1929→1933 Ruxton Model C

Based off the 1929 showcar, the Ruxton was one of America’s prewar front-wheel-drive cars and directly rivaled the Cord L29.

The model was produced by Archie M. Andrews and designed by William J. Muller who worked together under the name New Era Motors, Inc. They convinced Moon to manufacture the cars while Kissel supplied the front-wheel-drive transaxle.

Compared to the initial 1929 prototype, the Model C used a Continental 18S straight eight engine. It was designed to be lower, lighter and faster than the Cord L29.

Lack of distribution and the Wall Street Crash of 1929 meant that as little as 100 Ruxtons were produced over the company’s lifetime.

In Detail

type	Series Production Car
production years	1929 – 1933
built at	USA
engine	Continental 18S Inline-8
displacement	4408 cc / 269 in³
power	74.6 kw / 100 bhp
specific output	22.69 bhp per litre
driven wheels	FWD
front brakes	Drums
rear brakes	Drums
f suspension	de Dion-Type Axle
r suspension	Solid Axle w/Leaf Springs
wheelbase	3302.0 mm / 130 in
transmission	3-Speed Manual

Auction Sales History

1931 Ruxton Model C Roadster 11007 – sold for $363,000 Featured in a Retrospective article by John Lamm in the February 1974 issue of Motor Trend, the car was ultimately restored in 1990. Stripped down to bare metal, the exacting restoration was conducted by Clyde Wade of the Harrah’s Collection, who simultaneously worked on another Ruxton – a rare occurrence indeed. Finished in a very attractive two-tone blue with a silver pinstripe, the car was subsequently shown at Silverado in Napa Valley, whe

re it received First Place honors before making a successful appearance at Pebble Beach.

Now showing approximately 75 miles since its restoration, the beautiful and ultra-rare Ruxton remains in superb, show-quality condition throughout and has remained in climate-controlled storage, under professional care for the last several years.

Auction Source: 2008 Meadow Brook Concours