Enger (United States)

Enger Motor Car Company was an American automobile manufacturer based in Cincinnati, Ohio, that operated from 1909 to 1917. Founded by Frank J. Enger, the company distinguished itself by rapidly expanding its engine offerings from two to twelve cylinders within a span of seven years, producing a range of four- and six-cylinder models along the way.

The company's first vehicle was a high-wheeler equipped with a 14-horsepower two-cylinder engine. However, Enger soon shifted focus to a more conventional 35/40-horsepower four-cylinder car, which featured overhead valves and was priced at $2,000 in 1910. By 1911, the model was rebranded as the 40-horsepower, with a slightly longer wheelbase and six available body styles. This model continued production with minimal changes until 1914, when it was succeeded by the 6-50, which was offered only as a tourer or roadster at a price of $1,495.

In 1916, Enger introduced its most notable model, the 55-horsepower Twin Six, recognized as one of the first V12 engines produced in America. This innovative vehicle could operate on six cylinders by using a lever to cut off fuel flow and close the valves of one bank of cylinders. The Twin Six was available as a tourer or roadster and was priced competitively at $1,095, significantly lower than its contemporaries, such as the Packard Twin Six.

The year 1916 marked the peak of Enger Motor Car Company's production, with 1,113 vehicles sold. However, the company faced a tragic turn when Frank Enger took his own life on January 4, 1917, after being diagnosed with cancer. Although he had instructed for the company to continue operations, his widow sought receivership, leading to a decline in production. Only 317 cars were manufactured in 1917, which included the Twin Six and a new, smaller four-cylinder model priced at $695.