What you see here is a four-ton workhorse. Six meters long. Powered by a 14.5-liter inline-six engine. This is something truly special.

This American LaFrance Type 75 was delivered new in 1919 as a fire engine to the Huron Fire Department in Ohio. And here is what makes it truly extraordinary: it survives in an almost untouched, highly original condition. Even the paintwork remains largely original and presents beautifully, showing a rich, honest patina. Under the right light, you can still just make out the “Huron No.1” lettering on the hood.

What makes this example so special is not only its condition, but also how it has been used. The previous owner, a gentleman with a passion for heavy, mechanical machinery, drove this very American LaFrance in the 2016 London to Brighton Run. Simply start it, drive it, and enjoy it. How often can that be said? We can already tell you this much: the sound alone draws a crowd. When this machine approaches, people know something remarkable is coming.

Under the hood lies an engine of truly monumental proportions: 885 cubic inches. An engine that feels closer to an industrial power plant than anything typically found in a vehicle. And yet, this American LaFrance runs and drives.

Aside from a few discreet modifications made for safety—such as the rear lighting—this vehicle remains largely original. The wooden spoke wheels are in very good condition, and the interior retains an exceptional amount of original detail. The leather backrest is original, and everything about the vehicle feels robust, honest, and dependable.

Accompanying the car is a comprehensive history file, including period documents, technical drawings, and original manuals—dating from a time when a “manual” truly meant that the owner was expected to do the work themselves.

As we said before: this is not a casual addition to a collection. This is a rolling monument. History is visible from every angle, and it is a machine that is not afraid of being driven—whether to the local village or all the way to the legendary London to Brighton Run. The next owner can look forward to an experience unlike any other classic vehicle. Because, quite honestly, when was the last time you saw a fire engine of this caliber, in such original condition, that also runs and drives?

Interested? Contact Gallery Aaldering today. Active since 1975, with decades of experience in exporting exceptional vehicles worldwide. Please inquire about the possibilities.