Today’s car is a 1939 Graham 4 door sedan. The original design was called the Spirit of Motion, but is more commonly known by its nickname Sharknose. It was designed by Amos Northup, his last creation before his death in 1937. I saw this car at Annual Horseless Carriage Show in Arcadia, CA. The car is finished in metallic green with a gray pinstripe mohair interior. It is powered by a 90 hp, 218 cu in L-head straight-six engine, with a single Marvel downdraft carburetor, mated to a 3-speed manual transmission with 4.27:1 rear axle. Slowing this beauty down are 11″ hydraulic drum brakes in all 4-corners. The front suspension is a traditional I-beam axle with longitudinal leaf springs, tubular shocks and the not so common at the time an anti-roll bar, The rear suspension is a solid axle with longitudinal leaf springs and tubular shocks.
The total 0f 8,000 Sharknoses were produced from 1938 – 1940. The MSRP was $1,095.00. With its slanted front end with its uncharacteristic square headlamps this car catches a lot of attention. What a great car to take to car shows, Cars & Coffee events, or just take a drive with like minded friends. Thank you for riding along. Frank
