Rare 1930 Ruxton Model C Sedan by Budd
A very rare 1930 Ruxton Model C from The Nethercutt Collection arriving at and leaving the 2024 San Marino Motor Classic at Lacy Park, where it won Second in Class (CCCA - American Closed (Full Classics Only)) and the Best Paint and Finish Award. Built by New York-based New Eras Motors Company, the Ruxton was the second American front-wheel drive production car, introduced shortly after the Cord L-29. It is powered by a 269-ci L-head eight-cylinder engine producing 100 horsepower. This example, chassis no. 10C84, features sedan coachwork by Edward G. Budd Mfg. Co. and is equipped with Woodlite headlamps, silk corduroy interior by Schumacher, and a multi-colored paint scheme designed by Joseph Urban. It is one of 96 Ruxtons built, less than 20 of which survive. Fully restored by The Nethercutt Collection, it was displayed at the 2006 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where it won First in Class and the Classic Car Club of America Trophy, and at the 2007 Las Vegas Concours d’Elegance, where it won Best of Show. It was also featured on an episode of Jay Leno’s Garage in June 2025.
Those who don't recognize this car may easily assume it's a custom hot rod. After all, it sits unusually low, its headlamps are uniquely shaped, and its paint job looks just like what you'd expect from a customization shop. But that only goes to show just how ahead of its time the Ruxton was. While front-wheel drive may not be what most enthusiasts today consider ideal, it was an innovative feature that helped not only simplify the drivetrain but also allow the car to sit much lower. Ruxton further emphasized that look with a low windshield and a flashy multi-color paint job, then topped it all off with Woodlite headlamps (which most Ruxtons were equipped with). It's unfortunate that so few examples were built and that so few of those still survive. But that only makes getting to see one even more of an incredible experience!
Do you like the bespoke paint job on this rare Ruxton? Leave a comment on YouTube and let me know!