Harris Composites announces its entrance into the custom component car industry with the launch of its newest division, Coffin Nose Customs. This new company began manufacturing its Coffin Nose Speedster in late 2013 after purchasing molds from Speedster Classic Designs. Based on the iconic 1936 Cord 810, the Coffin Nose Speedster is designed from the ground up as a 21st century homage to Gordon Buehrig’s deco masterpiece.  How did this neo-retro version come about?

“I’ve been fascinated with deco-era cars ever since I saw a picture of a Duesenberg at age two, notes Lee Harris, owner and founder of Harris Composites. “Speedster Classics did a great job prototyping the Coffin Nose and I feel fortunate to be able to play a part in bringing this legendary design to a new generation of drivers.”

Based just outside Lexington, Virginia, Coffin Nose Customs and Harris Composites produce automobiles in a massive, century-old former textile factory. “We have been building and restoring historic planes, trains, automobiles, military vehicles, and even carousels here for years,” Harris adds. “So the Coffin Nose is a welcome addition to our lineup.  I’m always looking for interesting projects, so the chance to produce a modern reincarnation of one of my all-time favorite cars was an opportunity I couldn’t resist.”       

The Coffin Nose Speedster is built on its own custom designed 2 x 4” box-steel frame with four-wheel independent Heidts suspension. Features include: tilt-forward Coffin Nose hood, custom pop-up headlight mechanisms, custom convertible top, custom windshield frame, Wilwood brakes, suicide doors, spacious trunk, and single piece body with integrated fenders.  A removable hardtop is under development. Rolling units are available under $30,000 while turn-key models start around $100,000.