The Journey of a Classic: 1936 Cord 810 Transformed
Meet the 1936 Cord 810, a car that began as a Westchester sedan and has undergone quite the transformation. Back in the 1990s, a marque specialist decided it was time for a facelift. The result? A sleek two-door model with a muscle car’s heart, courtesy of a 350ci Chevy V8 engine. Sixteen years ago, the current owner took it further, adding a General Motors 700R4 automatic transmission to channel the power through a formidable Ford 9” rear end. It’s not just a car; it’s a piece of art on a custom perimeter frame with Mustang II-inspired suspension and coilover shock absorbers.
All About the Style and Features
This customized beast roars down the road with power steering and the confidence of Wilwood disc brakes. The wheels stand out, chrome-covered, and the headlights pop up with mechanical precision. Inside, it’s all about the burgundy vibe, from the cloth upholstery to the engine-turned dashboard with Classic Instruments gauges. And yes, it’s as sleek and shiny as a new Mercedes SLK.
A Nod to Its Roots: The Cord 810’s Evolution
Originally introduced in 1935, the Cord 810’s distinctive style included a bold “coffin-nose” front and hand-cranked hideaway headlights. The Auburn Automobile Company offered six different body styles back in the day. But when production stopped, the 810 became the 812 for a brief encore in 1937, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire auto enthusiasts.
Modern Meets Classic in California
In Costa Mesa, California, this Cord 810 now offers a nostalgic ride with modern twists. Modified in the ’90s, it boasts a two-door style with black paint and a snazzy ceramic coating. It’s not losing touch with its vintage soul but embracing today’s performance adjustments, much like how the Audi Q3 bridges the gap between classic and contemporary elegance.
Did you know? Gordon Buehrig, the mastermind behind the Cord 810’s design, was just 30 years old when he created the iconic model.
Under the Hood: Performance Powerhouse
- All-American Muscle: A 350ci Chevrolet V8
- Modern Transmission: GM 700R4 automatic
- Suspension Upgrades: Mustang II-style front and four-link rear setup
- Brakes: Power-assisted Wilwood Dynalite with four-piston calipers
This car isn’t just about style; it’s a performance showstopper. The 350ci V8 engine has been the heartbeat since 1995, giving the Cord a personality packed with an Edelbrock carburetor and Performer intake manifold. Paired with a meticulous cooling system upgrade, it’s designed to keep running smoothly even as it turns heads wherever it goes.
A Well-Dressed Interior
Step inside to a burgundy-drenched interior. Fact is, it’s as rich as vintage wines with cloth-trimmed seats and a color-matched headliner. Modern touches include power windows, air conditioning, and a Pioneer CD player. Behind the wheel, a burgundy leather-wrapped steering wheel and a classic dash imbue authenticity. Under the current owner, the odometer has seen 4,000 more miles, bringing the total to just over 8,300.
The Lineage Continues
The VIN of this Cord, FB1501, narrates its tale, tracing back to its origins. Stamped on the cowl tag, this piece of history ties a vehicle’s past to its present glory. The car’s fame is justified by its blend of past mastery and modern engineering. Owning a piece like this is more than just possession—it’s celebrating automotive evolution.