| Long before the
famous car bearing the Dodge name was announced in 1914, John and
Horace Dodge had built the vital parts for almost half a million cars
in their Hamtramck plant. They were both completely loyal to their
principal customer, Henry Ford, insisting that the Ford was the best
piece of mechanism ever put on the American market for the money.
However, they aimed at building an even better product. On November
14, 1914 the first Dodge car, a touring model, was adjudged ready
for sale. In what little time remained of that first year, there were
249 Dodges produced and sold; the next year production skyrocketed
to 45,033. The 1914-produced model boasted an all-steel body for the
low price of $785. It had a 12-volt, 40-ampere battery for starter,
lights and horn and featured a windshield which could be adjusted
for "rain vision, clear vision and ventilating." Dodge Bros.'
long experience in the motor industry was outstandingly evident in
the simple, reliable engine they used. It was a 30-35 h.p., four-cylinder,
L-Head type with bore and stroke of 3 7/8 X 4 1/2"; top speed
was 63 mph. Other specifications: selective sliding gear type transmission;
110 inch wheelbase; hickory wheels with demountable rims, 32 X 3 1/2"
tires; Timken bearings throughout; weight, 2200 pounds. |
