2025 |
Amelia Island Auctions1910 Stevens-Duryea Model XXX Runabout Roadster
From The William Alley Collection
Estimate
$80,000 - $125,000| Without Reserve
Chassis
18048
Engine
815
Car Highlights
Rare Runabout Roadster; One of Only Three Known Extant
Formerly in The William G. Lassiter Jr. Collection
Part of The William Alley Collection for More than 25 Years
Popular Concours Show Exhibit in the Northeast
HCCA Tour Eligible
Technical Specs
318 CID L-Head Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
24 HP
3-Speed Manual Gearbox
2-Wheel Mechanical Drum Brakes with Transmission Brake
Front Solid Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs
Rear Live Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs
Alongside their four-cylinder Touring Car, Stevens-Duryea’s sporting Runabout Roadster matched the trend for runabout cars in this era. It was badged as the XXX and utilized the same “three-point” 24 hp engine in a desirable, short 109" wheelbase.
This Model XXX Runabout Roadster can trace its history back to the 1950s. According to its listing when sold by former owner William G. “Bill” Lassiter Jr., the car was discovered by Leland Zylstra of Idaho in the mid-1950s, then stored until its acquisition by Mr. Lassiter in 1981. By then, its body had been modified to a raceabout style and it was restored by Mr. Lassiter back to the correct runabout configuration. Guided by David Reed, owner of a sister car, a faithful reproduction of the sporty body was built, while respected restorer Jack Dietz was on staff to oversee the technical aspect. Following completion of the restoration in 1988, the car immediately garnered accolades, receiving an AACA National First Prize in 1989. Mr. Lassiter kept chassis 18048 until the sale of his collection in 1999, when it was purchased by William Alley. Under Mr. Alley’s ownership, it has been further improved with the addition of a windshield and Stevens-Duryea branded headlamps.
In 2020, the car was throughly inspected by G&G Restorations of Proctorsville, Vermont, with attention to the cooling system and carburetion. Today, it presents in exemplary and well-detailed cosmetic order.