The 1937 Cord 812 stands as Gordon Buehrig's masterpiece, an enduring symbol of brilliance, beauty, and creativity in automotive design. As part of the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg family, this iconic vehicle is a true statement of sophistication and innovation.
In 1937, the Cord 812 was available with an optional supercharger, setting it apart from many other vehicles of its time. This supercharged model is distinguished by its brilliant chrome plate and external exhaust pipes mounted on each side of the hood. The powerful engine setup provided the Cord 812 with an impressive horsepower rating between 186-195 @ 4200 rpm, making it one of the most powerful cars of its era.
The 812's design remains one of the most distinctive of the 20th century. The split rear window gives the car an interesting shape, complemented by a rear bustle trunk that offers additional storage space. One notable feature is the retractable headlamps on the front fenders, which add a touch of elegance to the overall design.
The Cord 812 is also a front-wheel-drive car. The transmission is positioned in front of the engine, similar to the design of the Citroën Traction Avant, an advanced configuration for the time. This layout contributed to better handling and stability, setting the Cord 812 apart from many of its contemporaries.
Introduced at the 1935 New York Auto Salon, the Cord 812's groundbreaking design left spectators awe-struck, with some even standing atop other cars to catch a glimpse of this automotive marvel. The rush of sales requests following its debut led to swift production, with the 1937 model year resolving minor issues and thus considered the year of choice.
The 1937 Cord 812 features an intercooled, supercharged Flathead Lycoming V8 engine, which unleashed a conservatively rated 186 horsepower at 4200 rpm. The exterior is adorned with brilliant chrome plating and external exhaust pipes mounted on each side of the hood, creating a visual spectacle that announces its presence like no other.
Among the rarest and most desirable are the supercharged models with outside exhaust pipes, solidifying their status as some of the fastest and most drivable pre-war cars. The Cord 812 transcends its era, offering a driving experience, handling, and aesthetic appeal that continue to captivate automotive enthusiasts.
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