The Baltimore-based Eshelman Motor Company produced a splendid collection of itty-bitty cars for children throughout the 1950s. A bright yellow 1956 Eshelman Child’s Sports Car recently offered on eBay is a prime example.
The kids’ two-seater rolled out of the factory with a rope-start Briggs & Stratton engine that produced a heart-pounding 2.25 horsepower. The top speed was about 15 miles per hour. It was primitive, although very sporty from a kid’s perspective.
The restored 1950s kids car has period-correct headlights.
The 1956 Eshelman kids’ car on eBay could be described as a restomod. The Briggs & Stratton powerplant was replaced with a modern 6.5-horsepower Tecumseh engine - opens in new window or tab.. Tecumseh primarily supplies engines for lawnmowers and snow blowers.
The restoration process also added an electric starter, battery, and generator. The seller stated that it “runs and drives well” and is “great for parades.”
The interior features fresh upholstery and door panels finished in red and white. The spare tire cover matches the interior. The headlights and taillights are functional, with “period correct lighting.”
Eshelman Cars Were Not Just for Kids
Eshelman sold just two models initially—one for kids and one for adults. The product line expanded to include a version for adults that could hit 30 miles per hour. The grown-up variant grew to about five feet in length and was offered with useful options, such as lawn sweeper and hauling cart. A community of Eshelman car fans keep the legacy alive via Facebook - opens in new window or tab..
By 1959, Eshelman started making slightly upsized coupes, pickups, and delivery vehicles. It also re-trimmed and re-badged Chevrolet Corvairs. Later on, founder Cheston Eshelman tried to market an energy-absorbing front bumper made from a vehicle’s spare tire.
The Eshelman Car vs. Other Tiny Vehicles
Eshelman’s creations are more than go-carts or clown cars. They are attention-getting machines. Moreover, the Eshelman car is less common than other better-known tiny cars.
- The BMW Isetta - opens in new window or tab. is arguably the best known classic microcar. The car’s name is diminutive for the Italian firm, Iso. BMW acquired the license to use the design.
- The Nash Metropolitan - opens in new window or tab. was sold in the United States and Canada from 1954 to 1962—an era known for boat-like sedans. It’s no speed demon. A 42-horsepower engine delivers zero-to-60 mph performance in around 30 seconds.
- Time magazine put the King Midget - opens in new window or tab. micro-car on its list of the 50 Worst Cars of All Time. The King Midget Motor Company of Athens, Ohio, was once the sixth largest automobile manufacturer in America.
- The Peel P50 - opens in new window or tab. is 54 inches long and 39 wide—making it the tiniest car ever made. The top speed is about 37 miles per hour.
How Much Does an Eshelman Car Cost?
This Eshelman Sports Car was offered on eBay with a Buy-It-Now price of $10,600. Of course, it has value as a collector’s item. Back in 1956, it sold for the princely sum of $295.
Way ahead for its time, Eshelman’s kids’ sports car was often shipped to its buyer in a crate.
Restoring an Eshelman Car
eBay has seen more than one Eshelman recently. Anyone yearning to build their own souped-up, classic 1950s kid’s car could have brought home this rusty 1955 Eshelman small car.
A 1955 Eshelman car for kids is ready to be restored.
The original Briggs & Stratton engine and belt drive looked to be intact. The frame appeared to be solid. All the bones were there, but trim pieces were missing, and there was no windshield. Alas, the front grille, headlamps, rear panel, and bumpers were also gone.
But take heart. Parts for Eshelman microcars - opens in new window or tab. also turn up on eBay. For example, there was an entire Eshelman front assembly available.
Front assembly of an Eshelman car
Can you imagine the delight of putting a grade-schooler behind the wheel of a fully restored mid-century kid’s two-seater sports car? The scale is perfect for the knee-high, aspiring car builder in your life.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.