Graham-Paige Roadster ‘Sharknose’ 1939

The 1939 Graham-Paige ‘Sharknose’ roadster was a development of the Graham Model 97 saloon introduced in 1938. Its unusual appearance, projecting bonnet and headlamp fairings integrated into the wings earned it the nickname ‘Sharknose’. With this car, the company's slogan became ‘Spirit of Motion’. It was fitted with an economical 3.5-litre engine.

American designers and the press praised its construction and styling. The Graham-Paige Roadster also won the prestigious Concours d’Elegance in Paris, France. Further awards included the Prix d’Avant-Garde in Lyon, the Prix d’Elegance in Bordeaux and the Grand Prix d’Honneur in Deauville, France. Nevertheless, the company did not achieve commercial success with the car.