The fascinating Cord L-29 is remembered as industrialist Errett Lobban Cord’s successful attempt to bring the advantages of front-wheel drive to the American public. Positioned between the Auburn brand and his mighty Model J Duesenberg, Cord’s L-29 made its own bold statement with its low, sleek profile and flat interior floors, as there was no need to accommodate a longitudinal driveshaft. Available in several open and closed factory body styles, some 5,000 L-29s were built between 1929 and 1931. Expanding on Harry Miller’s ingenious front-drive designs and utilizing an advanced suspension configuration, the L-29 also featured a new X-braced frame. Constant velocity joints and inboard front brakes were also industry firsts, and the L-29 was celebrated then as now for its radical proportions and innovative engineering.

This handsome pair of Cord L-29s, a Cabriolet and Phaeton Sedan, came together in their present ownership in 2011, and a plan was soon formed to configure them as a matched pair, sharing identical paint colors and patterns, interior appointments, and distinctive Woodlite headlamps. Both Cords have been certified by the ACD Club as Category 1 level cars and awarded trophies at various events.

The Cabriolet hailed from the collection of noted collector Richard P. Kughn before it was acquired by the respected Wisconsin collector Mark Johnson. In 2011, it was purchased by the consignor, who retained Bob Lorkowski’s L’Cars Automotive Specialties to complete a significant restoration. Following completion, it was successfully shown in CCCA Primary competition, earning Senior badge no. 3075. Its sporting proportions are accentuated by its dark color scheme, wide stance, and chrome wire wheels, and the undercarriage sparkles in its maroon accent color.

The Phaeton Sedan is accompanied by an extensive history file, which features several original Maryland registration cards, dating to 1935, and chronicling several owners throughout its first few decades. In 2004, the low-mileage L-29 was acquired by James Quinlan of Jensen Beach, Florida, who performed a show-quality restoration. It was exhibited at Amelia Island and Pebble Beach, earning class awards, and it has attained CCCA Senior Premier status, with badge no. 2856SP. Photographs on file document the Cord’s history and the depth of the work performed. In 2011, it was refinished by L’Cars to match the Cabriolet, and a treasure trove of technical correspondence accompanies the car.

Each of these remarkable L-29s is a monument to the genius of E.L. Cord and the innovative designs of his eponymous company. However, when taken together as siblings, the visual impact achieves something more, reinforcing their fabulous proportions, low hood lines and wondrous details. It is thought that only approximately 300 of the 5,000 L-29s built still exist today, and both the Cabriolet and Phaeton Sedan represent two of the most sought-after body styles. Together, they make quite a pair.