1933 Auburn Model 12-165 Sedan

In the 1920s, E.L. Cord was very involved in the automobile industry. So much so, that he really wanted to own or direct a manufacturing company. He got his chance in 1924 when the Auburn Automobile company offered him a top-level management position. Cord understood all aspects of design and manufacturing. The depression of the late 1920s had a major impact on Cord and some of his outside business ventures, though the Auburn Company did manage to turn a profit. During this period, auto companies were engaged in a 'cylinder war' - trying to outdo each other on power. Companies like Franklin, Cadillac, Packard, Pierce Arrow, Lincoln and Marmon offered a 12-cylinder option. Auburn answered this challenge with a 12-cylinder engine that, at the time, was one of the cheapest ones produced. The 6.5-liter Lycoming engine produced a respectable 160 horsepower and could push the Auburn to 100+ mph. Though the company ended production in 1937, the Auburns of the early 1930s is considered to be some of the finest and most powerful cars produced during the era. These cars sold for under $1500, a hefty price but much cheaper than a similarly equipped Packard, Franklin, or Cadillac.

This car was shown at the ACD Museum prior to a complete restoration. Its ownership history is known and includes only 4 previous owners.