The 1931 Cord L29 Cabriolet was the first production front wheel drive car produces in the USA. E.L. Cord owner of the Auburn Automobile Company, wanted a car priced between the Auburn and the Duesenberg cars. The L29 was also the first production car with a unit power plant of engine, transmission, differential and front brakes as one unit.
It took the current owner 17 years to restore this car, doing everything himself. The car received a First Place Primary Award at the ACD Annual Meet in 2012.
The 1931 Cord L29 Cabriolet remains an iconic and groundbreaking vehicle in automotive history. Its advanced front-wheel-drive system, elegant design, and luxurious features set it apart as a pioneering model in the early 20th century. The Cord L29 remains a celebrated classic, admired by collectors and automotive enthusiasts for its historical significance, innovative engineering, and timeless style.
Overview
- Production Year: 1931
- Manufacturer: Cord Automobile, a subsidiary of Auburn Automobile Company
- Class: Luxury car
- Body Style: Cabriolet (convertible)
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The Cord L29 was powered by a 298.6 cubic inch (4.9-liter) Lycoming straight-eight engine.
- The engine produced approximately 125 horsepower, which was considerable for the period.
- Transmission:
- The car featured a 3-speed manual transmission.
- The front-wheel-drive layout allowed for a lower chassis, improving handling and stability.
- Chassis:
- The chassis design took advantage of the front-wheel-drive configuration, allowing for a lower center of gravity.
- The car's long wheelbase (137.5 inches) contributed to its smooth ride and impressive road presence.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension consisted of a beam axle and semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- The rear suspension used a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- Brakes:
- The Cord L29 was equipped with four-wheel mechanical drum brakes, offering reliable stopping power for the era.
Performance
- Top Speed: The top speed of the Cord L29 Cabriolet was around 80 mph (129 km/h), which was quite impressive for a luxury car of its time.
- Acceleration: The car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 20 seconds, respectable for the early 1930s.
- Handling: The front-wheel-drive layout and low center of gravity provided superior handling compared to many rear-wheel-drive cars of the era.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The Cord L29 Cabriolet featured sleek, flowing lines and an elegant, aerodynamic design.
- The car's low, raked profile was a result of its innovative front-wheel-drive configuration, which eliminated the need for a driveshaft tunnel and allowed for a lower floor.
- The Cabriolet body style included a retractable soft top, adding to the car's luxurious appeal.
- Interior:
- The interior of the Cord L29 Cabriolet was luxurious, with high-quality materials and attention to detail.
- The cabin featured comfortable seating for four passengers, with ample legroom and headroom.
- Instrumentation was stylish and functional, reflecting the car's premium status.
- Styling:
- The Cord L29 Cabriolet was designed by Al Leamy, known for his work on other iconic American cars.
- Signature design elements included the long hood, low roofline, and prominent fenders.
- The car's distinctive front grille and elegant lines made it stand out among other luxury cars of the time.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The Cord L29 Cabriolet is historically significant as the first American production car to feature front-wheel drive, a major innovation in automotive engineering.
- It showcased advanced design and engineering, influencing future developments in the automotive industry.
Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print of the 1931 Cord L29 Cabriolet in our dElegance 2015 online gallery.
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