1934 Graham Model 68 Standard Six Sedan

In June of 1927, the Graham brothers, Joseph, Robert, and Ray, purchased the Paige-Detroit Motor Car Company. The four models offered by Paige prior to the acquisition continued until the close of the year. At this time, the new Graham-Paige automobiles were introduced consisting of both six- and eight-cylinder models. During their first full year as a company, more than 73,000 cars were sold. The name 'Paige' was finally dropped after 1930, though the company name was still the Graham-Paige Motor Corporation.

During the difficult era of the Great Depression, sales were slow. To help stimulate interest, a centrifugal supercharger was offered on the eight-cylinder models in 1934.

This 1934 Graham Model 68 Standard Six Sedan was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars sale at Hershey, PA presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $4,000 - $6,000 and offered without reserve. The estimates proved accurate and the lot was sold for $5,500 including the buyer's premium.

It is powered by a 223.9 cubic-inch six-cylinder L-head engine that produces 85 horsepower. There are a three-speed manual transmission and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. The 116-inch wheelbase is held in place by a solid front axle and live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.

It is a weathered vehicle that has dings, dents, scratches, rust, and even a few holes. The fabric is deteriorating, the trim is in poor condition, the Graham emblem is missing, and the front bumper has been removed. The odometer displays 53,701 miles and it was last inspected in 1949 in Pennsylvania.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2007