1937 Cord 812

Serial No. 32493 H

• Refurbished by LaVines Automotive in a splendid period-correct color
• Desirable four-seat Convertible Phaeton coachwork
• One of the most advanced engineered automobiles of the era
• CCCA Full Classic and ACD Club award winner

As a faltering economy (and perhaps overzealous sales goals) led to Duesenbergs untimely demise, E.L. Cord considered adding a baby companion model to bolster the bottom line. He enlisted designer Gordon Buehrig to design a concept, which didnt reach production in its initial form, but it formed the basis of the revival for Cords eponymous car company, which last produced the L-29 in 1932.

Buehrigs new Cord 810 pushed the boundaries of contemporary automotive design and engineering, employing semi-monocoque construction, front-wheel drive, an electro-magnetic pre-select gearbox, and later, an optional supercharged V8 engine. Yet, with all of that engineering wizardry, the styling made the most significant impact. The unconventional yet striking shape eschewed norms such as running boards and flashy upright chrome radiator shells. Gordon Buehrig penned a streamlined form with curvaceous aerodynamic fenders featuring hideaway headlights, slab-sided bodywork, full-length doors concealing hidden running boards, and a distinct coffin-shaped hood with wraparound air intake slats in place of the traditional radiator grille.

The new Cord hit showrooms in several body styles. Four-door models consisted of the Beverly and Westchester sedans, with long-wheelbase options arriving with the 812 in 1937. Two-door models were both open the four-seat Convertible Phaeton Sedan and the two-seat Cabriolet. Buehrig deftly adapted the styling for the open cars, which featured sophisticated disappearing tops that were as elegant in place as they were folded. After nearly a century, the Cord 810/812 is widely recognized as one of the most significant works in industrial design history, a piece of automotive art treasured by car collectors and design aficionados worldwide.

According to its most recent owner, the story of this 1937 Cord 812 Phaeton picks up in 1974, when his Cord fanatic father (further evidence that our hobby is a genetic affliction), made a family trip out of going to look at an old car. It took them to Kenosha, Wisconsin, and the workshop of Harolds Homeless Hudsons. Sitting in the back of the garage under a tarp and among the myriad bits of Hudsons was this green Cord 812 Phaeton, which Harold Jornt had owned since 1961. A deal was done though dads bargaining possibly power weakened by his teenage sons vocal enthusiasm for the car and it soon came home with them.

Remarkably, the Cord has remained in the family ever since, surpassing half a century. After passing from father to son, it continued to be cherished and enjoyed, and in more recent years, it was treated to mechanical and cosmetic refurbishment by the highly respected specialists at LaVine Restorations of Indiana. For that project, the car was refinished to a high standard in the rare official Cord color of Cool Orchard Green. Additionally, the chrome was restored, the drivetrain serviced, and engine compartment detailed. It received Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Club Certification in the early 1980s, and an ACD Club first prize award in 2010, and it continues to look resplendent today.

The cabin is trimmed in brown mottled leather, with complementing green carpets. At the time of its refurbishment, the upholstery was detailed and tidied but left unrestored, however, the instruments were all refurbished to a high standard and the dash refinished in black with a matching black wheel. The instrument panel was also beautifully restored in the factory-correct engine-turned finish. Additionally, the top was restored in beautiful grey-green canvas.

Factory records show this car was originally built with the supercharged Lycoming FC engine, yet it is currently powered by a naturally aspirated FD engine. This is a not-uncommon fitment often made in the interest of reliability. Thankfully, it retains the iconic exposed chrome pipes, and the engine compartment is beautifully detailed with superb black porcelain and factory correct finishes.

Many consider the 810/812 to be Gordon-Buehrigs masterpiece, celebrated as one of the most technically advanced American cars of the classic era. For any collection focusing on American icons or groundbreaking design, a Cord 812 is a must-have addition. Offered from over 50 years of continuous single-family ownership, this cherished and beautifully presented Cord will undoubtedly continue to turn heads from the road to the show field and be a welcome addition to active groups like the ACD Club, AACA, or CCCA.

Offers welcome and trades considered.