1929 Cord L-29 Cabriolet

The Cord L-29 Cabriolet 1929 was a pioneering automobile that marked a significant step forward in the evolution of automotive design and engineering. It was the first front-wheel drive car with a monocoque chassis, a combination of features that gave it exceptional handling, stability, and agility for its time.

At the heart of the Cord L-29 Cabriolet 1929 was a 301 cubic inch inline-eight engine that produced 125 horsepower, a formidable output for its day. The engine featured overhead valves, hydraulic lifters, and a fully-enclosed timing chain, all cutting-edge features that enhanced its durability and reliability. The engine was mounted ahead of the front axle, allowing for a longer wheelbase and better weight distribution, and was mated to a three-speed manual transmission.

The body of the Cord L-29 Cabriolet 1929 was a masterpiece of styling and engineering, with graceful lines and curves that flowed smoothly from front to rear. It was designed by Alan Leamy, who also created the iconic Auburn Boat Tail Speedster, and featured a long hood, short deck, and rounded fenders. The Cabriolet model sported a convertible top that could be raised or lowered with ease, and had leather upholstery and a wood dashboard with elegant gauges and controls.

The Cord L-29 Cabriolet 1929 also boasted a number of technical innovations that set it apart from its contemporaries. Its front-wheel drive system, for instance, allowed for a lower center of gravity and reduced weight, giving it superior handling and braking characteristics. Its monocoque chassis, made of steel and aluminum, was light yet rigid, providing excellent torsional rigidity and resistance to flexing. And its adjustable suspension, with coil springs in front and leaf springs in the rear, provided a smooth ride over any terrain.

The Cord L-29 Cabriolet 1929 was an expensive automobile, with a price tag of $3,000 at its introduction, which limited its appeal to a relatively small niche of wealthy buyers. Nonetheless, it remains a classic example of automotive art and engineering, embodying the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and the innovative spirit of its maker, E.L. Cord. Today, it is a prized possession of collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its beauty, history, and technical excellence.