Vehicle Description
In 1960, the Auburn Automobile Company got its second lease on life
when its original savior, Dallas Winslow, passed the torch on to
fellow marque champion, Mr. Glenn Pray. After acquiring the assets,
Pray moved the operation to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, where he
maintained a stash of original parts, tooling, and documents. He
quickly earned a well-deserved reputation as the go-to Guru of all
things Auburn/Cord/Duesenberg, and marque enthusiasts flocked to
his warehouse for parts and advice. But Glenn Pray had dreams for
his version of the Auburn Automobile Company beyond just being a
restorer and parts supplier. He envisioned a full-scale revival of
the marque, complete with coachbuilt motorcars continuing the
Auburn tradition, blending classic styling with modern American V8
drivetrains and chassis components. In 1967, Glenn Pray's dream
became a reality when production of the "Second Generation" Auburn
866 commenced. The 866 featured a high-quality fiberglass body,
built using molds taken from a genuine boattail speedster, and
detailed with trim parts taken directly from Auburn's parts stores.
The chassis and drivetrain were sourced from Ford, and the V8
engine capacity varied depending on availability and customer
wishes. The 866 was meticulously crafted to a high standard, and
the price reflected it. Glenn Pray completed just 138 cars between
1967 and 1981, and these so-called second-generation examples are
now classics in their own right, enjoying full recognition by
enthusiasts, including the prestigious Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Club.
The 19th chassis produced, this desirable early production 1970 866
Speedster was sold new to Mr. Bob Butterfield, a close friend, and
fervent supporter of Glenn Pray. Finished in its striking original
combination of red over a maroon interior, it is very well-equipped
with chrome disc wheels, whitewall tires, air conditioning, power
steering, and more. What makes Chassis 19 truly special is its
powertrain. While most 866s were relatively sedate in their
specification, this car features a 360 horsepower, 429 cubic-inch
big-block Ford V8 backed by a four-speed manual gearbox - a very
rare combination, as most 866s left the works with automatic or
3-speed manual transmissions. The muscular drivetrain imparts
startling performance, while the authentic styling wonderfully
mirrors the original 851 supercharged boattail speedster's spirit.
Chassis number 19 presents in excellent unrestored condition today,
with a light, careworn patina from years of enjoyment. The red
paint is consistent overall, with some imperfections in the finish
noted on inspection. The body displays tight, consistent panel
gaps, which speak volumes to the standard of quality set by Glenn
Pray. The original dark red upholstery also shows a light patina
with some light creasing in the leather seating surfaces. Door
panels, carpets, and the canvas top are in good original order,
showing some fading that is consistent with age. Stewart-Warner
instruments grace the engine-turned alloy fascia, for a distinctly
1930's feel. During Mr. Butterfield's long-term ownership, the 866
Speedster was a mainstay of Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club events. It
remains a delightful example that is attractive and a joy to drive
thanks to the powerful Ford V8. Brimming with character, this rare
Glenn Pray Auburn 866 is ideal for continued enjoyment in club
gatherings or casual touring events. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6800-1970-auburn-866-speedster/
