Highlights

The vendor estimates fewer than 20 roadworthy examples survive worldwide
Extensive cosmetic and mechanical refurbishment recently undertaken
Carefully stored in a heated garage for nearly a decade prior to refurbishment
Original convertible soft top preserved

The Appeal

The SAMCO Cord Royale is a handbuilt neoclassical American automobile, produced in Mannford, Oklahoma between 1968 and 1970. Inspired by the legendary Cord 812 Phaeton of the 1930s, the Royale was the flagship variant, distinguished from the shorter-wheelbase Warrior by its longer proportions and the formidable Chrysler 440 Magnum V8. With approximately 400 units built in total and the vendor estimating fewer than 20 roadworthy examples surviving worldwide, these are genuinely rare machines.

This particular Royale was imported into Romania in 2016 and carefully stored in a heated garage for nearly a decade before being acquired in 2025 by Mircea's Classics, a marque-sympathetic restoration specialist. The vendor notes it has since undergone a comprehensive cosmetic and mechanical refurbishment encompassing chassis, brakes, exhaust, bodywork and drivetrain. Inside, the cabin retains much of its original character, while practical upgrades include additional sound insulation and a RetroSound head unit. A few minor paintwork details and the soft top offer the next owner the opportunity to bring the car to their own exacting standards.

Key Information

Mileage: 47,055 miles indicated
Country of registration: Romania
Technical inspection status: exempt
Technical specs: 7.2-litre Chrysler 440 Magnum V8 petrol, three-speed automatic
Paperwork: no specific documentation referenced by the vendor
1-58 Alexandru Mircea.jpg 10.56 MB

The Detail

Chassis extensively refurbished
Braking system rebuilt
The vendor states the Chrysler 440 Magnum V8 was comprehensively serviced and starts and runs very well
Automatic transmission reportedly operates correctly with smooth gear changes
Exhaust system rebuilt in stainless steel
Bodywork refurbished and repainted in Indigo Blue
New wheels with wide-profile tyres fitted
Additional cabin sound insulation installed
RetroSound head unit fitted
Exterior presents well overall, though a few minor paintwork imperfections remain
Original convertible soft top noted to be in fair, usable condition
Interior largely original and in reported to be in good condition for the vehicle's age
Upholstery, dashboard, trim and interior fittings largely preserved
1-91 Alexandru Mircea.jpg 18.16 MB

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.