A meticulously restored 1936 Cord 810 Phaeton, a design icon and award-winning classic, is expected to fetch up to $250,000.
One of the most innovative and iconic cars of the Classic Era, a 1936 Cord 810 Phaeton, will take center stage at Mecum's Kissimmee 2025 auction on January 18th. With a no-expense-spared restoration and a host of prestigious accolades, this exceptional automobile is estimated to sell for $200,000 to $250,000.
Designed by Gordon Buehrig, the Cord 810 debuted to acclaim at the 1935 New York Auto Show, thanks to its groundbreaking engineering and strikingly modern design. Known as the "Baby Duesenberg," the 810 features a front-wheel-drive system, powered by a Lycoming 288/125 HP L-Head V-8 engine, paired with a 4-speed electronically shifted pre-selector transmission. This forward-thinking drivetrain made it the last American front-wheel-drive car until the 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado.
The Cord 810’s timeless aesthetics include a horizontally-louvered “coffin” hood, retractable headlamps, aerodynamic pontoon-style fenders, and an elegant dashboard with comprehensive instrumentation. These features have solidified its status as one of the most celebrated automotive designs in history.
This particular 1936 Cord 810 Phaeton is a stunning example, finished in Cigarette Cream with a black convertible top and a red leather interior. The restoration was completed by renowned experts Everett Kuhn and Rick Hulett, ensuring authenticity and craftsmanship. Certified by the Auburn Cord Duesenberg (ACD) Club as a Category 1 C-210 vehicle, it retains its original engine and drivetrain.
This Phaeton’s accolades include an AACA National Senior First Prize, a CCCA Senior Premier award, and selection as the poster car for events like the Stan Hywet car show and the Glenmoor Gathering of Significant Automobiles. It has also participated in the AACA-VMCCA Kentucky Glidden Tour, further establishing its credentials as a highly regarded collector’s car.
With only 3,000 Cord 810/812 models ever produced, surviving examples are rare and highly coveted. This Phaeton comes with extensive documentation, including manuals, restoration photos, and receipts, offering collectors a chance to own a piece of automotive history.
The 1936 Cord 810 Phaeton remains a timeless masterpiece, embodying innovation, elegance, and engineering excellence—a true gem for enthusiasts at Kissimmee 2025.
