordered originally as the bodies look to be designed and built by one of the premier coachbuilders of the period, most likely Holbrook or Fleetwood by the details of the design. Interestingly it has a small folding seat in the rear part of the body that can be folded out for a rear passenger or folded completely flush and hidden away. Also sporting a Neville sliding aluminum steering wheel and dual rear spares. This is a nice original car that wears a light restoration from the 1960's, but has a great look. Upon our acquisition of the car we serviced it mechanically and most importantly we cleaned the fuel system and rebuilt the carburetor. It now runs and drives great. If you are looking for a high quality sporty early roadster to drive on tours and enjoy this car should be considered. Contact us today for more information.