Last Updated on June 5, 2025 by Matt Staff
The 1930s were a turning point in car history. Even with the world deep in economic trouble, automakers kept pushing ahead, building cars that were not only faster and more reliable but also more beautiful than anything before. This was the decade when big engines, smooth shapes, and bold ideas came together.
From American giants like Duesenberg and Cadillac to European names like Bugatti, Alfa Romeo, and Bentley, the variety was incredible. These machines weren’t just built to move people, they were built to impress. Here are 20 of the best cars from the 1930s.
1. Duesenberg Model J
One of the most expensive and powerful American cars of its time. It had a long hood and a large chrome grille.
2. Cord L-29
It was the first American car sold with front-wheel drive. The car sat low with sweeping fenders and a long, narrow body.
3. Cadillac V-16
This was Cadillac’s most luxurious model with a massive 16-cylinder engine. It looked big and bold, with fine details and tall wheels.
4. Auburn 851 Speedster
A flashy performance car that was fast and affordable. Its boat-tail rear and long, pointed body made it stand out on the road.
5. Cord 810
Known for its futuristic features, like hidden headlights and front-wheel drive. It had a sleek, smooth body with a sloped nose and no front grille.
6. Packard Twelve
A quiet and powerful V12 luxury car built for comfort. This was the same type of car that carried President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
7. Chrysler Airflow
One of the first cars shaped to reduce wind resistance. Its rounded front and smooth lines made it look very different from other cars of the time.
8. Lincoln Model K
This was Lincoln’s top-end luxury car with V12 power. There are currently just 3 left in the world in running condition.
9. Buick Series 60
The Buick Series 60 was a fast car that mixed performance with a good price.
10. Hudson Terraplane
A popular, light car that gave strong performance for less money. It had a compact body with art deco trim and a clean, rounded look.
11. Rolls-Royce Phantom II
The Phantom II was one of the finest luxury cars of its time, combining smooth performance with ultra-quiet operation. It was built for long-distance comfort and favored by royalty and wealthy travelers alike.
12. Bentley 8 Litre
Bentley’s most powerful pre-war model, the 8 Litre, could reach over 100 mph despite its size.
13. SS Jaguar 100
One of the first cars to carry the Jaguar name, the SS100 was a lightweight roadster that delivered real sports car performance.
14. Aston Martin Ulster
Built for competition, the Ulster was a rugged and fast sports car that performed well in endurance races like Le Mans. Its reliability and racing success helped shape Aston Martin’s sporting identity.
15. Lagonda V12
Designed by W.O. Bentley after leaving Bentley Motors, this V12 luxury tourer had nearly 200 hp, which was very impressive for the time.
16. Bugatti Type 41 Royale
The Royale was built for kings, with a massive 12.7-liter engine and unmatched size and luxury.
17. Bugatti Type 57C
A supercharged grand tourer, the Type 57C delivered refined speed and smooth power. It combined the best of Bugatti’s engineering with elegance, making it popular among wealthy European buyers.
18. Peugeot 402
This mid-size car featured a sleek, aerodynamic shape and was ahead of its time with independent front suspension and hidden headlights.
19. BMW 328
Lightweight and fast, the 328 was one of the most advanced sports cars of its era.
20. Auto Union Type C
This Grand Prix race car was powered by a mid-mounted V16 engine producing over 500 horsepower. It pushed the limits of pre-war technology and helped lay the foundation for modern race car design.
Want to see some more vintage cars?
Take a look at 40 Vintage Cars From The Early 1940s, or check out 30 Cars From The 1980s That Are Timelessly Cool. Finally, if you want to see classic bikes and cars from the 1900s, check out 20 Vintage Photos Of Classic Motorcycles And Sidecars (1910s-1950s).
