Lot 116

Amelia Island 2018

1931 Auburn Eight Custom Speedster

Offered from the James F. Scott Collection

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$190,400 USD | Sold

United States | Amelia Island, Florida

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Serial No.
8-98A 16951 E
Engine No.
GU 49732
  • Offered from the James F. Scott Collection
  • An iconic Alan Leamy design, from its first year of production
  • High-quality older restoration in attractive colors
  • Ideal for Auburn Cord Duesenberg (ACD) Club activities

For its second generation, beginning in 1931, Auburn's "boattail" speedster was stunningly redesigned by Alan Leamy. Standing only 93-in. tall, it is lower than many of today's automobiles and was absolutely sleek and dashing by the standards of the early 1930s. At less than $1,000, the eight-cylinder model was an outstanding performance bargain, albeit one that was underappreciated in the depths of the Depression. Today, very few examples of the inaugural 1931 model remain in existence worldwide.

The car offered here was fitted with its beautifully executed speedster body in the late 1970s by Carl Amsley, the well-known Pennsylvania restorer, using a steel cowl and rear fenders, and aluminum doors and tail section, with the intricate molding lines of the tail accurately recreated in the high-quality build. Further restored in the early 1980s in its present black and silver livery, touched off by red pinstriping, a black convertible top, and a tan leather interior, the car was an Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) National First Prize winner in 1984. It was subsequently acquired for Mr. Scott's collection in the spring of 2013, and it has remained well kept in his care.

The car's restoration is overall well preserved, with only minor signs of aging, and has recently benefited from an engine rebuild by Bill Anderson of Early American Auto Repair. It is fitted with several desirable accessories, including correct chrome wire wheels with wide whitewall tires, a single Pilot Ray driving light, and a spotlight.

This year, the Auburn Cord Duesenberg (ACD) Club is celebrating the Year of the Speedster. There would be few better ways to take part than behind the wheel of this beautifully finished, dramatic Auburn, carrying one of the most famous designs of the great Classic Era.