1927 Miller Model 91 Racer

Rules changes for the 1926 racing season limited the engine size to just 1.5 liters (91 cubic inches). Harry Miller and his extraordinarily talented men designed and built an entirely new car. There was no commonality of parts between the 91 and the 122 except for the outside purchased parts such as the tires, wheels, instruments, and electrical components. The model 122 and 91 rear-drive cars were virtually identical in appearance, with the exception of the 91's three-piece radiator and grille assembly.

Superchargers were fitted to all of the new 91 engines. In this guise, it was capable of producing 155 horsepower. After continual refinements, this was raised to over 250 horsepower.

This Miller 91 became so successful that it dominated on speedways of the 1920s and eventually led to the AAA's rule change for 1930 to the 'Junk Formula', in an effort to stop the Miller 91's winning streak.

This 1927 Miller 91 Rear Drive Racing Car is a faithful recreation with many original parts, including the Frank Lockhart 'Perfect Circle' Miller intercooler. Parts were sourced wherever they could be found. If none could be located, they were reproduced.

This example is one of the best recreations of the Miller 91 rear-drive race car; there are no known original Miller 91 rear-drive cars surviving.

In 2009 this recreation was offered for sale by RM Auctions at their Monterey Auction, where it was estimated to sell for $400,000 and $650,000. The lot failed to sell after achieving a high bid of $380,000.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2009