An authentic and meticulously restored example of the iconic 1935 Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster is now available, offering a rare glimpse into the golden age of American automotive design and engineering. Known as the “boattail” speedster due to its distinctively tapered rear, this model is a testament to the innovation of the Auburn Automobile Company, which thrived during the pre-war era by producing high-performance, stylish vehicles that rivaled their European counterparts.
This particular Speedster, serial number 851 33108 E, boasts a storied history with well-known collectors. It was initially owned by classic car luminary Tom Barrett in the 1970s and later became part of Jerry J. Moore’s vast collection in the 1980s and 1990s. Moore, a significant figure in American car collecting, specialized in Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg models, making this Speedster a centerpiece of his impressive stable. After exchanging hands through the renowned Blackhawk Collection and several other notable collectors, the car was acquired by its current owner in 2021.
The Speedster’s design, attributed to the legendary Gordon Buehrig, is as audacious today as it was in the 1930s. The straight hood, V-shaped windshield, pontoon fenders, and gently sloping doors culminate in the iconic chrome-accented rear. This specific model, finished in classic black with a red interior, retains all the elegance of its original restoration, with correct side curtains, wire wheels with chrome discs, and period-correct blackwall tires.
Underneath the stylish exterior lies the heart of a performance machine. The supercharged straight-eight engine, enhanced by a Schwitzer-Cummins blower, produces 150 horsepower, offering an exhilarating driving experience. The dual-ratio Columbia rear axle provides flexibility in gear ratios, enhancing performance for city driving and highway cruising. Each Speedster bears a dashboard plaque certifying its capability of reaching 100.8 mph, signed by the legendary speed driver David “Ab” Jenkins, a testament to its racing heritage.
With its Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club certification as a Category 1 original example, this Speedster represents a well-maintained and well-documented classic. It has undergone cosmetic and mechanical sorting, including a recent engine reseal, ensuring its readiness for both display and spirited drives. This 1935 Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster remains an enduring symbol of American ingenuity, blending timeless design with impressive engineering prowess.
Shawn Henry