Vehicle Description
The 1936 Cord 810 Phaeton is undoubtedly one of the most
influential automobiles of its era, showcasing both groundbreaking
engineering and breathtaking design. Designed by the legendary
Gordon Buehrig, the Cord 810 stands out with its front-wheel-drive
powertrain, which includes the original 288 CID L-Head V8 engine,
producing 125 horsepower at 3,500 RPM, mated to a 4-speed
electronically shifted, pre-selector transmission. This innovative
mechanical setup, with 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes, placed the
Cord 810 decades ahead of its time. The car's unique design
elements, such as the blunt, louvered nose, a "step-down" floor,
unitary construction, hidden door hinges, and the absence of
running boards, emphasize its forward-thinking nature, making it a
true engineering marvel.
This no expense spared, authentic restoration showcases the car's
exceptional quality. Finished in Palm Beach Tan paint, the vehicle
features a stunning Dark Red leather interior, complemented by a
black convertible top-a classic combination that highlights the
810's striking design and luxury appeal. In addition, the car
boasts Allison Engineering cylinder heads, ensuring its mechanical
performance matches its iconic status.
The 810 Phaeton offered here has a rich ownership history dating
back to the 1940s, when it was first owned by Jack Smith. By 1962,
it was in the hands of James Gallup of Ohio, and later passed
through several more distinguished owners, including Garth Stemple,
Tob Wood in 1975, Robert Groff in 1976, and Edwin "Ned" Wright in
1988. Mr. Wright undertook a complete restoration of the car in the
mid-1990s, with significant mechanical upgrades, including the
fitting of Allison Engineering heads and a transmission rebuild by
noted Cord gearbox specialist Lee Foldenauer. Under Mr. Wright's
ownership, the car earned the AACA National Senior First Prize and
CCCA Senior Premier Winner awards. The car was subsequently owned
by Paul Lee of Florida, and in 2008, it was sold from his
collection.
After being acquired by Charles J. Noto, the car was Certified by
the ACD Club as a Category 1 Original Car and retains its original
engine. The front "stub frame" is correctly numbered to match the
serial number, although it does not carry a factory stamping. In
recent years, Mr. Noto completed another fresh restoration,
finishing the car in the superb color scheme of Palm Beach Tan over
a dark red interior with a black top-one of the most desirable
combinations for these iconic automobiles.
This Cord 810 Phaeton has earned significant recognition for its
excellence. It was chosen to represent the year 1936 in the
100-Year Parade by the AACA, and was also selected as the poster
car for the Stan Hywet Car Show and the Glenmoor Gathering of
Significant Automobiles. Additionally, the car has participated in
both the CCCA Canadian and Michigan CARavans and the AACA-VMCCA
Kentucky Glidden Tour, further proving its reliability and the
exceptional quality of its restoration.
Accompanying this car are the Cord manuals, as well as detailed
restoration photos and receipts, documenting the car's meticulous
restoration. This 1936 Cord 810 Phaeton is not only a standout
example of Buehrig's design genius but also a landmark in
automotive engineering and styling. With its perfect blend of
innovation, luxury, and history, this Cord 810 is a true
collector's masterpiece, one that continues to captivate automotive
enthusiasts and collectors alike.
