Legendary 1907 Thomas Flyer: New York to Paris Race Winner
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In this episode of Jay Leno's Garage, we delve into the legendary 1907 Thomas Flyer, the very car that clinched victory in the grueling New York to Paris race. This iconic vehicle, meticulously preserved by Bill Harrah, stands as a testament to automotive history. Phil McDougall, the president of the National Automobile Museum in Reno, takes us through the remarkable journey of this beastly machine. With its massive 571 cubic inch engine and chain drive system, the Thomas Flyer was a true pioneer of its time, pushing the boundaries of speed and endurance.
As we uncover the details of the race around the world that the Thomas Flyer undertook, we witness the sheer grit and determination of the drivers facing treacherous terrains and even bandit threats. The car's original features, from acetylene lights to wooden fenders, played a crucial role in its success. Sporting a four-speed transmission and pneumatic tires, the Thomas Flyer was a marvel of engineering in an era where speed limits were unheard of. The journey's challenges, including penalties for shortcuts and intense rivalries, add a thrilling layer to the car's historic victory.
From the frozen landscapes of Siberia to the bustling streets of New York, the Thomas Flyer's epic adventure captures the essence of early 20th-century automotive innovation. The race's 170-day duration tested not only the vehicle's capabilities but also the resilience of its drivers. Despite facing numerous obstacles, the Thomas Flyer emerged triumphant, solidifying its place in the annals of motoring history. Jay Leno's Garage provides a captivating glimpse into a bygone era where cars were not just machines but symbols of human ingenuity and courage.
Image copyright Youtube
Image copyright Youtube
Image copyright Youtube
Image copyright Youtube
Watch The Car That Raced Around the World?! Jay Drives the 1907 Thomas Flyer | Jay Leno’s Garage on Youtube
Viewer Reactions for The Car That Raced Around the World?! Jay Drives the 1907 Thomas Flyer | Jay Leno’s Garage
Viewers are impressed by the historical significance of the 1908 Thomas Flyer, comparing it to iconic vehicles like the Wright Flyer and Apollo 11.
There is appreciation for Jay Leno's role in preserving and showcasing automotive history through his show.
Comments express excitement at seeing such an old car still in operation and praise the restoration efforts.
Some users share personal connections to the car or its history, such as family memories or past encounters with the vehicle.
Mention of other notable vehicles in the museum, like the Phantom Corsair and DeLorean, sparks interest in visiting the location.
A user shares a unique detail about the car's fenders being replaced with canvas due to theft by Chinese deck hands.
The episode is described as the best ever, with viewers praising Jay Leno for highlighting historical automotive gems.
Some users recall reading books about the race the Thomas Flyer participated in, adding to the fascination with the car's history.
There are suggestions for a movie adaptation of the Thomas Flyer story, with mentions of potential directors like Martin Scorsese or Wes Anderson.
A comment humorously mentions the high price of a watch featured in the video.
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Legendary 1907 Thomas Flyer: New York to Paris Race Winner
Explore the iconic 1907 Thomas Flyer, winner of the New York to Paris race, in this Jay Leno's Garage episode. Learn about its history, features, and the thrilling around-the-world journey it undertook, showcasing the pioneering spirit of early automotive engineering.