Life, 1914-03-05 · page 39 of 60
Life — March 5, 1914 — page 39: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is **not a cartoon or satire**—it's a straightforward automobile advertisement from *Life* magazine (page 415). The Oakland Motor Car Company advertises two 1914 car models: the Model 36 Four-Cylinder ($1,200) and the Light Six ($1,785). The ad emphasizes the brand's engineering sophistication and design leadership, claiming Oakland vehicles represent "cosmopolitan good taste" and mechanical innovation. The phrase "car with a conscience" (the headline) appears to be marketing language suggesting Oakland builds ethically and thoughtfully—a quality-focused manufacturer rather than a cut-rate producer. The accompanying illustrations show both vehicles and include a silhouette scene of people enjoying an Oakland automobile, emphasizing lifestyle appeal. The ad highlights period-specific features: Delco starting/lighting systems, left-side drive, V-shaped radiator—all genuine innovations that would have impressed contemporary buyers. The company was based in Pontiac, Michigan. This represents early 20th-century automotive advertising before mass-market standardization.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
uo WITH A CONSCIENCE The Modern Oakland is the mature issue of a healthy growth. It is powerful—beautiful—complete —a concrete reflection of cosmopolitan good taste. In a word—it is the mechanical expression of men who know not only what constitutes the efficient motor-car of Today, but who see the trend of things so clearly that they are able to consider in retro- spect what other makers regard as prospective. This explains Oakland leadership. Consider the two carsshown here. Both compel you to alter your standards of price value. The Four sells for $1200, the Light Six for $1785—both pacemakers for 1914. Look at the artistic care with which the lines of the Model 36-—Four-Cvlinder—Five Passengers— | Pure stream-line body have been fashioned, with $1200.00 what pleasing curves the harsh corners have been displaced. The strong, powerful motors, the big friction- eliminating bearings, the left-side drive, center con- trol, the famous Delco starting lighting and ignition system, German Silver V-shaped radiator, extra deep upholstery, side doors, concealed hinges, large lug- gage compartments, extra pockets; all these refine- ments and important features indicate the complete, up-to-date character of the Oakland product. Oakland Book “A” explains in detail. Ask copy and the name of the nearest dealer. range of designs and horsepower ratings ¢ and Fours. Price $1150 to $2600, f. 0. b. factory. All cars fully equipped. Oakland Motor Car Company Of Michigan Pontiac, Michigan