Classic Cars
What does set apart a true classic from a standard production car? Two things in principle: Brilliant and unusual design coupled with the most advanced engineering of the day. Almost inseparable from these attributes are two more basic factors: Superlative hand workmanship and limited production. Some classics may excel in body design coupled to a lesser standard of engineering or vice versa, but all the above qualities are invariably found in a true classic.
1928 Cunningham
James Cunningham & Sons manufactured finely made, luxury cars in Rochester, N.Y. between 1907 and 1936. This early example of the V-8 engine produced 100 bhp at 2400 rpm. The Cunningham sold for up to $9,000.00. In 1970 a close-coupled convertible like this one was offered for $38,750.00. Early Cunningham enthusiasts included Mary Pickford, Marshall Field, William Randolph Hearst and Harold Lloyd. This car was driven for half its trip from Wisconsin to the PIONEER AUTO MUSEUM.
1937 Cord
This 810 Westchester Sedan was manufactured by Auburn Automobile Company. Only 2,320 cars of the 810 and 812 model Cord were made. It featured front wheel drive, Lycoming V-8 engine, retractable headlights and wrap-around grill. A 1937 supercharged model 812 originally sold for $3,575.00. A supercharged Beverly Sedan is on display in another building.
1931 Pierce-Arrow Convertible Coupe
Headlights sweeping from the fenders in clean, flowing lines mark it as a Pierce-Arrow. Bore and stroke were 3½ × 5 inches with a piston displacement of 385 cubic inches developing 132 horsepower. Another unique feature was pairs of coils, points and condensers allowing the 8 cylinder engine to run on four cylinders should the ignition fail. Many other unique features of engineering and design mark the Pierce-Arrow as a true Classic.
1932 Auburn Boattail Speedster
This classic beauty manufactured by the Auburn Automobile Company between 1903-1937 was guaranteed to have been test driven at more than 100 mph. Auburn first began using the two-tone color scheme in 1925. This yellow and red beauty came with a straight eight Lycoming engine rated at 150 H.P. This car was a first place winner at the national Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg meet a few years ago.
1928 Packard Convertible Coupe
This Packard has a straight eight engine, side-mounted spares, disc wheels, and a rumble seat. Two other Packards of this classic era, both four door phaetons, are also on display in the museum in the Classic Building.