Serial no. 898A 15822 H

Engine no. GU 48355

Body no. L-28-2286

Although sales of Auburns dropped in the immediate aftermath of the stock market crash, they increased dramatically in 1931, thanks to the introduction of the 8-98, the only model offered that year. The 8-98 took advantage of a stiff X-braced chassis frame, a powerful 268 cubic inch straight eight-cylinder Lycoming engine, and the skills of several Cord-owned coachbuilders to present a car unmatched for price, performance, and styling. Two 8-98 lines were offered - a standard model and the more luxurious 8-98A Custom, which added an additional $200 to the price of a comparable standard model.

The 8-98A Custom phaeton sedan offered here was restored in 1976 by the well-known ACD specialist, Randy Ema of Orange, California, for then-owner Tom Kemp of Anaheim. Mr. Ema recalls the Auburn as having been a very good, solid California car, which required little mechanical work and only some minor rust repair in the doors; much of the body and sheet metal remain original. Finished in an elegant two-tone red over tan interior, it was very successful in West Coast competition, including Best Auburn at the ACD Club West Coast Meet of 1978, and 2nd in Class at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance that same year.

Subsequent owners of the Auburn included Chris Logan; well-known Michigan collector, James Couzens; and longtime ACD Club members, Gary and Cheryl Howe, who enjoyed it in many Club activities. It has been well-maintained in its current ownership and still shows remarkably well, with good paint and interior; it would be a wonderful tour automobile or even appropriate for local and regional concours.

This is a beautiful Auburn with wonderful heritage and a quality older restoration, ideal for the ACD enthusiast’s collection.