1938 Graham-Paige Model 97 Supercharged Cabriolet by Saoutchik

1938 Graham-Paige Model 97 Supercharged Cabriolet by Saoutchik

The Graham Brothers — Joseph, Robert and Ray — introduced their new Graham-Paige at the January 1928 New York Auto Show with introductions from boxer Gene Tunney and Norte Dame football coach Knute Rockne. Ten years later, the “Spirit of Motion” was introduced with a new dramatic radiator design known as the Sharknose. Unfortunately, public reaction in the United States to the advanced design was not favorable, as it was thought to be too radical or too ugly — or perhaps even both. The Europeans were, however, a bit more fashion-forward, and the streamlined designs of Jacques Saoutchik that appeared on Bugatti, Delahaye and other marques were well accepted. Saoutchik created several coachbuilt Graham cabriolets. The car had rakish lines, and the absence of running boards with a fin molded into the rear deck added to the aerodynamic look. It also featured cantilevered doors that would swing out and over the rear fenders, a design feature that was licensed from James Young Ltd.

1938 Graham-Paige Model 97 Supercharged Cabriolet by Saoutchik