Solved NIC#205 - 1908/09 Horsley

[nicanary]

What is this car, and when was it built?

[nicanary]

Experts?

[nicanary]

This one isn't easy, so it's up to the Pros.

[4popoid]

It is a good thing that you gave us a picture showing the unusual engine, otherwise I doubt that this one could be solved, as there was apparently only one car built and I can't locate any pictures of it with its hood in place.  The unusual engine is a Horsley, utilizing the patent issued to Thomas Horsley and Sons of York, UK.  The patent (see drawing below) is for an engine valving method utilizing a rotating disk, rather than the usual poppet valves or sleeves.  It is a simple idea, although I think it must have been very difficult to seal properly, and must have been subject significant wear issues.

From what I can find, there were perhaps four Horsley engines produced, including one in a complete car.  The car was produced in 1908/1909, and, according to some source, may still exist.   

[nicanary]

Wow! I expected it to take longer than that - as you say it's a VERY obscure car. You have all the relevant facts, and get a well-deserved point.

It was a 3.5-litre engine with 4 cylinders in separate casings rather than an inclusive block.