Description
The De Dion-Bouton Type AC was a notable model introduced in the early 1910s, during a period when the French manufacturer was transitioning from producing lightweight, single-cylinder runabouts to more substantial multi-cylinder automobiles aimed at a more mature and demanding market. As motoring evolved from a novelty into a daily necessity for many upper- and middle-class families, the Type AC represented De Dion-Bouton’s response to the increasing demand for refined touring cars with greater power, comfort, and reliability.
The Type AC was equipped with a four-cylinder petrol engine, marking a departure from the single- and twin-cylinder engines that had defined De Dion-Bouton’s earlier reputation. This engine produced approximately 12 to 14 horsepower and was water-cooled, with mechanically actuated valves and magneto ignition. It was front-mounted and paired with a four-speed gearbox, offering improved flexibility and control for long-distance touring. The power was transmitted to the rear wheels via a shaft drive, a more modern and enclosed system compared to the chain drives used in earlier models.
The chassis of the Type AC was robust and well-engineered, with a ladder frame made of pressed steel. It supported a full-length body with options for various touring and town car configurations, including open tonneau and enclosed limousine styles. Suspension was provided by semi-elliptic leaf springs on both axles, delivering a relatively smooth ride for the era. The braking system included a transmission brake as well as mechanical drum brakes on the rear wheels, adequate for the speeds and driving conditions of the time.
One of the distinguishing features of the Type AC was its attention to refinement and comfort. The interior was typically upholstered in high-quality leather, with polished wood trim and brass fittings contributing to a luxurious ambiance. The driving controls were thoughtfully arranged, and the car featured advancements such as an electric lighting system, which was becoming more common in premium vehicles during this period.
The De Dion-Bouton Type AC was positioned as a solid mid-range touring car, capable of comfortably transporting four to five passengers over long distances. It was well-suited to the growing network of improved roads across France and beyond, and it appealed to buyers looking for a reliable, well-built automobile with the prestige of one of the oldest and most respected names in the industry.
Today, the Type AC is appreciated by veteran car collectors for its blend of Edwardian engineering and emerging 20th-century automotive sophistication. It represents a transitional phase in De Dion-Bouton’s history, as the company moved away from its origins in light cars and motorcycles toward more conventional automobiles designed for an increasingly mobile society.