The motorcar replaced the horse and buggy and, to some extent, the bicycle. Prominent bicycle and buggy manufacturers transitioned to motorcar production with varied levels of success. Thousands of new companies were birthed in support of the new technology; most failed, but a few succeeded. Longevity was linked to good engineering, creativity, ingenuity, and an immense amount of capital. The Auburn Company excelled in each of these categories. Their strong financial footing and engineering skills had been secured by years in the carriage business, and this foundation would result in some of the best cars built in America.
Although the legacy of the Auburn Company is tied to the flamboyant speedsters of the late 20s and 30s, its association with the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Corporation and prominent individuals such as Errett Loban Cord and the Duesenberg brothers, its history dates to the early years of the automobile. The Auburn company began automobile production in 1900 and built singles and twins exclusively until 1909. Their big twin developed an impressive 24hp, a rather substantial figure for the era. The company's first fours were introduced in 1909 and would provide the foundation for the new models going forward. In 1913, an upmarket inline six was introduced, and the lineup would eventually be consolidated under the six-pot banner by 1917. A parts shortage during World War I brought hardship to the industry, affecting Auburn's business, and eventually leading to the need for investment. A change of ownership in 1919 by a group of Chicago investors brought a few changes in engineering, but the real changes occurred in 1924 after the group was unable to achieve profitability. Among the changes was the hiring of E.L. Cord. Lycoming straight-eight engines were introduced in 1925, followed by the famous Boattail Speedster, and then the abrupt end when Cord's empire imploded in 1936.
The 1923 Auburn Model 6-43
The 1923 Auburn model catalog included the 6-43, the 6-63, and 6-51. All were six-cylinder models, with the 6-43 powered by a 195.6 cubic-inch Continental engine offering 50 horsepower. The 6-63 had a high-compression 248 cubic-inch overhead valve Weidely Straight Six that was also used in the Stutz Speedway Six, a car that was also well-known for exceptional performance. The engine was renowned for its simplicity with an updraft carburetor and high-compression head resting below the valve cover that proudly carried the Auburn name. The engines were paired with a three-speed manual transmission, and mechanical contracting rear wheel brakes provided the stopping power. The chassis were suspended via semi-elliptic leaf springs at the front and rear.
All three 1923 Auburn models were offered as a tourer and sedan. The 6-63 and 6-51 were also offered as a sport tourer and brougham. Additionally, the 6-51 could also be purchased as a Sport Tourer and Phaeton.
The 6-43 was the last new model introduced before Cord's takeover. Standard equipment included front and rear heaters, a sun visor, and a trunk. The touring sedan sold for $1,465 and had no available options.
by Dan Vaughan