Vehicle Description
At first glance, the Cord 810/812 may not seem like a car born of
the Great Depression. But during those anxious years, high end
manufacturers were struggling to sell extravagant machines, as even
the wealthiest of buyers shied away from flaunting their status
quite as openly in public. Many manufacturers resorted to
developing lower priced models to make up sales. Packard developed
the Junior series, Lincoln added the Zephyr line and GM introduced
LaSalle to fit between Buick and Cadillac. Even Duesenberg wasn't
immune to the pressure and work was begun on a "baby" Duesenberg
that could help pick up sagging sales. Partially through its
development, the baby Duesenberg idea was dropped, as it was
thought it could tarnish the illustrious brand. But E.L. Cord, the
man in charge of Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg, saw great potential in the
design and pressed forward to produce it as an all-new model for
his revived Cord brand. The Cord L-29 had been out of production
for some time, and E.L. saw this as an opportunity to revive the
brand that bore his name. Development of the new car forged ahead,
and the Cord 810/812 was realized by 1936. In spite of its "entry
level" roots, technical boundaries were pushed to the limits.
Drawing inspiration from the innovative Citroen Traction Avant,
Cord designer Gordon Buehrig gave the 810 a semi-monocoque chassis,
and it was the first American car with both front wheel drive and
independent front suspension. Motivation was courtesy of a Lycoming
V8 engine (Lycoming being part of E.L. Cord's industrial empire)
and a solenoid actuated pre-selector transmission. Of course the
most distinguishing feature of the 810/812 was its Gordon
Buehrig-penned bodywork. The front end featured curvaceous fenders
with hidden headlights - a first for any production car. Rather
than a traditional radiator shell, the Cord's radiator was hidden
behind a sleek and unorthodox wraparound grille and a uniquely
shaped hood, which earned it the nickname "Coffin Nose". Fully
extended doors, no running boards and a sleek, minimally adorned
body gave the 810 its distinct appearance. Nearly 80 years later,
the Cord 810/812 is still considered to be one of the greatest
American car designs in history. This fine 1936 Cord 810
Westchester Sedan is an Auburn Cord Duesenberg (ACD) Certified
Category 1 original example of one of the most iconic American
automobiles of all time. Coming out of recent long-term ownership,
it is a remarkable survivor that has never had, nor has it ever
needed, a full restoration. It is finished in Palm Beach Tan, with
very good paintwork applied over straight and properly aligned
panels with excellent, consistent gaps. During a time when cars
were defined by their prominent chrome radiator shells and trim,
Gordon Buehrig eschewed the flash in favor of a subtle, measured
design with limited chrome adornment. That said, bumpers, wheel
covers and door handles provided some subtle flash, all of which
appear in very good order on this example. The bumpers, wearing
original overriders, are straight and tidy with good quality
plating and detail. The original interior presents in very good
order, again, well detailed and tidy though showing well-earned
patina from use since installed at the factory in 1936! The maroon
upholstery piped in off white complements the Palm Beach Tan body
color quite well. The seats, door panels and headlining remain in
very good condition with quality trim accented with very good
chrome fittings and hardware. Cord's signature instrument panel is
beautifully presented with its aeronautic-style engine-turned
fascia and an array of dials keeping the driver informed of
underhood matters. The original numbers-matching Lycoming V8 engine
and undercarriage are tidy, appearing sorted and well-maintained.
Under the care of its most recent owner, the car received new
cylinder heads, a complete transmission rebuild by marque expert
Lee Foldenhauer, new water pump and more to ensure the car was
fully fit for touring enjoyment. This is a singularly well
maintained and preserved example of one of the most important
marques and models of the mid-Thirties. It is as nice as it gets
without being restored -- which for some sophisticated collectors
is even better than a great restoration. The specification and
condition of this 810 Westchester should lend it very well to
touring, and thanks to the Cord 810/812's recognition as a CCCA
Full Classic, it is eligible for CARavan touring and is well suited
to regular enjoyment. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7643-1936-cord-810-westchester/
