The audacious 1935–1936 Auburn Speedsters boasted curvaceous “boattail” bodywork on a potent supercharged eight-cylinder chassis, with a two-speed rear axle for relaxed highway cruising. A perfect storm of engineering and beauty, these cars combine elegance and modern drivability into an outstanding touring machine. The model has been referred to as the one genuine American sports car of the Classic Era.

The car offered here, one of around 150 authentic original speedsters produced, has among the finest histories of any known survivor. It was purchased new from Sherwood Chevrolet-Auburn of Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania, by local dairy owner A.B. Cole. Later it was acquired by another local businessman, Nathan H. “Cubby” Baer, in whose ownership it was regularly driven in his town of Meshoppen, becoming something of a local fixture. It actually finished 1st in the Antique Classic Division at the Giants Despair Hill Climb in Wilkes-Barre in 1956, with Mr. Baer behind the wheel.

Baer and his descendants cared for the car until 1994, when it was purchased by Richard George, an enthusiast from New York. Photographs on file show a solid, original and intact car that, if found today, might well have been left in unrestored condition. Nonetheless it was fully restored to original condition, in ivory with a red interior, preserving as many of its original components as possible, including even the original body wood in the floors, which is still stamped with the original body number in the sill, and of course the original engine. Following this restoration, the car scored 99 points in Classic Car Club of America judging and First Senior and Preservation awards from the Antique Automobile Club of America.

Renowned and beloved enthusiast, Ervin “Bud” Lyon, purchased the Auburn from Mr. George in 1998, and owned it for five years, during which time it was maintained by the noted Paul Russell & Company. The current owner acquired the car in 2003, becoming only the fourth caretaker since new, and has maintained it since in his private collection alongside other impressive Full Classics.

Few surviving Auburn Speedsters have the clean, “no stories” history of this car, which can safely be said to have been truly enjoyed by enthusiasts and well preserved since the first day of its existence. It is ideal for further enjoyment in CCCA or Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club events, now with only its sixth owner.