[1] Early versions of the Marion car had transversely-mounted 16-hp Reeves air-cooled engines, and double chain drive.

[2] Motor car racing was actively undertaken to provide recognition for Marion.

[1][2] John N. Willys, President of Overland Automobile Company, bought controlling interest in Marion in October, 1908.

The Marion Motor Car Company remained under-capitalized until 1912, when capital stock was raised from $100,000 to $1,125,0000.

They were designed as minimalist, stripped down vehicles that were fitted with the most powerful engine offered by Marion.