Comet (Canada) - AllCarIndex

Comet Motor Company was a Canadian automobile manufacturer based in Montreal, Quebec, that operated briefly from 1907 to 1908. The company was backed by wealthy and influential investors, which provided a strong foundation for its operations. Comet vehicles were noted for their engineering quality, utilizing high-quality imported components.

The flagship model featured a 24-horsepower four-cylinder engine sourced from the French manufacturer Clement-Bayard, which was also known to supply engines to the Diatto company. The vehicles incorporated an English-built Hele-Shaw clutch, while the lamps and radiator were American-made. The bodies of the cars, including the tourer and landaulette variants, were constructed locally in Canada. Despite the high-quality materials and engineering, the Comet was priced at CDN$5,000, which limited its market appeal.

In 1908, Comet announced plans to introduce larger engines, including a 40-horsepower four-cylinder and a six-cylinder variant, although the latter was soon abandoned. The 24-horsepower model continued to be offered at a reduced price of CDN$4,000 for the 1909 season, but it is unlikely that any units were produced that year. Estimates of total production for the Comet range from 50 to 200 vehicles. After ceasing automobile production, the company continued to operate by selling high-quality American cars, eventually standardizing on the Packard brand. Notably, a Comet vehicle gained some recognition when it was used to transport the Prince of Wales, who later became King George V, during a visit to Montreal.