The 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged Cabriolet, often referred to by enthusiasts as the "Sportsman Convertible Coupe", stands among the most innovative and visually striking American automobiles of the pre-war era. Produced by the legendary Auburn Automobile Company under the visionary leadership of E. L. Cord, the Cord 810/812 series redefined automotive design and engineering with a host of groundbreaking features that remain iconic to this day.
Penned by renowned designer Gordon Buehrig, the Cord's design was revolutionary. Its sleek, coffin-nose front end eliminated the traditional upright grille, while the integration of hidden, manually retractable headlamps, one of the first applications of their kind, created an uninterrupted, aerodynamic profile. The unibody construction, flowing fenders, concealed door hinges, wraparound bumpers, and low-slung stance gave the Cord a distinctly European flair, far ahead of its time in both form and function.
Equally advanced beneath the surface, the Cord 810/812 featured front-wheel drive paired with a 4-speed electrically pre-selected manual transmission, allowing drivers to shift gears via a small selector on the steering column before engaging the clutch. This engineering innovation provided improved weight distribution and a remarkably smooth ride compared to its contemporaries.
The example offered here represents one of the rarest and most desirable body styles, equipped with the factory-style Schwitzer-Cummins centrifugal supercharger, boosting performance of the Lycoming V8 engine to 190 horsepower. This particular powerplant, bearing engine number FC2737, delivers the spirited performance that defined the supercharged Cord models and set them apart from their naturally aspirated counterparts.
Finished in elegant Cigarette Cream, complemented by a Black leather interior and matching black cloth convertible top, this Cord presents with timeless sophistication. It is said to have been built and restored by a Cord specialist in Brazil, utilizing original cars sourced from the United States, resulting in a striking and well-executed example of this rare configuration.
Additional features and highlights include:
4-speed electrically shifted pre-select transmission
Hidden manually operated headlamps
Philco AM radio (currently inoperative)
Engine-turned aluminum dashboard with full instrumentation
Rearview mirror with integrated map light
6.50-16 Lester Tire Co. wide whitewall tires
Full chrome wheel covers
This Cord comes from the esteemed Terrance Adderley Collection of Bloomfield, Michigan, where it resided since 2013 among a curated group of Cord automobiles and other special interest classics.
Upon arrival at the St. Louis Car Museum, the vehicle received comprehensive servicing to ensure reliable operation. Work performed includes:
Rebuilding of the transmission oil pump by the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Company
Replacement transmission gaskets set provided thru Olson's gaskets
New brake master cylinder, complete brake service, and fluid flush
Fresh engine and transmission fluids
Replacement spark plugs and plug wires
New fuel filter
Rebuilt Stromberg carburetor using a kit supplied by Daytona Parts
Installation of a completely new exhaust system from the manifolds rearward
Today, this 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged Cabriolet stands as a compelling opportunity to own one of the most distinctive and technologically advanced American classics ever produced. With its rare body style, supercharged performance, and unmistakable design pedigree, it remains a centerpiece-worthy automobile-equally suited for concours display, touring events, or inclusion in a distinguished collection of pre-war innovation.
