1909 Sears Model-K Runabout. Older Restoration. Serial No.( K3016)The Sears Motor Buggy offered here is the Model K version with fenders, lights and a top. Shown Hershey AACA Annual Fall Meet 1957, Glidden Tour 1957-1958. Sears, Roebuck and Co. offered buyers with a convenient way of purchasing a vehicle at the turn of the century - just by opening a catalog and placing an order. The Sears Motor Buggy was available for purchase by mail order and ranged in price from $325 to $475 depending on which model was selected. All of the models were powered by a mid-mounted engine that displaced 50 cubic-inches and offered around 10 horsepower. The drive was to the rear wheels via two chains and a variable speed friction-drive mechanism. Braking was by friction-pad brakes and there were four-wheel elliptic-spring suspension. Perhaps the most distinguishable feature about these motor buggys were the large 38-inch wheels that were fitted with hard rubber tires. This height offered excellent ground clearance over the muddy rural roads. The company's slogan for their vehicles were 'Lowest in Original Cost -Lowest in Upkeep Cost,' and 'so safe that a child could run it.' In the end Sears discovered that it cost more to produce their little car than it was selling for and it was discontinued in 1912. Sears was not done as they would also offer the All State car in 1952, but the Motor Buggy from Sears represents a time when simplicity ruled the road and life was much more modest.

For the discriminating collector of early cars, this Sears Model K Runabout is a charming reminder of how purchasing a new motorcar could be done from the pages of a catalog. The Sears Motor Buggy offered here is out of a prominent collection and has not been publicly offered in years. This Sears is the deluxe Model K version with fenders, lights and atop. Being first shown in 1957 this car is now considered an older restoration. Although still very presentable it does show signs of wear and paint loss as seen in the photos. The different show and tour plaques are mounted in the rear of the car dating from1957-1958. When this car was chosen to be restored you had the luxury of picking out a good solid unrestored vehicle complete with an original body, chassis, hardware and accessories. Although we have not started this vehicle yet we feel if will run with very little effort. We plan on starting the car in the near future so we can drive it and do a full evaluation. This is a great opportunity to obtain a proper, authentic and correctly restored Sears Auto buggy. This Sears is fully eligible for HCCA events and could be used on the 1 and 2 cylinder Tours. Please let us know if you need any additional information or if we can be of any other assistance.