Bour-Davis

The Bour-Davis was an American automobile manufactured from 1916 until 1922. The car took its name from two of the founders of the company; Robert C Davis and Charles J Bour.[1] Production of the car was started in Detroit, before moving to Frankfort, Indiana, in 1918.[1] A distinctive feature of the Model 17 and Model 18B cars built in Detroit and Frankfort was the slightly slanted and pointed radiator.[2] Prices ranged from $1250 to $1500 in 1916, rising to $1650 in 1919.[1]

In 1918 the company was taken over by the Shadbourne Brothers of Chicago, who reorganised the company, with production now located in Shreveport, Louisiana, from 1919 onwards.[2] Company advertising placed heavy emphasis on the Bour-Davis's new home, with the car being referred to as the "Pride of Shreveport".[1] A contest was held amongst readers of the "Shreveport Times" for a new name for the car. Although the name "Louisianne" was chosen, this name was never adopted.[3] Features of the Bour-Davis included a radiator placed slightly ahead of the front axle, and the continuation of the leather front seat over the seat's top and down to the rear floor.[2] The Model 21 and Model 21S were powered by a Continental Straight-6 engine, with prices ranging from $1700 for a 1920 Model 20 tourer, up to $2300 for a 1922 Model 21S tourer.[1]

In 1923 the company was taken over by JM Ponder and the Ponder Motor Manufacturing Company, but lack of finance lead to production never occurring.[2] Total production of the Bour-Davis between 1916 and 1922 was approximately 1500 cars.[1]

See also
Bour-Davis 1921 Model 21S Touring Car

References
  1. Kimes, Beverly Rae (1996). The Standard Catalog of American Cars: 1805-1942. Iola, IA: Krause Publications. p. 1612. ISBN 0873414284.
  2. Georgano, Nick (2000). The Beaulieu Encyclopedia of the Automobile. London: Stationery Office. p. 1792. ISBN 0117023191.
  3. Brown, Schelley. "Bour-Davis Model "21-S" Not Just One Man's Dream". On The Road With Schelley Brown. Retrieved 11 December 2012.


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