For Sale: 1910 Marion Raceabout in Saint Louis, Missouri

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.