For Sale: 1936 Cord 810 Westchester in Grand Rapids, Michigan

1936 Cord 810 Westchester4-Door- Stunning 30's Classic- 288ci/125hp Lycoming L-Head V8 Engine - Innovative 4-Speed Pre-Selector Semi-Automatic Transmission- Finished in Factory Correct Cool Orchard Green- E.L. Cord's Second-Generation Front-Wheel-Drive Design- Featured in John Malks' Definitive Reference Book, Cord Complete- Over $15k Invested in Mechanical Restoration by Renowned Cord Specialist John Craft- 78k Miles Shown The 1936 Cord 810 Westchester stands as one of the most revolutionary American automobiles ever produced, combining groundbreaking engineering with timeless Art Deco styling. Designed by the legendary Gordon Buehrig, the 810 stunned the automotive world when it debuted at the 1935 New York Auto Show. Its unmistakable "coffin nose" front end, hidden door hinges, retractable headlights, and complete absence of running boards made it unlike anything else on the road. These innovative design elements would influence automotive styling for decades and continue to make the Cord one of the most recognizable collector cars ever built. This example is one of just 1,174 Westchester sedans produced for the 1936 model year and is presented in its believed-to-be original factory color of Cool Orchard Green.Beneath the sculpted hood is Cord's advanced 288 cubic-inch Lycoming L-head V8 engine producing 125 horsepower. Power is delivered through an equally innovative four-speed electrically shifted pre-selector transmission driving the front wheels, a remarkably advanced configuration for the era. The front-wheel-drive layout allowed for a lower floor, improved interior space, and exceptional road manners compared to many of its contemporaries. Engineering innovations such as unit-body construction and the "step-down" passenger compartment further demonstrated just how far ahead of its time the 810 truly was.This Westchester benefits from a high-quality older restoration that has been exceptionally well maintained. The Cool Orchard Green finish remains beautifully presented and is complemented by excellent chrome brightwork, wide whitewall tires, and the Cord's iconic streamlined profile. Inside, the light tan upholstered cabin is both elegant and functional, featuring proper instrumentation, a distinctive dashboard layout, and period-correct appointments that perfectly capture the sophistication of one of America's most innovative luxury automobiles.Adding to its desirability, this Cord boasts an impressive ownership history, having spent many years in the collection of the president of Standard Oil Company before later belonging to a respected Arizona artist. The car has also been featured in John Malks' authoritative reference book Cord Complete and appeared on the BBC television program Leading America. More recently, the mechanical systems received significant attention from renowned Cord specialist John Craft, ensuring the drivetrain performs as intended while preserving the car's originality and drivability.Few automobiles so perfectly blend engineering innovation, historical significance, and breathtaking design as the Cord 810 Westchester. Revered by collectors and historians alike, the model remains a landmark achievement of pre-war American automotive engineering. Whether admired for its revolutionary front-wheel-drive chassis, its unmistakable styling, or its fascinating history, this beautifully restored 1936 Cord 810 Westchester represents an outstanding opportunity to own one of the most influential and iconic automobiles ever built.