1931 Auburn Model 8-98A Phaeton Sedan

Errett Lobban Cord joined Auburn as general manager in 1924. Cord quickly set about restyling the cars, increasing sales, and diverted the company's path away from bankruptcy. In 1925 Cord arranged for Lycoming straight-eight engines to be installed in the existing six-cylinder chassis. In 1925, Auburns featured two-tone color schemes and a novel beltline that swept up over the bonnet. For three consecutive years, sales doubled. In 1926, Cord became president of the Auburn Automobile Company.

By the close of the 1920s, the eight-cylinder Auburns were becoming 'America's fastest' automobile. Al Leamy drove an 8-115 Speedster at 108.46mph over the measured mile at Daytona and went on to take the 24-hour record at Atlantic City Speedway.

Not only were the eight-cylinder Auburns encroaching on Stutz's speed accolade territory, but they were also exceptional value for money. The top-of-the-line 1931 Speedster sold for $1,395 which was less than half the price of the equivalent Stutz.

For 1931, the Auburns were given sweeping fenders and long hoods, a design that was used through 1933. The double-drop X-braced frame allowed the overall height to be three inches lower than previous models.

The Convertible Phaeton Sedan model was priced at $1,345 and featured exclusive options including roll-up windows and removable center pillars for a tight seal with the top raised. This example is a CCCA Grand Caravan tour car for many years. It has been restored and preserved for two decades and was in the same ownership for more than a quarter-century before, during and after its concours-correct restoration. The Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Club has given this car a Category 1 Certification as an original and unmolested example of its type.

Options on this car include dual side-mounted spare wheels, an accessory trunk and rack, dual chrome horns, and driving lamps. The interior has recently been re-trimmed in new and correct black leather. The exterior is finished in black and silver and accented by chrome bumpers, chrome spoke wheels with wide whitewall tires, factory-applied custom trim, and a tan cloth convertible top.

In 2013, the car was offered for sale at Bonhams Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for $92,000, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2013