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1937 Cord Model 812
Supercharged Convertible Phaeton
1937 factory price: $4,645
current value: $160,000+
wheelbase: 125"
engine: Lycoming V-8, supercharged, 190 hp rating
transmission: 4 speed electric, preselect vacuum assist
manufactured: Auburn, Indiana
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The Cord was the first production automobile with front wheel drive,
unit body construction, and disappearing headlights. Interestingly, the
lower outside corners of the dashboard feature small hand cranks. These
cranks were used to manually open and close the disappearing headlights.
Each light had to be cranked out individually. This is one of only 196
of this model built. It is the lowest, sleekest, fastest, and most
futuristic American car produced and sold during the 1930s. This vehicle boasted a 130 mph top speed straight
from the factory.
Powered by a supercharged Lycoming V-8, an advanced design pre-select
electro-hydraulic transmission transferred the power to the front
wheels. This car was--and to many, still is--considered an automotive
tour-de-force. Designed by Gordon Buehrig, the lines of this car
epitomize the essence of the Art Deco movement.
An identical 1937 Cord recently sold for $324,000.
Vehicle on display courtesy of The Canton Classic
Car Museum |
