FN Spider History
Catalog record
This is a brief catalog introduction with limited source documentation. A licensed, identity-checked lead photograph has not yet been added for this page. Detailed year, configuration and ownership coverage must be identified separately; this page is not a complete vehicle catalog.
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The first FN automobile prototype was completed in March 1899 at the company's Herstal factory, and series production of the so-called 'Spider' began in 1900. To modern eyes it more closely resembles a horseless carriage than a car: it was powered by a twin-cylinder front-mounted engine driving the rear wheels through a two-speed gearbox and a final-drive chain.
Approximately 100 units were built in the initial production run, establishing FN as a credible manufacturer in the nascent Belgian motor industry. The dog-cart body style remained in the FN catalogue until 1906, when it was superseded by more conventional shaft-drive touring car designs.
Body styles
- Voiturette
- Dog cart
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