1933 Auburn Model 12-165 Convertible Sedan

In the depths of the Great Depression, Auburn introduced its new 'Salon' models in eight and twelve cylinders. It was introduced in 1932, and it cost under $1,000 - less than an eight-cylinder Chrysler automobile at the time. It was Auburn's top-of-the-line offering, presenting stylish good looks at a good price. Unfortunately, buyers thought the old aphorism 'you get what you pay for' held true in Auburn's case, and the company lost money.

With designers like Alan Leamy and Gordon Buehrig, Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg automobiles sported some of the most audaciously stylish bodies of the era. This example sports special trim features including chrome moldings on the running boards and fenders; a belt line cove fitted with chrome molding; and moldings on the hood louvers. The head and cowl lamps, radiator shell, and grill were unique to the series. This Convertible Sedan has a very low top and the body line dips low in the rear - the top folds flush and compact. It has a factory trunk and sports the distinctive bow-tie bumper.

Powered by a 391 cubic-inch Lycoming-built V12 that produces 160 horsepower, it has a three-speed transmission, dual Stromberg carburetors, and Bijur chassis lubrication. The original X-frame was supplemented by the addition of an A subframe attachment that reduced the chance of flexing at the front end. It also boasts the ingenious 'Dual Ratio' differential which was operated by a dashboard lever. The top speed of this Auburn V12 Salon is around 100 mph.