Rediscovering the Legendary Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster

The Eastern Division AACA (Antique Automobile Club of America) National Fall Meet in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a renowned automotive event that has been captivating enthusiasts for nearly 70 years. This year, RM Sotheby's, the official auction house of the event, will present a remarkable lineup of vehicles, including a true gem from the prewar era – the 1935 Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster.

Unearthing a Piece of Automotive History

A Marque of Distinction

The Auburn Automobile Company, alongside the iconic Cord and Duesenberg brands, is one of the most celebrated American marques of the prewar era. Under the leadership of Errett Cord, these three companies represented the pinnacle of automotive design and engineering during the 1920s and 1930s. Among Cord's most sporting models was the Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster, a car that has endured as a collector's favorite for decades.

Embodying the Spirit of the Age

Introduced just as the Great Depression was taking hold, the Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster was a testament to the ambition and innovation of the era. Designed by the legendary automotive designer Gordon Buehrig, the Speedster's rakish style and impressive performance made it an instant hit. With its low, V-shaped windscreen and tapered "boattail" design, the Speedster looked fast even when standing still, capturing the essence of the era's automotive aspirations.

Unparalleled Performance

Beneath the curvaceous bodywork of the Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster lay a powerhouse of engineering. Its 4.5-liter, straight-eight engine produced a remarkable 150 horsepower, allowing one example to achieve a top speed of over 100 mph, uninterrupted, for an impressive 12 hours – a feat that made it the first American production car to accomplish such a remarkable achievement.

Certified Originality

The 1935 Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster being offered at the RM Sotheby's Hershey auction is a true gem, with a known ownership history and certified originality. Acquired by the current consignor in 2021, this stunning example features a black exterior and a beautifully maintained red-upholstered interior, accentuating the enduring appeal of this classic American automobile.

A Rare Opportunity

With only around 150 Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedsters produced between 1935 and 1936, the opportunity to acquire such a well-preserved and historically significant example is truly remarkable. As one of the most celebrated American marques of the prewar era, the Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster stands as a testament to the ambition and innovation that defined the golden age of automotive design. This exceptional vehicle is estimated to fetch as much as $850,000 at the upcoming RM Sotheby's Hershey auction, making it a must-see for any serious collector or enthusiast.