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 theOverland Scoutin 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.
