Description
The Cord 812 Special, introduced in 1937 as part of the Cord 810/812 lineup, represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance in Cord automobiles. The 812 Special was a high-performance version of the Cord 812, distinguished primarily by its supercharged engine, which made it one of the fastest and most technologically advanced cars of its time.
At the heart of the 812 Special was a 4.7-liter Lycoming V8 engine, but unlike the standard 812, the Special came equipped with a supercharger. This boosted the engine’s power output from 125 horsepower to around 170 horsepower, allowing the car to reach speeds of up to 110 mph. The distinctive supercharged models were easily recognized by the chrome-plated external exhaust pipes that protruded from the sides of the hood, adding both visual flair and functional cooling for the engine.
Like other Cord 810 and 812 models, the 812 Special featured front-wheel drive, a rarity in American cars at the time. This layout, combined with the car’s low center of gravity and advanced suspension system, provided excellent handling and stability, making the 812 Special a highly capable and enjoyable car to drive. It was also equipped with a pre-selector four-speed manual transmission, which allowed drivers to “pre-select” gears before shifting, further enhancing the car’s innovative engineering.
The 812 Special retained the stunning “coffin-nose” design of the standard 812, created by designer Gordon Buehrig. This design included hidden, retractable headlights, another first for American cars, as well as a sleek, streamlined body free of running boards, giving it an ultra-modern look for its time. The supercharged models were further distinguished by their aggressive stance and the chrome exhaust pipes, which became one of the car’s most iconic features.
Inside, the Cord 812 Special offered a luxurious and comfortable cabin. High-quality materials, including leather upholstery and wood trim, were used throughout, and the dashboard was equipped with an array of gauges, including a tachometer—unusual for luxury cars of the era. The 812 Special was also available with advanced options like a radio and heater, making it both a high-performance vehicle and a refined luxury car.
Despite its innovations, the Cord 812 Special, like the rest of the Cord 810/812 series, faced financial difficulties. The high production costs and the effects of the Great Depression limited sales, and Cord’s parent company, Auburn, ceased production by 1937. Only a small number of 812 Specials were produced, making them extremely rare and highly desirable among collectors.
Today, the Cord 812 Special is regarded as one of the most significant American cars of the 20th century. Its combination of innovative technology, Art Deco design, and impressive performance makes it a standout in automotive history. The 812 Special’s rarity and iconic status ensure that it remains a prized collector’s item, with surviving examples commanding high values at auctions and in private collections.