1937 Cord 812 Phaeton Convertible - Limited Edition
This model S/N 200/1500
Legendary for its bold and distinctive styling, the Cord 812 features technical innovations such as front wheel drive, retractable headlamps and of course, the supercharged V-8 engine. When Franklin Mint Precision Models first released this model, none other than Gordon Buehrig himself (the original designer) approved the master patterns and finished production pieces. Now, this exclusive Limited Edition die-cast replica honors this historic design in a strictly limited run of just 1,500 pieces worldwide.
It has been called one of the most influential cars in automotive history. The 1937 Cord 812 immediately turned heads, combining innovation with performance that was both exciting and proficient.
The Cord 812's history begins with the idea of designing a mid-range Duesenberg that would sell between the company's relatively affordable model and the exclusive Model J. Headed by chief designer Gordon M. Buehrig, the "baby Duesenberg" design never reached production because of an economic disaster in the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg triumvirate. After a few months, however, the Cord Corporation approved the construction of a similar model and Buehrig was given the opportunity of a lifetime - overall responsibility for the design of an innovative automobile.
The innovations on Buehrig's model are legendary. To enhance the interior room, a "step-down" passenger floor was designed. Concealed headlamps, that were raised and lowered by chrome-plate handcranks under the dash, predated similar features on future sports cars. It placed the horn on the steering wheel and put the handbrake under the dash. The hubcap, with the twelve cooling holes around its perimeter, covered the entire wheel. The Cord 812 was also available with a supercharged Lycoming engine that was capable of speeds up to 110 mph.
But of all the innovations, the Cord 812's front-wheel drive format was the most remarkable. It was one of the world's first cars with front-wheel drive to be mass produced.
However, it was looks more than innovation that made the Cord 812 a great automobile - hinges were concealed to give a streamlined look; running boards were scrapped as being too "old-fashioned." The long "alligator" hood with louvered grille and the aerodynamic "pontoon-type" fenders added to the impression that this was a car ahead of its time.
Throughout the world, the Cord is regarded as a landmark in automotive design. The New York Museum of Modern Art selected the Cord as one of the eight finest examples of industrial design and automotive art, an honor that reflects the Cord's impact on automotive history.
Limited Edition of 1,500 worldwide
Technical Specifications:
•Engine: 90-degree V-8
•Horsepower: 195 @ 4,200 RPM
•Displacement: 288.64 cubic inches
•Wheelbase: 125 Inches
•Transmission: 4-speed selective manual
•Brakes: Bendix 4-wheel hydraulic drum type
•Induction System: Stromberg Duplex Carburetor, Schwitzer-Cummins Supercharger
Operating Features:
•Doors: Your model's doors are hinged to open at the rear.
•Steering: The front wheels can be positioned for display.
•Hood: Your model's hood is hinged and opens to reveal the engine detail.
•Trunk: Your model's trunk will open to an approximate 45-degree angle.
•Spare Tire: The spare tire is permanently mounted.
•Convertible Top: Your model's convertible top is removable.
Artikelnummer: B11F078