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1930 Cord L-29 Convertible Phaeton Sedan in Auburn, Indiana

Vehicle Description

To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' Auburn Fall event, 30 August - 2 September 2018.
Estimate:
$180,000 - $210,000

"Blondie," one of the best-known surviving L-29 convertible phaeton sedansKnown ownership history since new; original chassis, engine, and bodyDriven to the world premiere of Gone with the Wind in Atlanta in 1939125-hp, 298-cu. in. inline eight-cylinder engine, three-speed manual transmission, and front-wheel driveEligible for all Auburn Cord Duesenberg (ACD) Club events and activitiesClassic Car Club of America (CCCA) Full ClassicACD Club Certified Category 1 (CL-052)

This Cord L-29 was originally delivered in Atlanta, Georgia, to Silvey Speer as a gift for his granddaughter, Frances McKenzie. Unfortunately, the effects of the Great Depression forced Miss McKenzie to sell her car only two years later to Austin Abbott, an Atlanta-based Stutz dealer and event promoter. For the next three decades, the car Mr. Abbott dubbed "Blondie" appeared in literally hundreds of parades and events around Atlanta, becoming a central figure in the city's celebrations. It opened interstate highways, led parades, chauffeured political candidates, was vaulted by a team of stunt riders on horses, and, most famously, attended the world premiere of Gone with the Wind in 1939.

In the mid-1960s the car passed to Verney Bentley of Atlanta, who continued using it for parades and events, as well as in classic tours and shows; in his ownership it was certified by the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club as a Category 1 Original Car. Later, in the 1980s, it was owned by Murrell Smith, who performed the extensive, high-quality restoration that the car still wears today. Accessories include Dual side-mount spares fitted with mirrors, a trunk with matching tan canvas cover, and fine quality chrome bumpers and fittings.

"Blondie" is one of the best-known surviving L-29s and is ready for a continued show career or life in ACD Club and CCCA events with a happy new owner.To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/AF18.

Vehicle Details

  • 1930 Cord L-29 Convertible Phaeton Sedan
  • Listing ID: CC-1128190
  • Price: Auction Vehicle
  • Location:Auburn, Indiana
  • Year:1930
  • Make:Cord
  • Model:L-29 Convertible Phaeton Sedan
  • Exterior Color:White/Blue
  • Odometer:0
  • Stock Number:704579
  • VIN:FDA3007
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