This 1924 Miller 122/183 Convertible Race Car speed record car was created for Tommy Milton and designed to have quick, interchangeable engines. It was driven at the Mojave Desert with a 3-liter 183 engine to a speed of 151.25 miles per hour. With the 2-liter 122 engine it traveled a speed of 141.17 miles per hour. It was just off the land speed record set by Milton in a dual engine Duesenberg that displaced 10-liters.
Design and Features
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Engine: The Miller 122/183 was equipped with a 1.5-liter (91 cubic inch) straight-eight engine. Known for its innovative design and advanced engineering, Miller engines were often supercharged and capable of producing impressive power outputs for their size.
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Chassis and Suspension: The chassis of the Miller 122/183 was lightweight and designed for optimal performance on the race track. Suspension systems varied depending on specific configurations and the intended purpose of each car, often featuring advanced setups for the time.
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Bodywork: The Miller race cars were typically built with lightweight materials and designed for aerodynamic efficiency. Convertible configurations allowed for flexibility in racing conditions, accommodating different track layouts and weather conditions.
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Interior: Race cars of this era typically had minimalistic interiors focused on the driver’s needs. They featured racing seats, essential instrumentation, and controls within easy reach. Safety considerations were basic compared to modern standards, reflecting the early days of motor racing.
Racing Success and Historical Significance
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Miller Racing Legacy: Harry Miller was renowned for his engineering prowess and innovative approach to race car design. His cars, including the Miller 122/183, achieved significant success in various racing competitions, such as the Indianapolis 500 and other prestigious events of the era.
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Innovative Engineering: The Miller 122/183 showcased advanced engineering techniques for its time, including lightweight construction, innovative engine design, and aerodynamic bodywork. These elements contributed to its competitiveness and success on the race track.
Collectibility
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Rarity: Original Miller race cars from the 1920s are extremely rare due to their limited production numbers and the demanding nature of competitive racing. Each car was often custom-built or modified extensively to suit different racing conditions.
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Historical Value: The Miller 122/183 holds significant historical value as a representation of American racing innovation and success during the early 20th century. Well-preserved examples with documented race histories are highly sought after by collectors and automotive historians.
Legacy
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Influence on Racing Technology: The Miller 122/183 and other Miller-designed race cars influenced the development of racing technology, particularly in the United States. Their innovative designs and engineering solutions set benchmarks for future generations of race cars.
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Cultural Impact: Miller race cars are celebrated for their contributions to American motorsport history. They continue to inspire racing enthusiasts and collectors, reflecting an era when innovation and craftsmanship defined competitive racing.
You may purchase a print of the 1924 Miller 122/183 Convertible Race Car in our dElegance 2013 online gallery.
