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.
[Illustration: 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.]
[Illustration: 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.]
[Illustration: 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.]
[Illustration: 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.]
[Illustration: 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.]