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 most wealthy 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. As the 810 evolved into the 812
for 1937, some models gained a supercharger, while others remained
naturally aspirated. Several body styles were available, from
four-door sedans to the open-air phaeton. In fact, several four
door versions were available with different designations depending
on wheelbase, equipment and body fitments. At the "entry level" lay
the Westchester, followed by the Beverly, Custom Beverly and
range-topping Berline, the latter two riding on an extended
wheelbase. The most distinguishing feature between the Westchester
and Beverly was the addition of a "bustle" trunk on the on the
Beverly. It also offered more luxurious trappings inside, with
additional trim and equipment. The Beverly rode on a 125" wheelbase
and shared the same 288 cubic inch Lycoming V8 and sophisticated
preselect transmission with the rest of the model range. This fine
1937 Cord 812 Beverly Sedan is an attractive, usable example of one
of the most iconic American automobiles of all time. Coming out of
recent long-term ownership, it wears an older restoration that has
been well-maintained and presents in very good order, showing some
light patina in areas, remaining mechanically and cosmetically very
sound. 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. A pair of
period-correct Cord fog lamps is fitted to the front apron and the
original polished stone guards remain in good order on the rear
fenders. The interior presents in very good order, again, well
detailed and tidy though showing some patina from use since the
restoration was completed. Plum-colored 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. A
very cool period Motorola heater is fitted, presumably from new.
The 288 cubic inch Lycoming V8 engine and undercarriage are tidy,
appearing sorted and well-maintained. The specification and
condition of this 812 Beverly 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. The Cord 812 is an icon of American design and
this is a good quality, usable example that has benefitted from
long term ownership and care.