1904 Humber 8.5HP Two-Cylinder Two-Seater
British automotive engineering produced some remarkable early machines, and the 1904 Humber 8.5HP Twin-Cylinder Two-Seater stands as a prime example.
This vehicle featured a twin-cylinder engine of about 1.0 liter (approximately 61 cubic inches) paired with a three-speed transmission, typically driving the rear wheels by chain.
Humber Ltd. developed this model as an enhanced version of their smaller cars, with engineering input from notable designers Louis Hervé Coatalen and John Budge during their early involvement with the company.
Humber marketed these vehicles at approximately £260 (about $1,260 at the time), targeting buyers who wanted more power than standard offerings provided.
The car utilized front and rear semi-elliptic leaf spring suspension and rear-wheel-only contracting band brakes, representing typical but proven technology of the period.
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