1922 Mercer Series 5 Raceabout
Built in Trenton, New Jersey, the 1922 Mercer Series 5 Raceabout represented a significant advancement in performance car design. This two-seater combined powerful engineering with a minimalist approach to bodywork, creating a unique driving experience that set it apart from its contemporaries.
The Series 5 Raceabout was powered by a formidable 298 cubic inch L-head inline four-cylinder engine. This powerplant, designed by the talented Eric Delling, produced an impressive 70 horsepower – a significant figure at that time when 20-40hp was the norm.
The engine’s single updraft carburetor and four-speed manual transmission worked in harmony to deliver exhilarating performance.
Aesthetically, the Raceabout was a striking sight on the roads. Its sleek, doorless body exemplified the pure essence of a sports car. The absence of a roof or windows further emphasized its racing pedigree and appealed to enthusiasts seeking the ultimate open-air driving experience.
The flashy yellow paint scheme of some models ensured these vehicles stood out in a crowd.
The Raceabout’s chassis was equally impressive. It featured a live-axle suspension system complemented by semi-elliptical leaf springs and shock absorbers. This setup provided a balance between handling prowess and ride comfort. The car’s 115-inch wheelbase contributed to its stability at high speeds.
Inside the cockpit, the Raceabout offered a spartan yet functional environment. The two-passenger layout prioritized the driving experience above all else. While luxurious amenities were scarce, the car’s interior perfectly suited its intended purpose as a pure driver’s machine.
One of the Raceabout’s most notable features was its guaranteed top speed. Mercer boldly claimed that each car could achieve 75 miles per hour or better – an astounding figure for the early 1920s.
This performance capability set the Raceabout apart from its contemporaries and cemented its status as a true speed demon of its era.
Braking duties were handled by two-wheel mechanical drum brakes. While this system may seem primitive by modern standards, it was typical for high-performance cars of the period. Later models would eventually incorporate four-wheel braking, further enhancing the car’s stopping power.
The Raceabout faced limited direct competition in the American market. Few manufacturers could match its combination of performance, engineering sophistication, and exclusivity. Its closest rivals might have included other high-end sports cars of the era, such as certain Stutz models, like the Bearcat.
Production of the Series 5 Raceabout was relatively limited, contributing to its rarity and desirability among collectors today. Each example was essentially hand-built, reflecting the craftsmanship and attention to detail that characterized Mercer’s approach to automobile manufacturing.
The 1922 Mercer Series 5 Raceabout stands as an excellent example of American engineering ingenuity during a transformative period in automotive history. Its blend of raw power, advanced design, and uncompromising focus on performance made it a true icon of its time.
Credit: RM Sotheby’s
