Tiny (car)

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Tiny was a British cyclecar manufactured by Nanson, Barker & Co at Esholt, Yorkshire between 1912 and 1915.[1]

The first car, the 8hp, produced in 1912 was powered by an air cooled JAP V-twin engine, 3 speed gearbox and chain drive[1]. Unlike many cyclecars a differential was fitted to the rear axle. The 2 seater bodywork was in aluminium with a wheelbase of 96 inches (2440 mm)[2] and the range included a van. Springing was half elliptical springs front and rear and braking was by external bands on the rear wheels. The car cost about £100 and was claimed to be capable of 50 mph (80 km/h). It was exhibited at the 1912 London Motor Cycle show.

In 1913 the engine was replaced by a water cooled Precision, V twin of 964 cc. There were other improvements including changing the brakes to internal expanding and replacing the chain with shaft drive. The price rose to £135.[1]

Just before the outbreak of war, in mid 1914, came the final Tiny called the 10/15. This one was a proper light car and had a 4 cylinder Dorman engine of 1177 cc. It cost £157.

It is uncertain how many Tinys were made but output was small.

After World War I, the same company produced cars under Airedale brand.[1]

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b c d Georgano, N. (2000). Beaulieu Encyclopedia of the Automobile. London: HMSO. ISBN 1-57958-293-1. 
  2. ^ Culshaw; Horrobin (1974). Complete Catalogue of British Cars. London: Macmillan. ISBN 0-333-16689-2.