1914 Benz 18/45 Four Passenger Runabout

By the end of the 20th Century’s first decade, the automobile had left its primitive ‘horse-less carriage’ antecedents far behind, thanks, in no small measure, to Karl Benz.

In America meanwhile, the focus of development had been on production techniques that effectively ‘democratized’ the motor car, making it an affordable means of transportation for the masses and no longer the exclusive preserve of the wealthy dilettante. In the halcyon days before the outbreak of the First World War though, there were sufficient numbers of the latter to make the production of large luxury cars a highly profitable enterprise.

The major overseas players on the American scene at this time were Rolls-Royce and Benz, the latter’s distributorship – the Benz Auto Import Company of America – being located on Broadway, New York City. In 1911, Benz chassis prices ranged from $3,250 for the 18hp up to $8,500 for the 60hp, and this at a time when a new Ford Model T could be purchased for under $700! If custom coachwork of the finest quality was specified, the total cost of a Benz could reach stratospheric heights.

Benz could command these prices due to their excellent quality but also because of the sterling reputation they had built through competition. The 21-liter Blitzen Benz had established a series of land speed records culminating in a 141.7 mph run at Ormond Beach Florida. This outright land speed record stood till 1919.

Prior to World War 1 Benz produced a wide array of motor and chassis combinations. Models ranged from the petite 6/14 up to the massive 82/200 Blitzen. The 18/45 model was in the upper half of the Benz range a represented a sweet spot for size and performance. The well-engineered engine made 45hp with only an 18hp taxable size. The smooth running and efficient L-Head design attributed to this efficient power output. At nearly five liters it is a healthy sized four cylinder. The attractive motor is made up of two “cast in pairs” cylinders mounted to an aluminum crank case.

The crown jewel of this example is the V radiator. Fitted to some but not all 18/45 chassis it has the iconic appearance of the later Mercedes-Benz models. The motor runs through a smooth-shifting Benz four-speed transmission.

Attractive brass lights and accessories complete the package of this well-turned-out motorcar. The car wears the charismatic, tough non-standard, coach work it was acquired with and makes the car quite sporty and nimble. Not burdened by the heavy coach work typical of the era the Benz is surprisingly spirited and a great attention getter. A fun, well-running example from one of the great names of the pre-war era. 

The Ron Sturgeon Collection