Buffum (United States) - AllCarIndex

The H.H. Buffum Company, based in Abington, Massachusetts, operated from 1901 to 1907 as a manufacturer of both automobiles and motor boats. The company initially produced touring cars equipped with 20-horsepower horizontal four-cylinder engines and chain-and-gear transmissions. In 1903, Buffum planned to increase production to 50 cars, but by 1904, they shifted to a more conventional design featuring a 28-horsepower vertical four-cylinder engine, sliding gear transmission, and double-chain final drive.

In 1904, Buffum also developed a notable racing car known as the Buffum Greyhound. This vehicle was distinguished by its innovative design, which included two horizontal four-cylinder engines coupled to create a flat eight configuration, along with coil springs on all four wheels. The Buffum Greyhound was recognized as the first eight-cylinder car offered for sale in the United States, although it is unclear how many units were sold, with reports suggesting that possibly only one was produced. In 1906, the company introduced another eight-cylinder model, this time a V8, which shared cylinder dimensions with the HEWITT engine, indicating a possible connection to the French-designed Antoinette engine.