This 1929 Graham-Paige “Sound Train” (chassis 506712513073) is one of around 15 created by the H.O. McGee Mfg. Co. from Model 837 long wheelbase limousines. Designed to resemble road-going steam locomotives at the request of Paramount Pictures and associated theaters, Sound Trains were used to promote new movies and up-and-coming stars–incredibly, the seller believes up to four others still exist. The car is drivable thanks to a transplanted Studebaker L-head six, but everything else here is going to need a lot of work. Find it here on eBay in Hillsboro, Oregon with an unmet opening bid. Special thanks to BaT reader Kyle K. for this submission.

Inspired by McGee’s Trackless Train from 1924, the Sound Train was introduced right around the time that “talking pictures” became popular early in the same decade. Fitted with a cowcatcher, the hood has been reshaped to resemble a steam boiler and while originally fitted with lots of railroad-inspired details, according to the ad all of the headlights, taillights, and sidelights, along with the bell and whistle, have been replaced with “items from different sources.”

The rear of the car features an observation platform that features an overhanging roof, ornate railings and room for another bench seat, although it appears to be missing. While sheet metal looks decent, the car is quite dirty making it hard to truly gauge its condition.

Said to measure ~20 feet in length, this is a very large vehicle–a 2019 Suburban by comparison measures in at a paltry 18.7 feet.

Full-frame interior photos aren’t provided, but while it was originally trimmed to resemble a luxurious parlor car, nearly everything seems to be missing now. Further, that ad notes that “a lot” of body-supporting wood needs to be replaced. Note the rigged gas can and battery.

While the rear compartment would have been fit for a pope when new, this one will require a great deal of work.

There aren’t any engine photos provided, but the Sound Train’s original engine and transmission have been replaced by what is thought to be a Studebaker L-head six backed by a 4-speed manual transmission. Though the car will run and drive, “neither the brakes nor the electrical system function other than starting the engine.”