Image of 1940 Graham Hollywood Custom 109, sourced from flacarshows.com , Image Link.

1940 Graham Hollywood Custom 109: A Fusion of Art and Engineering

The 1940 Graham Hollywood Custom 109 is not just a car; it's a rolling sculpture that encapsulates the optimism and design prowess of pre-war America. Born from the innovative minds at Graham-Paige Motors Corporation, this vehicle emerged during an era of economic recovery and impending global conflict. Its creation was a bold statement of resilience and ingenuity, with a design that would leave an indelible mark on automotive history. The Hollywood Custom 109 is particularly notable for its use of the groundbreaking "Spirit of Motion" design, which earned it the nickname "Sharknose" due to its distinctive front-end styling.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the Graham Hollywood Custom 109 is a feast for the eyes, boasting sleek lines that seem to cut through the air even at a standstill. Its forward-thrusting grille and fenders exude a sense of motion that was unmatched at the time. Inside, drivers were treated to an interior that balanced luxury with simplicity, featuring high-quality fabrics and an elegant dashboard layout. Technologically, it was ahead of its time with features such as a supercharged engine option—a rarity for cars in this era. While color options were somewhat limited by today's standards, the deep blues and rich maroons were among the most sought after, enhancing the car's already striking presence. The coupe body style was particularly popular, offering a blend of sportiness and elegance.

Historical Significance

The Graham Hollywood Custom 109's design was revolutionary, breaking away from traditional automotive styling cues and setting new trends in aerodynamics and aesthetics. It was one of the first production cars to incorporate fender skirts and flush-mounted headlights—elements that would later become staples in car design. This vehicle didn't just turn heads; it influenced the direction of automotive engineering for decades to come.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stunning exterior, the Graham Hollywood Custom 109 was no slouch in performance either. With a top speed that could reach up to 90 mph—a commendable figure for its time—and an acceleration from 0-60 mph that impressed its contemporaries, this car offered more than just good looks. On the road, it handled with poise and grace, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining composure in windy conditions. The driving experience was visceral; from the throaty hum of its engine to the tactile feedback through its steering wheel, it connected drivers to the road in a way few modern vehicles can replicate.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the Graham Hollywood Custom 109 typically reveled in its dual role as both a reliable daily driver and an attention-grabbing show car. Maintenance was straightforward for mechanically inclined individuals of the era, though parts scarcity today can pose challenges. Nevertheless, those who are fortunate enough to own one often find themselves custodians of a piece of automotive art as much as they are car enthusiasts.

Fun Facts

The Graham Hollywood Custom 109 has its share of quirky trivia. For instance, despite its innovative design, sales were modest due to timing and economic factors—making surviving examples quite rare today. There were rumors of celebrity ownerships adding to its mystique. While it didn't set any official speed records, it certainly won admiration for its avant-garde styling and spirited performance.

Collector's Information

As for collectors today, finding a 1940 Graham Hollywood Custom 109 can be akin to unearthing treasure. Production numbers were limited—with estimates suggesting only around 1,859 units were made—making each find significant. In terms of value range, pristine examples can fetch anywhere from $60,000 to well over $100,000 at auction depending on provenance and condition. The market has seen appreciation over time as enthusiasts seek out these rare gems for their collections.

Conclusion

The 1940 Graham Hollywood Custom 109 stands as a testament to an era where automotive design dared to defy convention. It is a vehicle that not only represented technological progress but also became an icon of style that continues to influence car enthusiasts around the world. Owning one is more than just possessing a classic car; it's about preserving a piece of history that still turns heads and stirs souls decades after it first hit the streets.

1940 Graham HOLLYWOOD CUSTOM 109 Accessory Floor Mat - 12"X17"-AC 12Accessory Floor Mat - made of high quality black rubber with molded original emblem. Also designed to be sewn into new carpets. 12"X17", Each

1940 Graham HOLLYWOOD CUSTOM 109 Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 17Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-5/8" wide X 4-1/4" long, with 1-3/4" long inner slot. Fits Front & Rear. Pair

1940 Graham HOLLYWOOD CUSTOM 109 Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 3-5/8" long-CB 25Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 3-5/8" long. Pair

1940 Graham HOLLYWOOD CUSTOM 109 Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2" wide X 3-5/8" long. Pair-CB 46Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2" wide X 3-5/8" long. Pair

1940 Graham HOLLYWOOD CUSTOM 109 Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates-FS 22Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates. Apply with contact cement. 14-3/4" long X 7-3/4" wide at top and 8-1/2" wide at bottom. Pair

1940 Graham HOLLYWOOD CUSTOM 109 Tail-light Base Pads. 4-3/4" O.D. Pair-MP 795Tail-light Base Pads. 4-3/4" O.D. Pair

1940 Graham HOLLYWOOD CUSTOM 109 Tail-light Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 15-1/4" long. Pair R&L-MP 795-BTail-light Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 15-1/4" long. Pair R&L

1940 Graham HOLLYWOOD CUSTOM 109 License Light Pad. 5" wide X 12-1/4" long. Each-MP 797-CLicense Light Pad. 5" wide X 12-1/4" long. Each

1940 Graham HOLLYWOOD CUSTOM 109 Trunk Handle Pad. 2-1/8" wide X 5-5/8" long. Each-MP 900Trunk Handle Pad. 2-1/8" wide X 5-5/8" long. Each