Flying Cloud Model 30

I know this is a Royale forum but swapping email with Steven Kelley about the REO Marksman he mentioned the following which was interesting to me:One other REO model that should have a section on the Forum is the REO Flying Cloud Model 30. It is part and parcel a Royale in chassis on 130" wheelbase, carries the Flying Cloud radiator shell and lesser trim levels for it's price class. From a REO history by Menno Duerksen in the Cars & Parts magazine, November 1974 pages, 104-105, it was introduced September 1930, remained in production until April 1931, then superseded by the Royale 8-31. As obscure as the Royales are to many, the Flying Cloud Model 30 is even more so. As predecessor to the 8-31, it deserves attention.So, this model had the 125hp engine in it and the Royale styled fenders?

Sep 17, 201424 views

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· Sep 17, 2014

John,

I'm asking if it has the 125hp engine. I did see some reference that it did in the description of the above car but I have no idea.

A.J.

· Sep 18, 2014

Hi

I'm Steve Kelley who suggested the Flying Cloud 8-30 be included. The engine is the same 358 c.i. straight eight as the Royale. A comparison of the chassis specifications will verify how identical and expose differences. The bodies were shared with the Royale, the fenders appear to have the roll only on the forward edge but may be shared with other Flying Clouds. Trim and fitting appropriate for their price range, lesser than the Royale but still very upscale. Their price range was ~$300-$500 less than the 8-35. The most direct competitors were the 1930 Studebaker President Series FH and 1931 Series 80. It appears as if the Royale 8-31 was evolved from this model. Whatever the case, it's a nearly extinct automobile.

Steve

· Sep 18, 2014

Interesting. I'll have to see if I can find my REO club owners list to see how many are registered. The Coupe is a neat car and sold a few years ago 2011 for 41k.

http://www.barrett-jackson.com/Events/Event/Details/1931-REO-FLYING-CLOUD-2-DOOR-COUPE-101997

· Sep 19, 2014

Welcome Steve from up here in Canada . I own a Royale Victoria 8 - 31 .

· Sep 19, 2014

According to what I think was the 2012 Club Registry (There is no date on it!) there are 2 8-30 cars registered.

· Sep 19, 2014

I'm not surprised there are only two registered, that could be half of all the survivors!

Might to worthwhile to inform the current 8-30 owners know this Forum exist and welcome their participation.

· Sep 21, 2014

Within this Curbside Classic feature of an 8-35 Victoria is a good photo of an 8-30 Flying Cloud sedan:

http://www.curbsideclassic.com/curbside-classics/curbside-full-classic-1931-reo-royale-victoria-eight-8-35/