The 1911 Marmon Wasp Recreation celebrates the legendary first Indianapolis 500 winner. Over 19,000 hours of craftsmanship brought this tribute to life, capturing the spirit of the original Wasp. From Hershey, Pennsylvania, it offers enthusiasts a rare glimpse into early American racing history.
Iconic Indy 500 Inspiration
More than 80,000 spectators witnessed the inaugural Indy 500 in 1911. Ray Harroun piloted the original Marmon Wasp, finishing the 500 miles in over seven hours at an average speed of 74.6 mph. Its bright yellow taper-tailed body and unique “sting” remain iconic in motorsport lore.
Meticulous Craftsmanship and Detail
Jerry Vincentini spearheaded this recreation, beginning in the 1980s. He measured the original Marmon Wasp with precision and, alongside a machinist, fabricated over 1,500 custom parts. Every curve and dimension faithfully honors the 1911 design.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the 1911 Marmon Wasp Recreation features a 1929 Nash “Advanced Six” engine. Twin plugs, dual ignition, and twin fuel pumps combine with a 1929 Nash three-speed manual transmission. The car rests on a 1917 Nash frame and axles and reaches speeds up to 80 mph, offering remarkable performance for a vintage-style recreation.
Street-Legal and Practical Features
Remarkably, the recreation is street-legal. Equipped with lights, turn signals, a speedometer, and a rearview mirror, it blends authenticity with usability. The inclusion of four-wheel brakes, including an emergency brake, ensures safe handling for public roads.
Award-Winning Recognition
This Marmon Wasp Recreation has won numerous accolades, including the Augie Duesenberg Award. Its craftsmanship and historical accuracy have impressed judges and enthusiasts alike at multiple concours events.
Timeless Design and Aerodynamics
The recreation mirrors the original’s streamlined silhouette, from its tapering tail to the flowing bodywork. Its attention to aerodynamics captures the spirit of innovation that made the Marmon Wasp a pioneer in American racing.
Driving Experience
Driving the Marmon Wasp Recreation combines history and excitement. The twin-plug engine provides lively response, while the carefully engineered chassis ensures stability. It’s a rare chance to experience early racing thrills with modern reliability.
Unique Opportunity
While the original Marmon Wasp resides in the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, this recreation is the only one available. It offers collectors and enthusiasts a tangible connection to the roots of Indy 500 history.
Summary
The 1911 Marmon Wasp Recreation delivers unparalleled craftsmanship, historical significance, and street-legal performance. It’s a tribute to a legendary racecar and a unique collector’s gem.
Disclaimer: Specifications and performance are based on recreation estimates and should be verified before driving.
Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
