One of These Pristine Vintage American LaFrance Fire Trucks Could Be Yours
Car and Driver
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
RM Sotheby's is auctioning off an extraordinary collection of vintage fire trucks from the American LaFrance Corporate Collection in Miami. This rare opportunity includes 15 vehicles spanning nearly a century, offering a glimpse into the evolution of firefighting apparatuses. From hand-drawn wagons to powerful post-war models, the auction features iconic pieces like a 1911 American LaFrance Type 5 Double Tank Combination and a unique 1911 American LaFrance Type 8 Roadster, the only surviving passenger car built by the company.
The collection includes a wide range of vehicles with historical significance. The oldest piece is a hand-drawn pumping engine from 1858, featuring a domed brass "anti-pulsation chamber" and ornate woodwork. Estimated to sell for $100,000 to $150,000, it highlights the craftsmanship of early fire apparatuses. The auction also showcases the 1911 American LaFrance Type 5 Double Tank Combination, a groundbreaking vehicle powered by a massive 9.4-liter engine and adorned with gold leaf and an eagle hood ornament. This truck is expected to fetch between $100,000 and $200,000.
Among the more modern offerings is the 1956 American LaFrance 700 Series '775-PJO' Pumper, a cab-forward design that became an industry standard. This model includes a 35-foot extension ladder and a 500-gallon booster tank, reflecting its practical use in firefighting history. Estimated to sell for $15,000 to $25,000, it represents the shift toward larger, more powerful engines.
The auction also features the sole-surviving 1911 American LaFrance Type
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Originally published on Car and Driver on 2/23/2026