1909 Premier Model 4-40 Touring

Description

During the early stages of automobile manufacturing, Indianapolis was regarded by some as the hub of the automobile, boasting some of America's most esteemed car manufacturers, notably The Stutz Motorcar Company and Premier. Like other contemporaries, Premier utilized racing as a means to enhance its road car development, notably showcasing three entries in the 1916 Indianapolis 500 as their most celebrated display. Premier cars were distinguished by their advanced technical features from their inception. Initially leaning towards air-cooled designs, the shift to water-cooled engines occurred in 1907, becoming a standard feature across all models by 1908. In 1909, Premier introduced their 4-40 model equipped with a 40-horsepower T-head 340 cubic inch inline-four cylinder engine. Adhering to the prevalent trend of high-quality motorcars of that era, it boasted a four-speed transmission, a shaft drive rear axle, and could comfortably seat five individuals. Available solely in roadster and tourer models, the 40 was priced at $3,000.

Highlights

• Offered from The John Wilson Collection of Fallbrook, California following long-term ownership of over 20 years

• A highly desirable American brass-era tourer

• 340 cu-in four-cylinder “T-Head" engine producing 40 horsepower

• Distributor ignition

• Three-speed sliding gear transmission

• Leather upholstery with wool carpeting in the rear

• Acetylene Rushmore “Searchlight” headlamps with running board mounted Presto-lite Acetylene tank

• Kerosene “Neverout” cowl lamps

• Dashboard gauges featuring a Smith “Gasolene” meter and a New Ormond 8-Day clock

• Brass Warner Auto-Meter 60 mph speedometer, total distance odometer, and trip odometer gauge with accessory brass Warner clock

• Earl Auto Works “Earl Adjustable” brass windshield

• Numerous period brass badges including multiple California state registrations

• Offered with 17,467 miles at the time of listing; however, the true mileage is unknown   

Features

• Appears to feature its original body

• Three row bulb horn

• Rear-mounted wicker travel trunk

• Black canvas top with leather-wrapped bows

• Brass steering column

• Brass stirrup door handles

• Brass foot rail

• Rear leather door storage pockets

• Cast bronze water pump

• Pinstriped wood wheels with original Premier script hubcaps

• BFGoodrich Silvertown Cord tires

• Running board mounted spare tire

• Optima 12-volt blue-top battery mounted inside a running board mounted battery box with Squire brass lock

• Pinstriped leaf spring suspension

• Rear mechanical brakes

• 121 ½ inch wheelbase

Known Imperfections

• An older, aged restoration that features various paint cracks, chips and other blemishes endured on vintage car tours

• Please note that all vehicles offered from The John Wilson Collection of Fallbrook, California are currently in non-running condition following long-term storage in a climate-controlled storage building

Included

• Road tools including wheel wrench and jack

• Premier brochure

Ownership History

This 1909 Premier features multiple California state brass registration badges suggesting that it has early Golden State history. This Model 4-40 Touring entered The Fallbrook Collection in March 2003.

Additional Information

A Broad Arrow Group Car Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner for this vehicle.   

Contact: Donnie Gould Phone: 954.647.0779 email: donnie.gould@broadarrowgroup.com

Please note that all vehicles purchased from The John Wilson Collection of Fallbrook, California will need special arrangements for pick up as they are currently stored in a residential area with steep hills that will not accommodate large transport vehicles. It is recommended that a local flat-bed be used to transport them off the property.