Vehicle Description
The highly advanced Cord 810/812 was born during the turbulent
economic times of the mid-1930s. As many prestigious automakers
experienced plummeting sales, some turned to mid-priced companion
lines in hopes of bolstering lagging sales of their high-end
offerings. Cadillac, in particular, found success with the LaSalle
range, and even Packard offered entry-level models at various times
through the 1930s. As the Great Depression wore on, the few
remaining buyers with the means to purchase extravagant cars were
reluctant to flaunt their wealth. Even the once-mighty Duesenberg
was not immune, as ever fewer orders filled the books. Eager to
attract new clients and cash in on the prestige of the Duesenberg
name, Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg chief E.L. Cord suggested a "baby
Duesenberg" could compete in the increasingly busy mid-priced
luxury car market. Development began based on sketches by Gordon
Buehrig, but the board balked and abandoned the project out of fear
that it would cheapen the illustrious Duesenberg name. The project
got a second wind when the sole prototype was driven by Buehrig and
Denny Duesenberg (Fred's son) back to the Auburn factory in Auburn,
Indiana. Initially, managers hoped the car could revitalize the
floundering Auburn, but they scrapped that idea, and the vehicle
instead became the basis for the revival of the Cord brand.
Inspiration for the mechanical specification came from Citroen's
brilliant Traction Avant, and it featured a semi-monocoque chassis,
V8 engine, front-wheel drive, a pre-selector gearbox, and
independent front suspension. In place of the traditional radiator
grille, Buehrig and his team of designers devised a series of
wrap-around louvers and a distinct coffin-shaped hood. Rounded
fenders with retractable headlamps - an industry-first - flanked
the radiator. Thanks to the front-wheel-drive layout, the body sat
so low on the chassis that running boards became unnecessary, so
the doors extended down for a clean, minimalist look. Over eight
decades since its sensational debut, the Cord 810/812 remains one
of the most beautiful and iconic American automobiles, cherished by
enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs of exceptional design.
This 1937 Cord 812 is a rare and desirable Custom Beverly, riding
on the extended 132-inch wheelbase chassis. Coming from long-term
stewardship by active Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Club and CCCA members,
this 812 wears an older restoration in the attractive combination
of black over a burgundy interior and benefits from some recent
freshening. This car is designated by the CCCA as a Full Classic
and is a former National First Prize winner in club concours
events. The elegant black paint suits the extended wheelbase body,
lending a sophisticated, almost sinister presence. The paintwork is
quite attractive overall, with good bodywork and detailing
consistent with the high quality restoration. Chrome and brightwork
are in similarly good condition all around, with fittings and
accessories including amber Cord fog lights, correct chrome wheel
covers, and wide whitewall tires. According to marque expert Josh
Malks's seminal book "The Cord Complete," the company produced
approximately 2,900 cars in total over the brief two-year
production run. Of those, Malks estimates just 229 came equipped as
Custom Beverly sedans, denoted by the C-105 body number. Aside from
the body number, the 8-louver grille is a quick way to identify
this as a factory Custom model, while the serial numbers confirm it
as a very late production example. The additional wheelbase allows
for a spacious and comfortable interior with luxurious
accommodations for five passengers. Rich maroon fabric upholstery
covers the seats, door panels, and headlining, with charcoal
carpets and piping providing an eye-catching contrast. The chrome
trim and interior handles are in good condition, with some minor
pitting consistent with the well-preserved nature of the
restoration. Restored gauges set into the trademark engine-turned
alloy instrument panel, with the painted steel dash presenting in
good order aside from some minor scuffs in the finish. Options
include a period correct Philco radio and fold-down armrests in the
front and rear. As with every Cord 810/812, power comes from the
288 cubic-inch Lycoming V8 engine, designed specifically for this
model. It pairs with a four-speed pre-select gearbox, operated via
the delicate H-pattern selector on the steering column. Under-hood
presentation is quite respectable overall and appropriately tidy
for a car that has been used and enjoyed since its restoration. It
benefits from recent servicing and presents with mostly
period-appropriate hardware, wiring, and plumbing. According to the
serial number, this car was born with a Schwitzer-Cummins
supercharger, however the engine it wears today is a non-blown
version. Engine swaps of this nature are quite common with Cords,
and the non-blown means generally more reliable running. Elegant
and luxurious, this Cord 812 Custom Beverly benefits from years of
care in the hands of dedicated enthusiasts, and it is now suitably
mellowed and ready for enjoyment out on the road with the ACD Club,
CCCA, or other enthusiast groups. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6542-1937-cord-812-custom-beverly-sedan/