Locomobile Model 48 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Locomobile Model 48

The Locomobile Model 48 debuted in 1911, marking a pinnacle of early American luxury motoring and held its place until 1925. Locomobile, renowned for uncompromising craftsmanship, targeted the highest echelons of wealth, delivering cars to industrialists like Carnegie and Vanderbilt. Known as 'The Best Built Car in America,' each vehicle embodied meticulous attention to mechanical robustness and refined luxury, qualities that have lent the few surviving examples continued prestige at major concours events.

Model History

Locomobile's Model 48 represented the company’s most enduring and successful series, retaining its basic architecture for over a decade. After production ended, the Model 90 inherited much of its technical foundation. The Model 48 replaced earlier, smaller offerings and, with its sophisticated engineering, set a new benchmark for luxury automobiles in the United States. Variants included a range of factory and custom bodies, from limousine to convertible sedan or phaeton, built in collaboration with renowned Connecticut coachbuilders.

Highlights of the Locomobile Model 48

Every Locomobile Model 48 featured a 7.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, with taxed horsepower initially stated as 48 and later reaching actual outputs of around 107 hp during the 1920s. The chassis incorporated chromenickel steel, leaf springs of high-quality alloy, and employed exclusive bronze-alloy crankcases and carburettors. Interior appointments included bespoke leather upholstery, a comprehensive Waltham instrument cluster, and lavish comfort elements such as silk roller blinds and intercoms. The car’s prestigious image was further underlined with polished nickel-plated details and the option for elaborate monograms and custom trim.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

While every Locomobile Model 48 was tailored to customer preferences, especially those requesting unique bodies or interior accommodations, there were no officially named limited editions. Noteworthy, however, are custom orders that featured enhanced luxury touches—Rolls-Royce-style bonnets, exclusive paintwork, and custom embroidery. Several one-off limousines and phaetons were built to individual commission and may be considered especially collectible for their provenance and unique features.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Period sources emphasise the Model 48’s exceptional longevity and mechanical strength, credited to its pioneering use of advanced alloys and high manufacturing standards. However, due to the high intrinsic value of its bronze and alloy components, many cars were scrapped for materials, explaining the rarity today. Original parts are now extremely scarce, making restoration challenging and parts sourcing a specialist concern.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The 7.0-litre six-cylinder (T-head) provides remarkable smoothness and considerable torque, with actual output peaking around 107 hp in the early 1920s. The powertrain’s refinement was echoed in extremely silent running and a sense of robustness even by chauffeur-driven standards. Handling is stable for its scale, aided by the extra-long wheelbase and advanced metallurgy in suspension components. The car was frequently chosen as a chauffeur-driven limousine but also offered as a phaeton or convertible—maintaining comfort and performance regardless of configuration. Notable body variants included the chauffeur limousine (with open driver compartment in black leather), Landaulet, Phaeton, Cabriolet, and Convertible Sedan, all typically featuring bespoke interiors, walnut-trim dashboards, and advanced period instrumentation.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Model 48’s construction placed a premium on tailor-made appointments, especially in the rear passenger compartment: fully enclosed, insulated, and rich with thick fabrics, high-grade carpets, vases, grab handles, triple glass division, and jump seats. Exterior elements were meticulously executed, including polished nickel bumpers and radiator surrounds, wood-spoked wheels, and period-appropriate spare tire mountings. Many examples boasted custom monograms, special lines, or even Rolls-Royce-inspired hoods. Instrument panel assemblies often featured signature Locomobile trademarks, including numbered chassis sills and Westinghouse-branded auxiliary gauges.

Other Noteworthy Features

No external coachbuilder plaque was present when the body was constructed outside the company’s own workshop—a rare stance for the period. Standard accessories ranged from intercoms to the driver, elaborate lighting fixtures at the running boards, and a host of optional security and comfort items. Many details were specified to the customer’s wishes, resulting in a high degree of individuality among surviving cars.

Summary

The Locomobile Model 48 epitomises the extraordinary standards of American luxury car manufacturing in the early 20th century. With its monumental engine, exceptional materials, hand-finished interiors, and stark rarity, the Model 48 remains a significant reference point for collectors and historians. Surviving examples command respect for their historical, technical and aesthetic achievements.