Rolls-Royce reputedly had a sign at the factory grounds warning pedestrians to beware of silent motorcars.1927 Rolls-Royce Phantom. Was in a parade in my hometown (Moultrie GA) and they gave rides in the car after the parade.
My biggest memory of it, was how ABSOLUTELY SILENT it was. The owner started the engine (basically pushed a button), and there was a faint "click", and then a small puff of exhaust from the tailpipe. No audible starter or engine sound whatsoever. I would have had no way to know it was running, if I couldn't have seen the exhaust puffs...
Regards,
Gordon.
Back in the early 70's there was a Tri Motor flying from a island in lake Erie to Ohio for tourist. My dad had Piper Tri-Pacer and we took off before the Tri-Motor and took pictures of it in the air. It looked so cool.Oldest plane for me was a Ford TriMotor, like flying in a Model A.
Almost all other contemporary straight 8 were sidevalve, Buick was OHV.The oldest car I recall riding in was a 1938 Buick my dad bought for $25. (back around 1960-1961). Car was in great shape, comfortable, and had the most unique sounding engine.... a straight 8 cylinder.
It's --possible-- that I rode in something older, but if I did I have no recollection of it.