Manufactured from 1902 through 1934, the Franklin was the longest and most successful air-cooled automobile in America.
Franklin was a luxury car maker and competed with other upscale automobiles. During 1932 Franklin cars were priced in the thousands of dollars. Other auto makers during the Great Depression would price cars between $500.00 and $600.00.
Franklins were economical in the consumption of gas and tire wear, due to lightweight design. Franklin established a cross-country record of 28.8 miles per gallon by the end of 1928.
The Franklin Airman was a favorite vehicle with organized crime rings. Since law enforcement would try to disable a vehicle by shooting at its radiator, an air cooled motor (which has no radiator to shoot at) had a distinct advantage over other vehicles.
Come see this automobile among the 168 classic cars we have in our Auto Museum Complex!