1930 CORD L29 SPORT PHAETON

After reinventing Auburn as a leader in stylish and high-quality automobiles, E.L. Cord decided to build a car worthy of his own name - priced to compete with the likes of Packard, Cadillac and Stutz. Typical for the daring Mr. Cord, he eschewed tradition and specified a car that was both innovative and beautiful. Designed by an ex-Miller engineer, the L29 was a sleek and dramatically styled machine that featured front-wheel drive. Cord shared its 301ci Lycoming Straight-8 with Auburn, but turned 180 degrees in the chassis with a forward-mounted transmission, which meant no tunnel was needed and the body could be mounted low on the chassis. This also allowed for a flat floor for additional passenger comfort giving the L29 its signature rakish and low-slung look. Performance was quite good, and thanks to the low center of gravity, handling was impressive. Many of the great American coachbuilders of the day took full advantage of the low body height, gracing the L29 with an array of sleek and stylish bodies. Only 4,400 L29s were sold between 1929 and 1932, and it remains a highly collectible icon of the Classic Era. This 1930 Cord L29 wears sleek and beautiful Sport Touring Phaeton coachwork built in the style of Rollston of New York. This exclusive coachbuilder bodied a just a few hundred cars in its brief existence, but quickly gained a reputation their exquisite construction, impeccable design and high quality. The Sport Phaeton body on this L29 reflects that philosophy, with equally high-quality construction, wonderfully stylish lines and a beautifully finished restoration in dramatic colors. The car is nicely adorned with plenty of high-quality brightwork that includes a radiator stone guard, six chrome wire wheels, chrome headlights and the signature L29 curved bumpers. A rare and beautiful Lalique crystal goddess mascot tops the body-colored radiator shell. Finely crafted blue leather complements the body colors, and a full top is trimmed in tan canvas. Whether the top is up or down, this stylish L29 Sport Phaeton is a real stunner, without a bad angle to be found. Like the body, the chassis and Lycoming engine are well-detailed and the car runs quite well, returning strong performance from the 301ci Straight-8. This car is a multiple concours award-winner at events such as Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance and the Meadowbrook Concours d'Elegance.

A fabulous Cord L29 with Sport Touring Phaeton coachwork in the style of Rollston of New York. A multiple concours award-winner, it is ready for road or show. Powered by a Lycoming 301ci Straight-8 engine and 3-speed manual transmission.