Vehicle Description
The Marion Automobile Company, founded in 1904 in Marion, Indiana,
holds a unique place in the early history of American motoring.
Known for crafting reliable, high-quality vehicles, the company was
driven by innovation, with none other than Harry C. Stutz, the
celebrated engineer and founder of the Stutz Motor Company, playing
a pivotal role in its early success. Stutz, who joined Marion in
1905, introduced innovative engineering concepts, shaping Marion's
reputation for performance-oriented, dependable vehicles. While at
Marion, Stutz developed an integrated transaxle (gearbox and
differential) placed at the rear of a front engine car, and he
patented it in 1909. He also developed four shoe rear drum brakes
and the monocle windshield, and he raced Marions for the
company.One of the company's most ambitious creations was the
Special Roadster, first teased in the Overland Scout in 1910. At
the time, Marion was affiliated with Willys-Overland, and the
newsletter announced the limited production of these
high-performance cars:"In addition to the Touring and Close-Coupled
Cars, and in view of the wonderful showing made by the Marion
whenever it has entered speed competitions against other cars of
equal power, we have decided to build a limited number of special
Roadsters. These fast cars represent the highest development of the
genuine stock racing car of medium power, and under favorable
circumstances may be relied upon for a speed as great as 65 to 75
miles an hour. The car itself is the same as the regular Model 10,
but ten inches shorter, and equipped with special two-passenger
racing body, having low seats and rear tanks. The design is
beautiful, and the whole will instantly appeal to anyone desiring
great speed, and a car of class and smart, thoroughbred appearance,
whose owner will be envied wherever it is seen."This early
description highlighted the Roadster's striking vermilion color,
its black fenders, and its promise of speed, performance, and
elegance. The model became one of the last overseen by Stutz before
his departure in 1911.Beyond its marketing appeal, the Special
Roadster lived up to its reputation. One of Marion's most
influential creations, it was a lightweight, sporty car that set
the stage for iconic brass-era sports cars like the Mercer
Raceabout and the Stutz Bearcat. Marion's racing success further
established its reputation as a serious player in the industry,
highlighted by Louis Disbrow's victory in a 10-mile heat at
Brighton Beach and a second-place finish in a one-hour race at 53
mph, both in a factory-prepared Marion Model 10. Independent racers
like Van Curtiss and E.G. Harris also excelled in local events,
with Marion cars proving dependable, as only one suffered a
mechanical failure between 1909 and 1912.This Special Roadster,
identified by motor no. 8518, stands as a rare testament to this
legacy. With a striking resemblance to the later Stutz Bearcat, it
is clear that Stutz's influence permeates its design. Though much
of its early history remains unknown, the car resurfaced in 1941
when famed collector Lindley Bothwell acquired it. Bothwell
retained the Marion until 1974 when it became part of Bill Harrah's
legendary collection, and is accompanied by certification and a
Harrah's plaque in the car's history file. In 1984 when Harrah's
collection was broken up, the car traded hands to Don May III.
After a meticulous 2400-hour restoration in the 1980s under the
ownership of May, this Marion won numerous awards, including top
finishes at five California concours events in 1988.Today, this
Marion is a magnificent Brass-era roadster, finished in its proper
Vermillion red with black fenders, beautiful brightwork and white
tires. The black tufted leather bucket seats offer both style and
comfort, while recent mechanical recommissioning has ensured the
vehicle runs exceptionally well. Powered by a 255 cubic inch,
L-head four-cylinder engine and backed by Harry Stutz's innovative
three speed transaxle, the Special Roadster delivers remarkable
torque and performance.Believed to be the only surviving example of
its kind, the 1910 Marion Special Roadster is not just a rare piece
of automotive history-it's a bridge to the era that paved the way
for America's greatest sports cars. With its connection to Harry
Stutz and its time in Bill Harrah's prestigious collection, this
Marion represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors
to own a foundational piece of American motoring heritage. Offers
welcome and trades considered. For additional details please view
this listing directly on our website
