The 1930 Jordan Model Z Speedway Ace Roadster

One of the last Jordan model cars ever built is also the only one of its kind known to exist is the Model Z Speedway Ace Roadster (which only 14 were made). Like many companies, automotive and otherwise, Jordan failed to make it out of the Great Depression, but not before making some cars of remarkable quality and uniquely American style.

The Cleveland, Ohio-based Jordan Automobile Company, was founded in 1916. During the 1920s, Jordan made its mark on automotive culture and advertising through a popular ad campaign for its Playboy roadster and Blueboy sedan; their tagline was, Somewhere West of Laramie. At one point Jordan had 85 dealers in the United States, and during its history more than 43,000 Jordan cars were built.

The Jordan Model Z Speedway Ace Roadster was introduced in 1930. It had a lowmounted body on a long 145-inch wheelbase frame. Its body was built by another Cleveland firm, the Facto Auto Body Company. It had a large 5.3-liter, straight-eight engine (mated to a fourspeed gearbox) that made 114 bhp at 3,300 rpm. Jordan sought to capture some of the interest in aircraft during this period by using toggle switches for various accessories and even incorporating an altimeter into its dashboard.

Jordan wasn’t completely dependent on gimmicks, however it used high-quality components and even included filters for its oil and fuel, an automatic windshield washer, thermostatically controlled radiator shutters, and other unique and advanced features. Its engine’s crankshaft ran smoothly on five main bearings, and the car stopped with the aid of fully hydraulic brakes.

Unfortunately, the Ace Roadster's price and market timing doomed it from the outset. Priced at over $5,000, it arrived just one year after the stock market crashed and eliminated the ability of many potential customers to afford such a car.

Found in 1998, this lone surviving Jordan Model Z Speedway Ace Roadster was restored, and received a class award at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

Jordan Model Z

Jordan Model Z Specifications

Chassis : Double-dropped, pressed-steel, seven crossmembers
Engine : Straight eight, aluminum pistons, 422 ci/6.9 liters
Ignition : Dual points and coils
Carburetor : Twin choke
Top Speed : 100+ mph/160+ kmh