E. L. Cord took the struggling Auburn Automobile Company, established in 1903, in Auburn, Indiana by Charles Eckhart to national prominence. In 1924 he was invited to assume the presidency of a failing company. He soon introduced America’s lowest priced eight-cylinder car and took full control of the company in 1925. The Lycoming-powered Auburn became the basis that ultimately led to the formation of the Cord Corporation that included Lycoming Manufacturing, Stinson Aircraft, Duesenberg, Cord and more.

In spite of the Depression, Auburn achieved success in 1931 as a result of the model 8-98. Designed to accolades by Alan Leamy, the two-passenger 1931 Auburn 8-98 Speedster features a vee’d-windscreen, boattail styling and disappearing folding top.

This beautiful example received a frame-off restoration in the early 1980s and won an Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) National First Prize award in 1984. It is resplendent in black and silver with red pin-striping, a black convertible top and tan leather interior with an impressive dashboard and cabin area. It is fitted with the correct chrome wire wheels fitted with wide whitewall tires and held in place by a large knock-off cap.

The Auburn is powered by a 268-cid, 98-hp straight-eight cylinder engine with three-speed floor-mounted transmission with free-wheeling. Options include a single Pilot-Ray light, spotlight, dual sidemounts and golf club door.

The accurate and detailed Speedster body was beautifully executed in the late 1970s by Carl Amsley of Pennsylvania. He employed steel for the cowl and rear fenders, and fabricated aluminum for the doors and tail section to fashion this very precise example. He is said to have built a total of six of these impressive bodies. The intricate molding lines are crisp and exacting, as is the entire build.

Further benefits of ownership of this mighty car are that it is recognized by the Classic Car Club of America and is eligible for Auburn - Cord - Duesenberg Club events.