This was the last year for Oakland and not many 1931 Oakland V8 2 Door Sedan Flathead V8’s (pre-dates Ford) in fully restored condition are around. The Engine is patented and has a unique exhaust manifold that goes up and under the intake manifold and then down through the block on the driver side. This car is impeccably restored and painted in its factory correct orange/burgundy for a sporty look with a spotless interior. This model also featured an all chrome grill and Eagle radiator mascot, all of the interior instruments are original and fully functional.

The 1931 Oakland V8 2 Door Sedan is a testament to early automotive innovation and the enduring legacy of the Oakland Motor Car Company. Its powerful V8 engine, elegant design, and robust construction made it a standout vehicle of its time. The V8 2 Door Sedan remains a cherished and celebrated car among classic car enthusiasts and collectors, ensuring its place as one of the most iconic and revered models in the history of early American automobiles.

Taken at my first visit to the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

Overview

• Production Year: 1931
• Manufacturer: Oakland Motor Car Company (General Motors)
• Model: V8 2 Door Sedan
• Body Style: 2-Door Sedan

Design and Specifications

• Engine:
  • The 1931 Oakland V8 is powered by a 5.1-liter (317 cubic inches) V8 engine.
  • It produces approximately 85 horsepower, which was a competitive figure for the era.
• Transmission:
  • The car is equipped with a 3-speed manual transmission.
  • The gearbox is designed to provide smooth and reliable shifting, suitable for both city and highway driving.
• Chassis:
  • The chassis is constructed from sturdy steel, offering durability and a solid foundation for the vehicle.
  • The wheelbase measures around 117 inches (2,972 mm), providing stability and a comfortable ride.
• Suspension:
  • The front suspension consists of a solid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • The rear suspension features a solid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • This setup ensures a balance between ride comfort and handling performance.
• Brakes:
  • The Oakland V8 is equipped with mechanical drum brakes on all four wheels.
  • These brakes provide adequate stopping power for the vehicle's speed and weight.

Performance

• Top Speed: The Oakland V8 2 Door Sedan could achieve top speeds of around 70-75 mph (113-121 km/h).
• Acceleration: The V8 engine provides strong acceleration, making the car capable of handling various driving conditions.
• Handling: The sturdy chassis and well-designed suspension offer good handling for the time, allowing for a comfortable and stable ride on both paved and unpaved roads.

Design Features

• Bodywork:
  • The body of the 2 Door Sedan is designed with both elegance and functionality in mind.
  • It features a streamlined profile with smooth lines and a stylish, classic design.
  • The body panels are made from high-quality steel, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
• Interior:
  • The interior is luxurious, featuring high-quality cloth or leather upholstery and wood trim.
  • The seats are designed for comfort, providing ample support for long journeys.
  • The dashboard includes essential gauges and controls, arranged in an elegant and functional layout.
• Styling:
  • The styling of the Oakland V8 2 Door Sedan is characterized by its classic lines and attention to detail.
  • The car often features chrome accents and intricate design elements, adding to its visual appeal.
  • The overall design exudes sophistication and durability, making it a standout vehicle of its time.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Historical Significance:
  • The 1931 Oakland V8 2 Door Sedan represents a pivotal moment in automotive history, showcasing the advancements in engineering and design of the early 20th century.
  • It highlights the Oakland Motor Car Company's commitment to quality and performance, solidifying its reputation in the automotive industry.
• Transition to Pontiac:
  • The 1931 model year marked the end of the Oakland brand, as GM decided to focus on the more popular Pontiac brand.
  • The Oakland V8 served as a foundation for the development of future Pontiac models, contributing to the brand's success. 

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival

You may purchase a print of the 1931 Oakland V8 2 Door Sedan in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.

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