The 1937 Cord 812 remains a pinnacle of Art Deco automotive design, a car so revolutionary that it still looks like a vision of the future nearly a century later. This Westchester sedan carries a particularly prestigious history, being one of the first 100 examples hand-built in 1935 to qualify the marque for the New York Auto Show before being sold as a 1937 model. Discovered in a Michigan barn in the 1980s, the car underwent a comprehensive refurbishment in California. It now serves as a unique restomod that maintains the iconic “coffin-nose” silhouette while utilizing a more accessible and reliable modern American powertrain.
The Masterpiece of Gordon Buehrig
The exterior design of this 1937 model is a testament to the genius of Gordon Buehrig, featuring a louvered wraparound grille and the famous hideaway headlights operated by hand cranks. Finished in a soft Pale Green, the bodywork retains design elements exclusive to the first 100 cars, such as hand-hammered firewall ribs and unique rear fender guards. Its silhouette is defined by the absence of a traditional radiator shell and the inclusion of concealed door hinges, which were radical departures for the era. Dual side mirrors and Lucas driving lamps complement the period-correct 16-inch steel wheels, which are wrapped in elegant wide-whitewall tires.
Art Deco Elegance in Pale Green Cloth
Inside the cabin, the Cord offers a sophisticated environment trimmed in Pale Green cloth with dark green piping, reflecting the luxury standards of the pre-war era. The dashboard is a work of art in itself, hosting an engine-turned panel that houses a 120-mph speedometer and a 5,000-rpm tachometer. To bridge the gap between classic style and modern usability, the car was outfitted with an air conditioning system and a tilt steering column during its 2000s refurbishment. Details like the riveted brass switchgear labels remain as a nod to its early production status, while front and rear lap belts provide a necessary modern safety update.
Oldsmobile V8 Heart and Front Wheel Drive
Performance is significantly modernized via a 307ci Oldsmobile V8 sourced from a 1980s Toronado, which maintains the Cord’s original front-wheel-drive spirit. This engine features a four-barrel carburetor and is paired with a General Motors Turbo-Hydramatic three-speed automatic transaxle. The cooling system is ingeniously managed by a radiator with dual fans mounted under the rear of the car to preserve the clean lines of the coffin-nose front end. This swap provides a reliable power source that allows the car to keep pace with contemporary traffic while delivering the smooth, effortless torque characteristic of a classic American V8.
Technical Specifications
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 307ci Oldsmobile V8 |
| Induction | Four-Barrel Carburetor |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Automatic Transaxle |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Braking | Power Front Disc / Rear Drum |
| Steering | Power Assisted |
| Suspension | Independent Front w/ Transverse Leaf |
| Wheel Size | 16-Inch Steel |
Chassis Upgrades and Mechanical Refinement
Underneath the striking Westchester bodywork, the chassis has been updated to provide a vastly improved driving experience compared to a stock 1930s vehicle. The addition of power steering and power-assisted brakes with front discs ensures that navigating modern roads is a low-effort affair. The suspension maintains the original independent front setup with a transverse leaf spring, which was a hallmark of Cord innovation. Recent maintenance and the 2,000 miles added by the current owner since 2019 suggest a car that is ready for the road. Its history as a barn-find saved by a General Motors executive adds a layer of provenance to its technical transformation.
A Rare Intersection of History and Usability
The 1937 Cord 812 is already a blue-chip collectible, but this example offers a unique selling point for the enthusiast who wants to drive rather than just display. By utilizing a Toronado-based powertrain, the car bypasses the notorious complexity of the original Lycoming engines and pre-selector gearboxes. It competes in a narrow market of high-end classics where Art Deco style meets restomod practicality. As one of the original 100 hand-built frames, its rarity is unquestionable, yet its mechanical heart makes it one of the most approachable Cords currently available on the market.
A Reimagined Art Deco Legend
This 1937 Cord 812 Westchester is a stunning marriage of pre-war avant-garde styling and late-20th-century American muscle. It preserves the visual drama of Gordon Buehrig’s masterpiece while offering the peace of mind that comes with a proven Oldsmobile V8 and automatic transaxle. For the collector who seeks a show-stopping silhouette combined with the ability to enjoy the open road, this Cord represents a rare opportunity. It is a vehicle that commands respect at any gathering, serving as a rolling tribute to the innovation of the Auburn Automobile Company and the enduring legacy of the Cord marque.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
