Cord 810/812

vs

Marmon Sixteen

USA vs USA — 1929 vs 1931

Cord 810/812 (1929)
Marmon Sixteen (1931)
Specifications
810/812 812 SuperchargedSixteen
Horsepower190 hp200 hp
Torque280 lb-ft500 lb-ft
Engine Size4,729 cc8,064 cc
0-60 mph13.0 sec20.0 sec
Top Speed110 mph100 mph
Weight3,902 lbs5,600 lbs
Wheelbase3,175 mm3,835 mm
Length4,953 mm5,791 mm
Units Produced2,320390
Original MSRP$2,545$5,200
Value (Excellent)$500,000$650,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity8/1010/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1929 Cord 810/812 812 Supercharged makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1931 Marmon Sixteen counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1929 Cord 810/812 812 Supercharged for outright capability, or the 1931 Marmon Sixteen for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

In the world of Luxury cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1929 Cord 810/812 812 Supercharged versus the 1931 Marmon Sixteen. Both hail from Pre-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1929 Cord 810/812 812 Supercharged producing 190 hp and the 1931 Marmon Sixteen delivering 200 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Cord 810/812 uses a V8 Lycoming Supercharged displacing 4,729 cc, while the Marmon Sixteen relies on a V16 OHV with 8,064 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1929 Cord 810/812 812 Supercharged edges ahead at 13.0 seconds versus 20.0 seconds. The Cord 810/812 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1698 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 390 units built, the 1931 Marmon Sixteen is considerably scarcer than the Cord 810/812's 2,320 examples.