Alco #8 (1909)

First Two-Time Winner of the Vanderbilt Cup Races (1909 and 1910)

Make: American Locomotive Company
Year: 1909
Mechanician: Frank Lee
Horsepower: 100

The Alco "Black Beast" was the first two-time winner of the Vanderbilt Cup Races. Driving by Harry Grant, this 100-hp Alco won the 1909 and 1910 Vanderbilt Cup Races held on Long Island.

 

Year Built: 1909 (102 years old)
Manufacturer: American Locomotive Company (Providence, Rhode Island)
Nickname: “Bête Noire” (Black Beast)  Note: Original 1911 “Noir” logo did not have the “e”
Original Cost: $6,000 (1909) equivalent to $140,000 (2011)
 

Engine: 6 cylinders, 680.8 cubic inches,11.5 liters, “T” head engine with four-speed transmission, double chain drive, maximum 1,400 RPM, dual ignition, Newcomb carburetor and Bosch magneto, Engine #: 101
Bore: 5 1/8 inches     Stroke: 5 1/2 inches
Horsepower: 60 horsepower stock model modified to 100 BHP
Maximum Speed: 121 mph

Suspension: Front and rear solid axle and longitudinal leaf spring suspension
Brakes: Two rear wheel inboard mechanical drum service brakes and transmission-mounted mechanical drum hand brake
Components: Adjustable Hartford shock absorbers, 1907 brass Stewart speedometer and 1909 porcelain Rhode Island license plate # 1508RI
Wheelbase: 134 inches
Weight: 3,306 pounds
Chassis #: 101901