330 cubic inch aluminum alloy-block Marmon V16, 200 horsepower
Transmission
Three-speed synchronized manual
This car is a recreation, paying tribute to a 1933 racer. In 1927, Earl Cooper began construction on a Harry Miller–style car destined for entry in the Indianapolis 500. However, poor performance prompted changes to the initial concept, including a complete engine overhaul. The final result was the 1933 Cooper Marmon with an alloy-block Marmon V16 passenger car engine sleeved down to 330 cubic inches. This speedster ran Indy in 1934 but failed to pass the fuel economy requirement and ended up in early retirement.
In 2008, John Hollansworth—a lifelong car enthusiast and racecar driver—decided to bring the car back to life. He had come across an incomplete V16 engine in Colorado and, after doing a little research, discovered its history was rooted in the 1933 Cooper Marmon Indy Car. He then commissioned Missouri-based Vintage Fabrications and Pete and Jake’s Hot Rod Parts to work on the body and chassis respectively. At the same time, Paul’s Rod and Bearing and Built Right Engines put the V16 back together.
Hollansworth drove the replica for the first time at the Vanderbilt Cup Centennials at the Millers at Milwaukee Meet in July 2012, boasting that it “drove like a champ.” Hagerty acquired the racer shortly after that.
