In the early 20th century, the American automotive industry was in the midst of a profound transformation. One of the notable players during this era was the Marquette Motor Company, a subsidiary of General Motors, which introduced the 1930 Marquette Model 35 Phaeton—a car that exemplified the elegance and innovation of its time.

The name Marquette was first used for an automobile when the Berwick Auto Car Company of Grand Rapids, Michigan, used it as a model designation for their electric car in 1904.  Five years later, General Motors (“GM”) Co-Founder William Durant bought the Rainier Motor Car Company.  Rainier was in severe financial trouble at the moment of the purchase. Following that, a new company, the Marquette Motor Company, was established in Saginaw, Michigan, to continue production of the luxurious ‘Rainier’ motor car until 1911. Due to poor sales, General Motors subsequently ceased Ranier/Marquette production by 1912.

Fast forward to 1929, GM dusted off the Marquette brand name as one of four “Companion Marques” (LaSalle, Marquette, Viking, and Pontiac) to bridge the price gap between its established brands.  GM priced its new Marquette offerings between the affordable Chevrolet and more upscale Buick brands. Positioned as a mid-range offering, the Marquette aimed to provide buyers with a combination of performance, style, and quality, all at a reasonable price.

The brand’s flagship model, the Marquette Model 35 Phaeton, debuted in 1930, and it was a shining example of the era’s automotive design trends. This car was an immediate head-turner with its elegant lines, graceful curves, and attention to detail. The Phaeton body style, characterized by its open-air design, was particularly popular during the early 20th century, appealing to those who wanted to experience the joy of open-top motoring.

Under the hood, the 1930 Marquette Model 35 Phaeton boasted a 3.5-liter inline-six engine, which produced a respectable 67 horsepower. This engine was known for its reliability and smooth operation, contributing to its overall appeal. The Model 35 came equipped with a three-speed manual transmission, offering a decent balance between power and fuel efficiency.

Inside the Phaeton, passengers were treated to a spacious and luxurious interior. Plush upholstery, woodgrain accents, and attention to detail created an inviting cabin that showcased Marquette’s commitment to quality. The car’s folding soft top allowed for an open-air driving experience when desired, making it a versatile choice for different weather conditions.

In terms of features, the Model 35 was well-equipped for its time. It featured a full set of gauges, including a speedometer, fuel gauge, and an oil pressure gauge—an advanced feature for the era. The car’s suspension was set up for a smooth and comfortable ride, a hallmark of Marquette’s commitment to providing a refined driving experience.

Despite its initial success and acclaim, the Marquette brand faced challenges during the Great Depression. The economic downturn led to decreased demand for automobiles, and General Motors eventually decided to discontinue the Marquette brand in 1930, just one year after its introduction.

The 1930 Marquette Model 35 Phaeton may have had a relatively short-lived existence, but it left an enduring legacy in the world of classic automobiles. Its elegant design, quality craftsmanship, and commitment to providing a well-rounded driving experience continue to be appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts to this day. As a symbol of its time, the Marquette Model 35 Phaeton reminds enthusiasts of the innovation and style that defined the automotive industry during the early 20th century.

The seller of this extremely rare 1930 Marquette Model 35 Phaeton This car was assembled in Cape Town, South Africa, for the South American market.  An employee purchased the car new and later moved it to the United States in the mid-1950s, where it was modified to left-hand drive.

The seller notes are only five Phaetons known to exist in the U.S.  Of those five, only two are fully restored to Concours Level, both of which are currently owned by the seller.  In all, only 889 Phaetons were manufactured. This is an incredibly rare opportunity to purchase a rare, top-of-the-line, General Motors Companion Marque in Concours-level condition.