The National Motor Vehicle Company of Indianapolis played a pivotal role in shaping the early American automotive landscape. Their transition from electric cars to gas-powered vehicles in 1906 demonstrated their adaptability and foresight in responding to changing market demands. By prioritizing performance and innovation, Nationals earned a reputation for excellence, garnering attention both on and off the racetrack.
Their commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail ensured that each National vehicle was not only a mode of transportation but also a symbol of prestige and quality. This dedication to excellence helped solidify National’s position as a respected and influential player in the burgeoning automotive industry of the early 20th century.
In 1909, Nationals demonstrated their racing prowess by competing and placing well on the dirt tracks of the newly established Indianapolis Motor Speedway. However, it was in 1911 that Nationals truly made their mark on the racing world, fielding three cars in the inaugural 500-mile race at the famed brick-paved Indy track. Although only one car finished seventh, it laid the foundation for future success.
The pinnacle of National’s racing achievements came in 1912 when driver Joe Dawson piloted a National to victory in the second annual Indy 500, averaging an impressive 78.2 miles per hour. This historic win solidified National’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the racetrack and propelled the company to new heights of success.
National’s racing cars were advertised as identical to models available for everyday consumers, emphasizing the company’s dedication to quality and reliability. This marketing strategy aimed to showcase National’s commitment to producing high-performance vehicles suitable for both the racetrack and everyday driving.
Among National’s offerings were the Speedway Roadster and the Semi-Racing Speedster, both of which showcased the company’s engineering prowess and sporting pedigree. The 1913 Semi-Racing Roadster, equipped with a powerful 450 cubic-inch T-Head inline 4-cylinder engine, exemplified National’s commitment to performance and innovation. Priced at $2,750, it offered enthusiasts an exhilarating driving experience at a competitive price point.
The discovery of this 1913 National Semi-Racing Roadster in the Blue Mountains was a momentous occasion, as it was believed to be one of only a few remaining examples from National’s five-year-long production run. Remarkably, the roadster remains 100 percent original, with 22,000 miles on the odometer when it was purchased by the current owner in 2000. As one of just 60 custom-built Nationals produced in 1913, it stands as a rare and significant piece of automotive history, preserving the legacy of National Motor Vehicle Company for generations to come.
