The little engine that could . . . turn heads

Size isn’t everything. Owen Bennett’s replica traction engine has more than cuteness going for it.

The one-third scale replica won’t be anything like the most imposing machine at the Edendale Crank Up vintage machinery show this weekend, but it’s in no danger of being overlooked by the crowds.

Imported in kitset form from England, the little engine is more than cute; it’s accurate to the last nut and bolt.

‘‘Photograph it with the right background and it would be hard to pick from the original,’’ he said. ‘‘Everything works.’’

Then there’s small matter of convenience, and not only for storage.

Bennett has long been deeply involved with heritage engine restoration and his full-sized original Aveling and Porter engine with its giant yellow wheels and full-length roof has long been a stellar feature of southern parades and events.

Transporting it, however, was always a bit of an issue.

Google Maps suggests a motorist could make the trip from Greenhills to Edendale in 42 minutes.

The full-scale model isn’t that zippy. ‘‘It takes two days to get there and two to get home.’’

Loading his wee replica on to a trailer makes for a less leisurely journey.

The combination of design accuracy and convenience had made the replicas increasingly popular, Bennett said.

‘‘At rallies in England the small replicas outnumber the bigger engines.’’

Edendale’s Crank Up show has become one of the country’s largest annual vintage machinery events, and this year marks its 35th year.