Reference data
- Chassis: Hispano Suiza 12/15
- Engine: Hispano Suiza with a 4-cylinder 2212 cc engine and 20 HP
- Bodywork: unknown
- Entry into service: 1909
- Decal: does not have one
- Seats: 15
- Registration: B-352
Historical overview
Hispano-Suiza: pioneer of motoring in Spain
Hispano-Suiza began manufacturing cars around 1905, and would become, by far, the longest-running Spanish manufacturer, producing vehicles under that name until 1946, and later continuing under the Pegaso brand until 1994.
Among the Hispano-Suiza model range of the time, this chassis, which began production in 1908, was the smallest and most economical, as the manufacturer emphasised in its advertising.
The bodywork is the classic closed style of the era, derived from the limousine type: a berlina-galley with the driver and assistant seated up front, no doors, a first “noble” compartment with a transverse bench and door on the left side, and a second “galley” compartment with passengers seated back-to-back along the sides and a rear access door. The structure is ash-wood framed, with limited interior space and a roof luggage rack.
It’s surprising that the side door is only on the left, despite driving on the right, though it seems this was the custom of the era.
Photographs
