Stanley (Stanley Steamer) Model 740 History

The Model 740 was the final Stanley line, built from 1922 to 1924 in touring, roadster, sedan, and brougham forms. By this point Stanley had adopted a condenser (from 1915) to extend range and cut water stops, and the cars were powered by a 20-horsepower steam engine — refined, smooth, and quiet, but expensive: a 740D sedan listed at $3,950 in 1924.

By 1922 Stanley was the last steam-car maker still in volume production, building over 450 cars that year, but the gasoline car had won the market on price, speed, and the convenience of quick starting. The company slid into receivership by 1923; its assets were sold and the factory closed permanently in 1924, ending the Model 740 and the marque with it.