Vehicle Description
After having been saved from near-oblivion during the mid-1920s by
super automobile salesman E.L. Cord, Auburn was soon on the path to
profitability and remarkably strong growth. A key component of that
success was Auburn's new eight-cylinder model lines, with engines
supplied by Lycoming, one of Cord's fast-growing portfolio of
transportation-related companies. Featuring captivating styling and
thrilling color combinations to match their robust eight-cylinder
powerplants, the new Auburn models offered high-end presence and
uncommonly strong value at a startlingly low price point.
Talented automobile designer Alan Leamy's intuitive and masterful
styling prowess played a crucial role in Auburn's enviable success
and strong balance sheet at the onset of the Great Depression.
Hired by Cornelius Van Ranst at E.L. Cord's personal suggestion in
1928, Leamy was initially tasked with styling the Duesenberg Model
J and Cord Front Drive L-29. However, many Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg
aficionados consider the gorgeous 8-98 Auburn Speedster to be his
finest work.
Featuring distinctive ribbon-style bumpers, large-diameter
headlamps, finely detailed radiator grilles, and sweeping bodylines
clearly suggestive of speed and power, the Auburn Speedsters looked
fast and adventurous, with the disappearing top enhancing design
purity. The Speedster's signature design cue, the finely tapered
rear treatment, was clearly inspired by the sleek and fast
wood-hulled speedboats enjoyed and raced by the wealthiest and most
stylish personalities of the "Jazz Age." Available on Auburn's
eight- and twelve-cylinder chassis, Speedsters were essentially
hand-built at Auburn's headquarters, and it remains questionable
whether or not sales revenues matched the actual production costs.
Nonetheless, the Speedster fulfilled its purpose as a "halo"
vehicle endowing its appeal across the rest of Auburn's model range
and drawing traffic into Auburn dealer showrooms.
Our featured 1931 Auburn 8-98 Speedster is a beautifully presented
example, wearing an accurately crafted boattail Speedster body
constructed in steel atop a genuine 1931 Auburn chassis. It is
finished in an opulent two-tone livery of mint green with sweeping
hunter green accents-an eye-catching combination that complements
the car's dramatic lines. While the color scheme makes a bold first
impression, the real beauty lies in the finer details: a sharply
raked windscreen, dramatic bonnet louvers, and the unmistakable
boattail rear end that captures the essence of motion, even at
rest.
Additional period-correct features and accessories include twin
cowl lamps, chromed horns, dual tail lamps, and a pair of Pilot-Ray
driving lights. Replated chrome wire wheels, Firestone whitewall
tires, and dual side-mounted spares complete the ensemble,
emphasizing the Auburn's art deco elegance and American sporting
flair.
Inside, the cockpit is both purposeful and inviting. Deep green
leather upholstery extends across the seats, door panels, and
color-matched floor mats, lending a cohesive and sporting ambiance
with just the right amount of subtle patina. The large steering
wheel and clean dashboard layout reflect Auburn's driver-focused
design, while a marbled period-style shift knob adds a touch of
vintage charm. The cabin also houses the control lever for the
two-speed "dual-ratio" rear axle, thoughtfully placed for easy
access from the bench seat. The car is outfitted with full weather
equipment, including a khaki top and matching side curtains that,
while showing some signs of age, remain serviceable and add a touch
of vintage charm.
We are delighted to welcome back this striking Speedster, a
familiar face at Hyman Ltd. that we last sold over two decades ago.
In the years since, it has been in the hands of a dedicated
enthusiast who treated it to a careful, restoration-level renewal.
More than just maintained, it was sympathetically and expertly
revitalized. The Lycoming straight-eight was rebuilt along with its
water pump, and a fresh wiring harness was installed for improved
electrical reliability. A new carburetor handles fueling duties,
though the original carb and fuel pump are included for those
seeking full authenticity. The brake shoes were relined for
confident stopping power, and new, period-style tires were fitted.
Further cosmetic and structural attention included pulling the body
from the frame for a full repaint, along with re-chroming of the
rear bumper, radiator cap, dash fascia, and windshield frame. The
result is a car that's both visually striking and mechanically fit,
ready for show field display or weekend drives with confidence.
A phenomenal example of Auburn's celebrated 8-98 Speedster, this
car represents the very best of early 1930s American motoring. It
is ready to be driven, displayed, and enjoyed as originally
intended. Whether destined for concours lawns, club events, or
weekend tours, this Speedster offers an unforgettable blend of
style, performance, and presence-an enduring symbol of America's
most expressive motoring era.
Offers welcome and trades considered.
