Franklin Series 11 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Franklin Series 11

Franklin was a pioneering American car manufacturer based in New York, renowned for its commitment to air-cooled engines and lightweight aluminium construction. Established in 1902, Franklin quickly became a technological leader, introducing industry-firsts such as the 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines, and the use of aluminium pistons and connecting rods. The Series 11—produced in the mid-1920s—marked the last complete work of chief engineer J. Frank Wilkinson before his departure in 1926. This period was marked by Franklin’s fierce competition with luxury brands like Packard and Cadillac. Though the company thrived on innovation, the remote factory location, the 1929 stock market crash, and subsequent managerial and economic difficulties led to the brand’s closure in 1934. After the end of car production, key Franklin technicians continued to apply their expertise in developing air-cooled engines for aircraft until the mid-1970s.

Model History

The Franklin Series 11 stands as the final model entirely designed by Wilkinson, following a succession of innovative Franklin models. The Series 11 directly preceded later, heavier all-metal bodied Franklins introduced after 1928. Among its contemporaries were models such as the acclaimed 'Tandem Sport' special edition, created to commemorate the company's 25th anniversary. Successors to the Series 11 transitioned away from the traditional wooden frame with aluminium panels to fully metal body construction, reflecting advancements in automotive technology and changing tastes of the era.

Highlights of the Franklin Series 11

Air-cooling set Franklin apart in reliability and function, eliminating issues with frozen or boiling coolant that plagued other makes. The ingenious use of aluminium for body and engine components resulted in a car with low weight yet competitive performance. The Series 11 also debuted a visually striking radiator grille reminiscent of British luxury cars, although purely decorative as no water cooling was needed. Famous for its robust year-round operation, Franklins like the Series 11 were often considered the doctors’ car of choice for their dependable performance in all conditions.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The 'Tandem Sport' was the standout special edition of the Series 11, crafted for Franklin’s 25th anniversary. It was the lowest-production vehicle in the USA at the time following a revamp of the factory, and featured celebratory details such as unique paintwork and special design features. With a base price of $2,800 for the Series-11B and over $3,200 for the Tandem Sport, these models were priced significantly above mass market cars such as the Ford Model T of the era. The Tandem Sport is particularly notable among collectors due to its rarity and historical significance.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

While no pressing endemic weak spots are documented for the Franklin Series 11, owners should note that the wood/aluminium construction, while advanced for its time, requires specialised knowledge for restoration and maintenance. Sourcing parts is supported by an active Franklin Club in the USA, who maintain a detailed archive of documentation and offer community expertise. Surviving examples benefit from extensive manuals and original technical drawings, but professional assistance may be needed for authentic repairs, especially in Europe where Franklin expertise is rare.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Despite its relatively modest 3.3-litre displacement, the Franklin Series 11 provides lively performance thanks to its lightweight build—an outcome of advanced aluminium use and the brand’s focus on efficient engineering. The air-cooled inline-six operates reliably in both hot and cold climates, and the flexible power delivery suited the car equally well to urban and rural environments. Transmission is manual, typical of the era, offering direct control over the vehicle. Road manners are predictable, stable, and well-adapted to both period roads and modern oldtimer events. Highlights:

• Franklin Series 11B: 3.3-litre air-cooled inline-six, ~30hp, >65 km/h
• Tandem Sport: Special edition with lowered profile, celebratory paint and trim, and highest price point among Franklins

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Series 11 reflects American prestige through thoughtful design. Notably, it introduced a decorative radiator grille inspired by Rolls-Royce, even though functional cooling was not required. Bodywork features a yellow original paint with black accent stripes, and the aluminium panels are a testament to early lightweight construction. Inside, brown leather upholstery matched the original period pattern from the original supplier, and a distinctive mahogany lattice roof with dual silver ceiling lamps showcases attention to luxury and detail. Accessories include a 1930s radio with tube amplifier, rare for the period, and all factory-fitting trim items. Franklin’s combination of functionality, comfort, and understated American luxury is apparent throughout.

Other Notable Features

The Franklin Series 11 is recognised as a 'Full Classic' by the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA), making it eligible for top-tier concours and historic rallies in the United States. Out of approximately 150,000 Franklins built, only about 2% survive—very few in Europe—further elevating the rarity and collector appeal of the Series 11. Charles Lindbergh was famously given a Series 11 Franklin after his transatlantic flight, further cementing the model’s relevance in American motoring history.

Summary

The Franklin Series 11 articulates the best qualities of pre-war American innovation, with its pioneering air-cooled technology, lightweight aluminium construction, and a focus on year-round usability. Rarely seen outside the US, it’s one of the last true expressions of classic American engineering, appealing to collectors who value technical ingenuity, rarity, and historic significance in equal measure.