1911 Metz Plan Runabout

Engine: Horizontally-opposed, two-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement: 4.2 L (254 ci)
Bore and Stroke: 88.9 x 83.82 mm (3.5 x 3.3 in)
Power: 8.9 kW (12 hp)
Transmission: Friction drive
Weight: 284 kg (626.1 lb)
Capacity: 2 passengers
Original Cost: C $602 (estimate)

In the summer of 1908, Charles H. Metz bought Waltham Manufacturing, who were in debt with a large inventory of automobile parts. To liquidate this surplus of parts, the Metz Plan was introduced. Parts were offered in US $25 packages and 14 packages made one car, for a total of US $350. This provided graduated payment for time of assembly and financial outlay. It was an immediate hit and by the end of 1909 all of Waltham’s debts were paid. Metz cars were built with chain final drive and friction transmissions. By 1911, all Metz cars were factory assembled. Production of Metz Cars stopped in 1918 due to the First World War and the company was not able to recover and was bankrupt by 1922.

This car was used in the Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada area.

Chronology:
1893 - Charles H. (C.H.) Metz started Waltham Manufacturing to produce Orient bicycles.
1898 - Metz left Waltham to become the editor of the Automobile Trade Journal.
1908 - Metz bought back Waltham Manufacturing who were in debt and had a huge surplus of parts. To liquidate parts, he came up with the Metz Plan. Parts came in US $25 packages and 14 packages would make up one complete car, for a total price of US $350. This idea was very popular with consumers.
1909 - By the end of 1909, Metz had paid off all Waltham debts and reorganized as the Metz Company.
1910 - Metz package price was raised to US $27 per package  and a factory assembled car was also an option.
1911 - All Metz cars were factory assembled.
1915 - Matz had their best year and sold 7200 cars.
1918 - Production at Metz stopped due to the First World War and never recovered.
1921-1922 Metz was renamed waltham but by 1922 they were bankrupt.
1977 - Stan Reynolds acquires this Metz from a collection in Detroit, Michigan, USA.
1984 - Stan Reynolds donated the car to the Reynolds-Alberta Museum.