1937 Cord 812 Westchester V8 from North America

Summary:

To drive a Cord is true glory

Faults:

Carb got plugged with fuel filter diaphragm particles that disintegrated due to modern gas formula;

Right headlight cable got stuck in down position after getting wet and rusting from running thru deep puddle;

Car leaks like sieve in rain (so I try to avoid wet weather);

Car makes the occasional undiagnosable weird noises.

General Comments:

Absolutely gorgeous design that feels like driving a car 15-20 years newer.

Front wheel drive works well;

Mine shifts well;

I'm running Good Year All Weather whitewalls, not radials, because I want the original feel;

The car gets 16 mpg and cruises all day at 70 (2100 on tach in 4th gear) and runs cool.

Yes, a Cord can be reliable, but you have to do your homework.

More "firsts" in this one car than any other I can think of, plus eternally stylish art-deco design.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th November, 2006

30th Nov 2006, 06:18

What body style is this Cord, is it a convertible or closed body style? Just wondering due to the water leak. If it is a closed body style (& not a convertible top leak), there are companies that can find & repair the leaks.

30th Nov 2006, 14:42

This is the kind of car I love seeing a review on! Wasn't this car a first in having front wheel drive, as well as flip-up headlight covers that were recessed into the fenders?