1912 National Speed Car built in Indianapolis, Indiana and was raced in the 1913 Indy 500 for the National Race Team.  After a crash in the Inaugural race it then spent the next decade racing in California.

It  is a significant vehicle in the history of early American motorsport, particularly known for its participation in the Indianapolis 500. National Motor Vehicle Company, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, was an early automobile manufacturer that built both passenger cars and competitive racing cars.

• Design and Styling:

  • The 1912 National Speed Car was designed with a focus on speed and endurance, reflecting the racing technologies and aesthetics of the early 20th century.
  • It had a minimalist, utilitarian design typical of racing cars from that era, with a lightweight and aerodynamic body to reduce wind resistance and maximize speed.

• Engine and Performance:

  • The car was powered by a large, powerful engine designed for high performance. While exact specifications can vary, it typically featured a four-cylinder engine with substantial displacement to produce competitive horsepower.
  • This engine allowed the National Speed Car to achieve impressive speeds for the time, making it a formidable competitor in races.

• Chassis and Suspension:

  • The National Speed Car used a robust yet lightweight chassis to ensure durability and agility on the race track.
  • It featured a solid axle suspension system, which was standard for the era, providing the necessary stability and control during high-speed racing.

• Transmission and Drivetrain:

  • The car was equipped with a multi-speed manual transmission, which allowed the driver to optimize performance across different track conditions.
  • Rear-wheel drive was the standard drivetrain layout, contributing to the car's balanced handling and performance characteristics.

• Racing History and Achievements:

  • The 1912 National Speed Car gained fame through its participation in the second Indianapolis 500, held in 1912. This prestigious race was part of the early years of what would become a cornerstone event in American motorsport.
  • National Motor Vehicle Company had a strong showing in the race, with one of their cars finishing in third place, driven by Joe Dawson. This performance helped to establish the brand's reputation in competitive racing.

• Technological Innovations:

  • The National Speed Car incorporated several technological advancements for its time, such as advanced engine tuning, lightweight materials, and aerodynamic design principles.
  • These innovations contributed to its competitive edge in early motorsport events.

• Legacy and Collectibility:

  • The 1912 National Speed Car is an important piece of automotive history, representing the pioneering spirit of early American racing.
  • Surviving examples of this car are extremely rare and highly prized by collectors and historians for their historical significance and connection to the early days of the Indianapolis 500.
  • Restored models or well-documented replicas can occasionally be seen at vintage car shows and racing events, where they serve as a testament to the engineering and competitive achievements of their era.

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1912 National Speed Car in our dElegance 2016 online gallery.

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