1926 – Ford’s Tri-Motor Takes Flight
Ford expanded beyond the automobile on this day in 1926 when the Ford Trimotor completed its first flight. Often called the “Tin Goose,” the all-metal aircraft reflected Henry Ford’s belief that aviation could be mass-produced much like automobiles. The Tri-Motor went on to become one of the most important commercial aircraft of the late 1920s and early 1930s, helping establish passenger air travel in the United States and demonstrating Ford’s ambitions extended well beyond the highway.
1928 – The First Plymouth Rolls Off the Line
Chrysler officially entered the low-priced car market on this day in 1928 when the first Plymouth Model Q was built at the company’s Highland Park, Michigan, plant. Created to compete directly with Ford and Chevrolet, Plymouth offered features often unavailable in other budget cars, including hydraulic brakes. The brand quickly became a sales success and would remain a fixture of American roads for more than seven decades before disappearing after the 2001 model year. MORE: The short life of the Plymouth Superbird.
1964 – An AC Cobra Hits 185 MPH on a Public Motorway
In the early morning darkness of June 11, 1964, British racer Jack Sears pushed an AC Cobra Daytona Coupe to an astonishing 185 mph on Britain’s M1 motorway. The run took place around 4:30 a.m. as part of preparations for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, using the nearly empty highway as an unofficial high-speed test track. The feat demonstrated the incredible performance of Carroll Shelby’s aerodynamic Cobra Daytona Coupe, which would go on to challenge Ferrari for international GT racing supremacy.
1968 – Daimler Launches the DS420 Limousine
Royal families, diplomats, and heads of state gained a new transportation choice on this day in 1968 when Daimler DS420 was officially introduced. Built on Jaguar underpinnings but carrying the prestigious Daimler badge, the stately limousine became a favorite among governments and ceremonial fleets around the world. The DS420 remained in production for nearly a quarter century and continues to appear in royal and state functions today.
1986 – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Hits Theaters
One of cinema’s most famous automotive scenes debuted on this day in 1986 with the release of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. The movie featured what appeared to be a priceless 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder belonging to Cameron Frye’s father, culminating in the car’s unforgettable plunge through a garage window. In reality, the production used a combination of replicas and modified cars for filming, sparing genuine Ferrari collectors from heart attacks. The scene nevertheless introduced one of Ferrari’s most desirable models to millions of moviegoers and remains one of the most memorable automotive moments in film history.
