Walt, thanks for that...
And yes, the old technology, John. In 1927, I think it was, Studebaker offered an option that was a simple one-action start. Turn the key on, the engine started itself!
Then there were the British systems that kept the engine warm for you... the engine would start up once it dropped to a predetermined temp and switch off again when warm.
Found another Repco Holden engine pic...
But still nobody talks about tiny six-cylinder screamers. That's what I want to know about!