The Howard car represents a distinctive era of American automotive craftsmanship, blending hand-built attention with period-correct components. Enthusiasts value the model for its classic lines, approachable mechanics, and the depth of aftermarket support available.
This article explores the model’s performance, ownership considerations, and real-world usability. Readers gain a clear picture of what to expect when buying, maintaining, or restoring a Howard car in today’s market.
| Specification | Howard 85 Roadster | Howard 92 Touring | Howard Sport Sedan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Inline-4 | 2.3L Inline-4 | 2.6L Inline-6 |
| Horsepower | 48 hp | 52 hp | 68 hp |
| Drivetrain | Three-speed manual | Three-speed manual | Three-speed manual with optional overdrive |
| Weight | 2,200 lb | 2,400 lb | 2,750 lb |
| Top Speed | 70 mph | 75 mph | 86 mph |
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Engine and Power Delivery
The Howard car’s powertrain options emphasize reliability and smooth mid-range torque rather than raw horsepower. The inline-four engines pair well with the three-speed manual, making city traffic and highway passing predictable and stress-free.
Suspension and Handling
Leaf-spring rear suspension and semi-elliptic front springs give the Howard car a compliant ride over broken pavement while maintaining decent cornering grip. Steering is slow and weighted, which suits relaxed cruising but may feel vague during spirited maneuvers.
Ownership and Maintenance
Parts Availability and Restore Support
Because Howard vehicles were produced in limited numbers, many original components are either scarce or have changed hands among collectors. Aftermarket reproductions and donor-car parts from related marques help fill these gaps, keeping restoration costs moderate compared to ultra-rare classics.
Daily Usability
Owners who use a Howard car as a weekend runabout appreciate its simple systems, predictable behavior, and ease of basic repairs. Those relying on it as a primary commuter vehicle may find the lack of modern safety gear, modest trunk space, and cabin noise limiting for everyday practicality.
Market Trends and Pricing
Values and Collector Interest
Market data for the Howard car shows stability with modest upside, driven by restored concours examples and documented history. Prices vary by body style, originality, and completeness of documentation, with premium demand for survivor-condition Touring models.
| Body Style | Typical Condition | Price Range | Collector Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roadster | Project car | $12,000–$18,000 | Medium |
| Roadster | Restored | $35,000–$50,000 | High |
| Touring | Project car | $14,000–$22,000 | Medium-High |
| Touring | Fully restored | $55,000–$80,000 | Very High |
| Sedan | Project car | $10,000–$15,000 | Low-Medium |
| Sedan | Restored | $30,000–$45,000 | Medium |
Driving Experience and Real-World Use
Everyday Commuting
Most owners report that the Howard car feels engaging rather than isolating, with adequate visibility and controls that remain familiar to drivers of vintage vehicles. Noise, limited padding, and basic weather sealing mean short trips are pleasant, while cross-country journeys may require more frequent stops for comfort.
Weekend and Show Use
Concours participants highlight the Howard car’s harmonious proportions and period-correct details, which photograph well and attract knowledgeable judges. Road rallies and vintage speed runs suit the chassis, provided drivers respect its braking performance and tire grip limitations.
Key Takeaways for Howard Car Owners
- Verify originality and documentation before purchase to protect long-term value.
- Budget for suspension bushings, brake service, and periodic electrical system refreshes.
- Prioritize a running gear inspection with a specialist familiar with Howard engines.
- Join the marque club network for access to pattern parts, technical notes, and swap meets.
- Plan storage and maintenance routines around seasonal use to preserve finishes and rubber components.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is the Howard car suitable as a first classic project?
Yes, its straightforward mechanical layout, understandable blueprints, and active owner community make it a solid introductory project for enthusiasts willing to learn basic metalwork and electrical work.
How reliable are the original engines in daily use?
Engines in good condition can handle regular short trips when fluids and ignition components are kept current, though prolonged high-load use may expose weak points in the cooling system and generator.
What are the most expensive components to replace?
Body panels for closed models, the complete rear axle assembly, and period-correct wire wheels are often the costliest repairs, especially when sourced as NOS (new old stock) items.
Do insurance companies classify it as a classic or specialty vehicle?
Most insurers treat the Howard car as a classic or hobby vehicle when the owner agrees to limited annual mileage and garage storage, which typically lowers premiums compared to standard usage policies.