Compact, densely engineered and years ahead of its contemporaries, the Miller FWD Special featured full four-wheel drive and independent suspension, powered initially by Miller’s proven 308-ci, four-cam V8. The chassis had been laid out with characteristic foresight to accept either the V8 or Miller’s forthcoming 255-ci 4-cylinder engine, though the latter was not ready in time for the car’s debut.
Two examples were completed just in time for the 1932 Indianapolis 500, with this car finished in “light chrome yellow” at FWD’s request. The company’s president, Walter A. Olen, selected the name by which the car would become known: the Miller FWD Special. FWD’s car, chassis 02, was assigned to board-track star Bob McDonough for his anticipated return to Indianapolis.
In practice and qualifying, the promise of the new Millers was unmistakable. Both were among the fastest cars in the field, immediately validating Miller’s belief in the advantages of four-wheel drive. Sadly, the race itself proved brief. Within minutes of the start, both cars retired with mechanical issues — inevitable teething problems for such a radical design.
With the 4-cylinder installed, the Miller FWD Special finally delivered on its promise. At the 1934 Indianapolis 500, [Frank] Brisko qualified 4th-fastest and led the race for more than 60 laps. Ultimately, extended pit stops relegated him to 9th place at the finish, but the performance demonstrated conclusively that the four-wheel-drive Miller was a genuine contender.
Mechanical issues again intervened in 1935, but in 1936 the Miller achieved its best-ever result at the Speedway, finishing 4th. In 1937, FWD enlisted Pete DePaolo to manage the program, with Tony Willman driving. In its final Indy appearance, the engine threw a rod, bringing the car’s championship racing career to an end.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the Miller FWD Special appeared at major historic events including the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Louis Vuitton Classic and the Watkins Glen 50th Anniversary Celebration. John Price, a dedicated collector of Miller race cars and American racing history, has owned the car since 2008. Maintained in his museum, it has made select public appearances, including the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, where it was featured in a special class honoring the legacy of Harry Miller.
(Introductory description courtesy of Gooding Christie’s.)
