1912 Marquette Model 25 Touring
One of the most short-lived automotive brands in history lasted just one model year, yet its reputation for performance and quality lived well beyond its limited production.
Introduced in late 1911 as “the outgrowth of two well-established and favorably known cars, the Rainier and the Welch-Detroit,” this luxury automobile represented William Durant’s ambitious expansion of General Motors through strategic acquisitions.
The Model 25 Touring stood on a stately 122-inch wheelbase, making it an imposing presence during the Edwardian period of automotive design. Very few surviving examples of these automobiles remain today, making them extremely rare collector pieces.
Power came from a 6.8-liter T-head four-cylinder engine producing 40 horsepower. The T-head configuration featured intake and exhaust valves positioned on opposite sides of the cylinder head, delivering exceptional performance for its time.
Priced between $3,000 and $4,000 (compared to $595-$900 for a Ford Model T), these automobiles targeted wealthy buyers. Poor management and Durant’s departure from General Motors led to the discontinuation of Marquette in September 1912, ending this promising marque after minimal production.
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