When the “new Cord” made its debut at the New York Auto Show in November 1935, it turned the automotive world on its ear. Onlookers reportedly stood on the roofs of other cars just to catch a glimpse of Gordon Buehrig’s advanced “new, original, and ornamental design for an automobile,” with its aerodynamic “coffin nose” louvered hood lacking a traditional radiator shell; its “step-down” floor; its unitary body construction; its hidden door hinges; its pop-up headlamps; and its total lack of running boards. Underneath was no less innovative, with a Lycoming V-8 running the front wheels through a four-speed, electrically shifted pre-selector transmission, which was operated by a “key” off the steering column; essentially, it was an H-pattern gear shift in miniature.

Orders for the new Cord flooded the manufacturer’s headquarters in Auburn, Indiana, but the car was not quite ready for production. By the time cars finally began to be delivered, many impatient customers had cancelled their orders, and the model that could have saved the Auburn Automobile Company became its death knell. The new Cord was only built for two years, and it has since gone down in history as one of the most beautiful automobiles of its time.

The 810 phaeton offered here is a particularly desirable example. The consignor notes that the car was purchased new in 1937 and was driven regularly before being put into long-term storage in 1958. Noted Cord expert George Earsman, a former president of the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum, discovered the car as a “barn find,” purchased it, and began a complete and documented restoration in 1994, with many original parts and all of the original sheet metal being utilized. The consignor’s father then purchased the car, showing and enjoying the car often before passing away earlier this year.

Speaking to the high-quality of the work completed, the car remains in exceptional condition to this day. Iconic Cigarette Cream livery combined with truly stunning black leather interior makes for a dramatic presentation, especially when combined with the factory chromed artillery wheels and wide whitewall tires. Plush tan carpeting and a matching brown soft top complete the classic look.

The 810 phaeton has long been one of the most highly desirable of all the Full Classics. Referred to by Gordon Buehrig as “rolling sculpture,” the chance to own a finely presented, four-owner example must not be taken lightly.