1936 Cord 810 Cabriolet: A Testament to Automotive Innovation at DFW Car & Toy Museum

The 1936 Cord 810 Cabriolet, now on display at the DFW Car & Toy Museum, stands as a beacon of automotive innovation, embodying a pivotal era in car design and engineering. Designed by Gordon M. Buehrig of the Auburn Automobile Company, this vehicle broke new ground with its front-wheel V-8 engine and a steering column shift mechanism, setting it apart from its contemporaries. Its design was revolutionary, doing away with conventional elements like the standard grille in favor of seven elegant louvers and hidden door hinges, showcasing a sleek, aerodynamic profile that was ahead of its time.

Among its most notable features were the innovative headlight system, operable via a dashboard hand crank, and a disappearing convertible top that blended flawlessly into the car's body when not in use. These features not only highlighted the car's advanced engineering but also earned it a spot in the Museum of Modern Art's 1951 exhibit, where it was likened to the 'driving power of a fast fighter plane,' underscoring its significance in automotive history.

The specific Cord 810 Cabriolet at the DFW Car & Toy Museum is a rare gem, preserved with its original chassis stub frame and a correct replacement engine. Its black exterior and impeccable condition serve as a vivid reminder of the 1930s' automotive artistry. Ron Sturgeon, the museum owner, highlights the car's display as not just an exhibition of a vehicle but a celebration of a transformative moment in design that continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts and historians alike.

This story matters because it sheds light on how past innovations continue to influence the automotive industry today. The Cord 810 Cabriolet's groundbreaking design and engineering principles paved the way for future advancements, making it a crucial study for those interested in the evolution of automotive technology. Its presence in the museum offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the ingenuity of the past and its lasting impact on the present and future of car design.