Engine No. FD2260

The Cord L-29, introduced in 1929, was a groundbreaking front-wheel-drive car, drawing inspiration from front-wheel-drive race cars' success at the Indianapolis 500. Designed by engineers Harry Miller and Cornelius Van Ranst, and with input from race driver Leon Duray, it featured a low-slung X-frame chassis developed by Herb Snow, giving the car a sleek, 58-inch-high profile—much lower than most rear-wheel-drive competitors.

Despite its advanced design, including a uniquely packaged engine, transmission, differential, and front brakes, the L-29's success, like so many impressive pre-war automobiles, was undermined by the 1929 stock market crash. Nevertheless, the L-29 was hailed for its innovation and looks creating a long-lasting appeal that carried through to the introduction of the Cord 810/812 in the early 1930s.

The Cord L-29 Convertible Sedan offered here is a well-preserved older restoration with a timeless black leather interior, black cloth top, and elegant cream-colored fenders. With commanding road presence, large Twilite headlamps, Pilot-Ray driving lights, brightwork, and distinctive beltline styling inspired by Hibbard & Darrin, this L-29 is a particularly eye-catching example—especially in its black and white livery. Dual side-mount spares, chrome wire wheels, wide whitewalls, cowl lights, and side-mount spare mirrors add further distinction.

This 1929 Cord L-29 Convertible Phaeton Sedan was acquired by the collection in 2006. Produced in limited numbers, the Cord L-29 was one of America's first full-production front-wheel-drive cars, with just 1,819 units built in 1929. In the words of E.L. Cord, "The Cord is a specialty car, different from others." It is very much the same today.