The Auburn Automobile Company was established in 1903 and matured into a well-respected builder of reliable cars, but it was not until E.L. Cord assumed the company’s presidency in 1924 that its market stature grew. In fact, as the once-buoyant auto market collapsed following Black Tuesday, Auburn’s sales continued to increase. By 1931, Auburn was the 13th largest American automaker, but the triumph was short-lived, as sales fell drastically in 1932 and 1933.

Respected Auburn designer Al Leamy left Auburn in 1934, as he was saddled with undeserved responsibility for the company’s disappointing sales figures. With few available funds and little time, Gordon Buehrig and his small design staff kept the best elements of Leamy’s 1934 designs. Buehrig’s team concentrated on the frontal area by skillfully revising the grille and adding a pair of handsome “semi-pontoon” front fenders. Tasteful side louvers and formed body moldings create near perfection for period design. Many consider 1934 to be amongst the pinnacle years for design within the automotive industry.

The 1934 Auburn 652 Cabriolet being offered features a beautiful and professionally executed restoration that includes the paint, chrome, body work, engine, drivetrain, and undercarriage. A beautiful interior restoration includes the correct green leather and carpets, plus an excellent fitting “hideaway” Haartz cloth tan top with green leather piping as well. The rumble seat is also fitted in forest green material. With a folding windshield, the sporting style shines through. When fixed in the upright position, the roll-up side windows fit perfectly to the top for a dry, comfortable ride.

The Auburn is reported to be powered by its original 85 horsepower, 210 cubic inch inline six-cylinder Lycoming engine that is matched with a three-speed manual transmission and two-speed (and highly desirable) Columbia rear end. The late owner had the car put through the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club certification process and was assigned A278 as its certification number. The engine number is WF2752 and the Central Manufacturing body number is L-65 99.

Carrying the beautiful Art Deco touches on the dash fascia, the Auburn also has a matching (to the top) tan boot, rear-mounted spare with metal cover, single front driving light, two-tone paint, wire wheels, whitewall tires, four-wheel hydraulic brakes, dual windshield wipers, and the aforementioned rumble seat which doubles the occupancy.

Auburn presented a high standard to their automobiles that was acclaimed for quick acceleration, smooth power, and stability that took the “work” out of driving. A 1934 Auburn magazine ad succinctly and confidently stated: “If the car does not sell itself you will not be asked to buy.” This wonderful Auburn is ready to tour or show with impressive flair.