E.L. Cord, an avid motorsports enthusiast, recognized the potential of Miller's front-wheel-drive race cars. Cord acquired passenger car rights in 1926, and with meticulous development and testing by Van Ranst and Fred Duesenberg, the Cord L29 (along with the Ruxton) marked the first production American front-wheel-drive cars offered to the public in 1929.
The 1929 Cord L29 stands as an automotive marvel, born from the collaborative genius of Harry Miller and Cornelius Van Ranst with a groundbreaking mid-engine front-wheel-drive system. Engineered for performance, it features a Lycoming inline 8-cylinder powerplant, 3-speed transmission, inboard hydraulic brakes, and hydraulic shock absorbers.
Built in Auburn, Indiana, the L29 captivates with its low-slung styling and excellent handling. With an original cost ranging from $3,095 - $3,295 in 1929, approximately 4,400 units were sold. Today, only 300 L29s remain, with just 8 Broughams known to exist.
Sakhnoffsky's meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the body and interior, which resulted in sweeping grace. The exterior boasts a distinctive low beltline that is accentuated by a long hood, prominent front fenders, and oversized hubcaps. The interior, adorned with intricate details, features an external sun visor, padded headliner, chromed rear window, sill lights, and plush wooden accents.
Intended to bridge the price gap between the Auburn Eight and the mighty J, the L29 exemplifies Cord's vision for a distinctive, performance-oriented vehicle. The 298.6-cubic-inch Lycoming straight-eight, reconfigured from larger Auburn models, delivers power to the front wheels, that results in a signature mile-long hood and a Duesenberg-like radiator. The Cord L29 has timeless elegance, and remains a testament to automotive ingenuity that captures the imagination of enthusiasts with its pioneering design and enduring beauty.
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