In 1929, the front-wheel drive L-29 Cord was announced – a first for American production cars. It was produced for just three years. Four years later the Cord name returned on what was originally conceived as a “baby Duesenberg.” Featuring masterful styling by designer Gordon Buehrig, both the car and the company were gone after 1937. Just 2,320 left production lines over two years.
Joining the Cord line in 1937 was the Custom Berline which offered more interior room thanks to a 7-inch wheelbase stretch to 132 inches. It is easily distinguished from other models by an eighth grille-hood louver on its coffin nose. There were just 48 were produced including 21 with the supercharged 175hp 289cid Lycoming V-8 engine.
Rarest among the Cord 810/812 body styles is the Custom Berline. Of 48 produced, just 21 were supercharged cars like the example presented here, offering a 50 hp increase. New for 1937, the Custom series addressed requests for a more formal offering, accomplished with a 7″ increase in wheelbase. Mindful of maintaining the proportions of the landmark Gordon Buehrig design, the Custom series examples were slightly taller, recognizable by the addition of an eighth louver in the grille. A limited number of Berlines came with a deluxe rear vanity, which included dual glove boxes, lighters and ashtrays, rear radio controls, and a windup glass division window.
Wonderfully restored in formal black with a dark blue broadcloth interior, this car strikes an elegant yet sporty profile. Its mechanical prowess was demonstrated in 2007 during the 10-day, 1,600-mile Pebble Beach® Motoring Classic, capped by a showing at the Concours d’Elegance as part of a select group of cars in the featured Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg classes. In July 2017, it was awarded a first place in CCCA judging, scoring 99.5 points.
A rare combination of Berline exclusivity, the supercharged engine, and the deluxe rear vanity makes this Cord a very rare combination. Add to the mix this example’s highpoint restoration and proven roadworthiness and you have a rare Cord indeed.
We are family owned company specializing in restoring Mercedes-Benz Grand 600 and 300SEL 6.3 automobiles. Based in Virginia we also have a large private collection of M-100 powered automobiles. If you are interested in viewing the collection or would like to enquire about a restoration project, please contact our office.
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