1935 Auburn Model 851 Phaeton Sedan

The Auburn 8-851 was available in both regularly aspirated and supercharged forms. The straight-eight produced 115 horsepower and with the addition of the supercharger, increased that to 150 bhp. There were four-wheel Bendix hydraulic drum brakes, a three-speed manual transmission, and a variety of body styles that rested on a 127-inch wheelbase. The list includes coupe, cabriolet, Brougham, sedan, and phaeton. The supercharged versions added a very popular Speedster model that was one of the most unique and attractive vehicles of its era.

In 1934, the Auburn Company invested in new tooling for their new line of modern and all-steel bodies. This was a very risky investment considering the world had been in a deep Financial Depression just a few years ago. Another significant move during this period was the replacement of Auburn stylist Al Leamy with the young Gordon Buehrig. Buehrig improved upon Leamy's design and focused heavily on the grille, hood, and front fenders. The new designs were introduced in 1935, and they were very well received.

This 1935 Auburn Model 851 Phaeton Sedan is powered by the naturally-aspirated eight-cylinder engine. It was once part of the noted Michigan collector Richard Kughn, who acquired it in 1974 from Elwood Griest of Livermore, California. The car was given a frame-off, no-expense-spared restoration in 1977, bringing it to show-quality. It has since accumulated a long list of awards, including National First Senior status from the Classic Car Club of America and Level One Certification by the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club in 1989.

After the Carail Museum was closed, the car was purchased by the current owner in 2003. It has continued to be well maintained, cared for, and used regularly on tours throughout New England. It is painted in Glacier White with a black leather interior and rides on whitewall tires. There are dual side-mounted spared with the proper metal wheel covers.

In 2009, 851 Phaeton was offered for sale at the Automobiles of Amelia Island auction presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $75,000 - $100,000. The lot failed to sell after achieving a high bid of $45,000, which was not enough to satisfy its reserve.

In 2009, this 8-851 Custom Phaeton was offered for sale by Bonhams Auction Company at the Exceptional Motorcars and Automobilia at the Quail Lodge Resort in Carmel, Ca. The car was sold for $64,350 inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2009