1912 Hispano-Suiza T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB

T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB image

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The Hispano-Suiza T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB 1912 is a remarkable machine that showcases stunning technical details that set it apart from most vehicles of its era. The car was named after King Alfonso XIII of Spain, who was a known admirer of Hispano-Suiza automobiles. This particular model was manufactured in 1912 and boasts of exceptional craftsmanship and design that is still significant almost a century later.

The T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB 1912 features a powerful engine with a 4.5-liter six-cylinder configuration that produces an astounding 50 horsepower. The engine block is made of cast iron and has an overhead camshaft design, a unique feature for cars of this era. The engine is mated to a four-speed manual transmission, which puts the car's much-vaunted driving dynamics at the disposal of the driver.

One can't help but notice the unique design of the chassis, which is made of pressed steel and features a ladder frame that provides excellent rigidity and stability. The front suspension is an independent suspension system that utilizes semi-elliptic leaf springs mounted on a transverse beam, which enhances the car's handling and ride comfort.

The T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB 1912 is built for speed, with a top speed of approximately 120 km/h, while the braking system features a double-band brake setup on the rear wheels and drum brakes on the front wheels. These features ensure that the car performs commendably at high speeds, maneuvering with ease through sharp curves and corners.

The car's exterior design is strikingly elegant, and the attention to detail is remarkable. The bodywork is made entirely of aluminum, making it one of the lightest automobiles of the era. The wheelbase of the SWB (short-wheelbase) is 2950 mm, and the overall length of the car is 4070 mm.

The T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB 1912 is as stylish and elegant on the inside as it is on the outside. The interior features leather seats, a wooden dashboard, and a comprehensive instrument panel that showcases various gauges and controls. The car also has an extensive luggage compartment that is spacious enough to accommodate substantial luggage or a full set of golf clubs.

In conclusion, the Hispano-Suiza T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB 1912 is a masterpiece of automotive engineering, whose technical prowess still delivers a driving experience that is unmatched by modern-day vehicles. Its fantastic design, elegant exterior, and comfortable interior distinguish it, even today, as one of the most remarkable cars ever made.

Milestones

- In 1912, Hispano-Suiza introduced the T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB as their first car model. - The T-15 was named after the King of Spain, Alfonso XIII, who was a personal friend and patron of the company's founders. - The T-15 was powered by a 4.7-liter, 4-cylinder, overhead-camshaft engine that produced 44 horsepower and could reach a top speed of 75 mph. - The car featured advanced engineering and technology for its time, including a 4-speed manual transmission, four-wheel brakes, and a fully-enclosed driveshaft. - The T-15 was also the first car to feature Hispano-Suiza's iconic "flying stork" hood ornament. - The T-15 was produced in limited numbers from 1912 to 1914, with only around 100 models built. - The car was highly regarded for its performance and luxury, and was popular among wealthy European aristocracy. - Today, the T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB is considered a rare and valuable collector's item, with some examples selling for millions of dollars at auction.


Technical

- Model: Hispano-Suiza T-15 Alfonso XIII SWB - Year: 1912 - Body style: Two-door roadster - Engine: 3.6 L inline-six - Horsepower: 30 - Transmission: Four-speed manual - Suspension: Front and rear semi-elliptic leaf springs - Brakes: Mechanical rear-wheel drum brakes - Wheelbase: 2,700 mm (106.3 in) - Length: 4,200 mm (165.4 in) - Width: 1,700 mm (66.9 in) - Height: 1,600 mm (63 in) - Weight: Approximately 1,200 kg (2,645 lb) - Top speed: Approximately 90 km/h (56 mph) - Production: Limited, fewer than 20 units