The Pre-War Vintage Cars Made a Splash At the Concours

Some believe that the years prior to World War II turned out some of the most notable cars ever made. For the 44th Cincinnati Concours d'Elegance those cars from 1925 through 1942 were featured in the Pre-War Vintage Class. Among those on display was this 1942 Studebaker President DeluxStyle Land Cruiser. Only 367 of this model were made. It has a 250 cubic inch straight eight cylinder engine that puts out 117 horse power.

This is a 1933 Hudson Terraplane Sedan. When the Terraplane was introduced in 1932 it was called the Essex Terraplane, harking back to the Essex Automobile Company that ceased production in 1922. Famed aviatrix Amelia Earhart introduced the Terraplane in July, 1932. 1933 was the only year the Terraplane had an eight cylinder engine and only 15 of those are known to still exist.

This 1936 Buick 66 Century Convertible is one of only 711 produced in that year. Designed by Harley Earl the car was known as the "banker's hot rod" because it could hit 100 miles per hour. Powering the car was a 320 cubic inch over head valve straight eight cylinder engine that produced 120 horse power.

While the Model T was perhaps the most famous Ford model ever made, the Model A could well be the most important as it seemingly brought Ford up to date with the competition. This is a 1931 Model A Special Delivery Van. This is one of the rarest Model A body styles with only 900 every produced. Powered by a 201 cubic inch inline four cylinder engine it turns out 40 horse power.

A more common Model A is this 1931 Tudor. The Tudor was Ford's "entry level" model that was priced at only $550 dollars. The original owner and family kept this car for 77 years and it has never been restored. Like the Special Delivery Van the Tudor runs on a 201 cubic inch inline four cylinder engine it turns out 40 horse power.