1932 Auburn 12-160A Phaeton Sedan

The V-12 engine found in the 1932 Auburn was designed by chief engineer George Kublin. It had a narrow 45-degree 'vee' and an unusual combustion chamber, which was set on an angle to the cylinders. The valves were in the heads, but they were horizontal, and they were operated by a single camshaft through the rockers. The 391 cubic-inch engine offered 160 horsepower. Though the engine was smaller than its competitors, it was no less powerful. Standard equipment on the Custom models included the famous Dual-Ratio rear axle, allowing the car to be driven in either high gear ratios, for open country roads, or in a lower ratio, for city driving.

At Muroc Dry Lake, Eddie Miller drove a Speedster model to 31 American speed records from flying starts and nine international records from standing starts.

These cars were produced for only a short period, lasting from 1932 to 1934. They were the first 12-cylinder car to have a starting price under $1,000.

This Auburn Twelve Custom Phaeton model 12-160A was formerly owned by Larry Dorcy who displayed it at the 2009 edition of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The car was restored several years ago in a two-tone blue, using shades similar to the factory-correct Auburn Blue. There is a leather interior, a canvas top, and blue Wilton wool carpets. During restoration, the car was upgraded with the Salon model trim, including chrome inserts below the windows, Salon door handles, and polished stainless trim on the hood louvers. It has chromed headlamps, headlights, and wire wheels with covered side mounts. The engine was fully rebuilt during the restoration, and given an American-LaFrance V-12 engine block.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2014

In the 1930s E.L. Cord's Auburns offered multi-cylinder performance and dramatic styling at a price that was noticeably lower than that of many other luxury cars. This V-12 convertible Phaeton, with a Lycoming-built V-12 engine and a 2-speed rear axle, is an excellent example of why the cars were such a success during the difficult economic times of the early 1930s.