8. Cord
Despite being involved with Duesenberg and Auburn, Errett Lobban Cord was a successful car salesman and businessman who had a dream of building cars under his own name. So, in 1929, he established a company called Cord, introducing his first model, the L-29.
The philosophy behind Cord cars was simple. Offer advanced technology, powerful engines and gorgeous designs. The L-29 had bodies produced by the finest coach building companies and one interesting feature: front-wheel drive. In those days, the FWD layout was unheard of, and Cord was the only manufacturer in the world with this drivetrain.
The most famous Cord was the fantastic 812. It featured Art Deco styling, front-wheel drive and a powerful V8 engine. Unfortunately, despite being a favorite ride of the Hollywood elite, Cord was forced to close its doors in 1937.