1902 Arrol-Johnston 10/12hp Dogcart
One of Britain’s earliest motor manufacturers emerged from an unlikely partnership between a railway bridge builder and a locomotive engineer. The Mo-Car Syndicate Ltd of Glasgow produced vehicles that reflected George Johnston’s railway background, featuring an opposed-piston flat-twin engine with connecting rods operating through different mechanisms on each cylinder.
The distinctive dogcart body accommodated six passengers arranged in three rows, with the driver positioned in the middle row rather than at the front. High ground clearance and solid tires made these vehicles well-suited to Scotland’s challenging road conditions of the era. Chain drive transmitted power from the gearbox to the rear axle, while spoon-type brakes acted directly on the rear wheels for parking.
Heavy duty construction characterized these early motorcars, which continued in essentially the same form until 1906, when their design began to appear antiquated. The company went through several reorganizations but remained in operation until 1931, making it one of the longest-surviving pioneer manufacturers.
This particular example was discovered abandoned in a quarry during the 1960s before undergoing restoration and returning to active use. Following a complete engine rebuild after crankcase damage, the car has successfully participated in more than ten London to Brighton Veteran Car Runs and numerous rallies, demonstrating the durability of Johnston’s original engineering concepts.
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