In 1896, the Haynes-Apperson Company was formed, and for the 1902 model year, three options were presented to customers: the two-seater 7 HP Runabout, the two-seater 12 HP Phaeton, and the four-seater 12 HP Surrey. The latter was their flagship offering at $1,800. Steering was still tiller-derived but a steering wheel was available as an optional extra.

This example, chassis 74, is a 12 HP Surrey model, with seating for four and powered by a twin-cylinder engine in excess of 4 litres. Of note on this Haynes-Apperson is the 1902 horseless carriage-style bodywork, and the impressive four-clutch 1902 gearbox with its geared reverse, which was modified to a chain unit for later 1903 cars. The car is one of the earliest vehicles to be equipped with a left-hand-drive steering wheel.

Inspected by the Veteran Car Company in 2017, chassis 74 has been dated as a 1902 example. The car previously had a removable double-rear seat mounted on the engine cover, allowing for up to six passengers. Bidders should note the car no longer has this seat, and a new one would need to be fabricated.

This Surrey was reported by the Antique Automobile Club of America as part of William F. Harrah’s collection in 1968. It was sold at the 1978 dispersal auction as a restoration project. Likely changing hands in the 1980s, chassis 74 was restored prior to its import into the United Kingdom in April 1990, then for the noted Veteran Car Club member Clive Williams.

Entering the Haynes-Apperson Surrey into multiple London to Brighton runs, Mr. Williams parted ways with chassis 74 in 2000. Veteran car specialist Robert Cleminson was the next proprietor and another VCC member. He sold the car at auction in 2004 to the current consignor. They have enthusiastically cared for and maintained this wonderful veteran car over the last 20 years. Many modifications have been made to improve the reliability and functionality of the car.

This Haynes-Apperson Surrey has been fielded in nearly 30 London to Brighton events. The consignor is regularly joined by Andy Green—the only man to have ever driven at the speed of sound. The Haynes-Apperson’s easy 25 mph cruising speeds and 45 mph top speed make for an enjoyable veteran entrant.

The car is offered with an entry into this year’s run on 3 November 2024. A rare sight to see on British roads, it is sure to draw interest from veteran car enthusiasts looking for something different and to enjoy the capable nature of a large, reliable, and powerful multi-seat veteran.