At the height of the Classic Era, few automobiles provided such affordable elegance as the Auburn. Particularly desirable are the 1932 and 1933 models, which combined the classic, subtle elegance of Alan Leamy’s design with the new “Dual Ratio” rear axle. This feature offered the driver a choice of high or low ratio in any of the three forward gears, which were selectable by adjusting a lever while driving below 40 mph.

It functioned by operating a vacuum-actuated clutch that locked or released a planetary gear set that was housed in the rear differential, creating the two possible output ratios and, in essence, a very rudimentary six-speed transmission. Eight-cylinder Auburns with Dual Ratio rears are among the most pleasurable driving cars of their time, and today, they represent an outstanding performance bargain, just as they did when new.

The car shown here has a decades-long, well-established reputation for excellence, having been restored while in the 40-year ownership of C.W. “Bill” Bocock, of Kerrville, Texas. The late Mr. Bocock was a skilled engineer who put his talents to work on a small, well-chosen stable of Auburns, Cords, and Duesenbergs. Not only were his cars all quality examples of their kind and beautifully restored, they were also mechanically sorted, allowing them to run and drive reliably on the long tours that the Bococks enjoyed. It is no wonder that the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club now gives the annual Bocock Award to the best ACD automobile restored by its owner.

Mr. Bocock’s Phaeton Sedan was the recipient of one of his outstanding restorations, and when complete, it won Best Auburn at the ACD Club’s National Reunion twice, in both 1986 and 1987. It went on to win CCCA Premier honors, scoring 100 points twice, in 1993 and 1994, and it has been honored as recently as this March, when it received an Amelia Award at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. It shows beautifully in correct Catseye Grey and Wood Smoke Green, with Light Spanish Tile Cream wheels and such desirable accessories as a Philco Transitone radio, dual side-mounted spares, cowl lights, a Pilot Ray driving light, a Flying Lady hood ornament, and a correct trunk and rack.

This car is ideal for continued showing and driving in Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club and Classic Car Club of America events, and it ranks in the highest echelon of eight-cylinder Auburns.