Chassis No.
C127988
Introduced for 1928 under the leadership of E.L. Cord, the Auburn Speedster transformed the company's image from a respected value-priced automobile manufacturer into one of America's most exciting performance marques. Conceived as a limited-production halo model, the Speedster combined striking boattail styling, advanced engineering, and impressive performance at a price that undercut many of its luxury rivals. Its rakish profile, sharply raked V-windshield, and tapered tail drew inspiration from contemporary racing machines, creating one of the most recognizable silhouettes of the Classic Era. For 1929, the lineup expanded, offering smooth straight-eight power and refined road manners while retaining the dramatic styling that made the model an instant sensation. Built in relatively small numbers, the Speedster succeeded in drawing customers into Auburn showrooms while establishing the marque's sporting reputation. Today, the 1929 Auburn 8-90 Speedster stands among the most coveted American classics of the pre-war era, with its iconic boattail coachwork representing the pinnacle of Auburn's design legacy and a prized centerpiece in the world's finest collections.
Documented provenance of this Auburn begins in February 1980, when a surviving copy of its title shows Mr. Garnet Rose of Gibbon, Nebraska, purchasing the Speedster from Mr. John McGuire of Buffalo, New York. Mr. Rose was noted in ACD Club Newsletters for restoring other Auburn Speedster during this same period, demonstrating his love for these unique and handsome automobiles. This beautiful Speedster would later be under the watchful eye of Don Knight of Edinburgh, Indiana. Mr. Knight was an early Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Club member, taking his various Auburn Speedsters to the annual Club Reunion in Auburn, Indiana, dating back in the 1960s toward the clubs inception. Most notably, Don also served as the ACD Club's technical advisor for 1927-1930 Auburns, which suited him perfectly, as he had restored various Speedsters throughout the years. He applied that same expertise when selecting Auburns for his own collection, favoring examples that retained correct features, finishes, and details.
Mr. Knight would then sell this Speedster to Tom Gallo of Florida in the Spring of 2010, after which, a concours level restoration was entrusted to a noted firm in New Jersey. A stunning and correct outcome, the streamlined body was finished in correct Cat's Eye Green with black fenders, while the frame was painted in Myrtle Green, another correct Auburn color for 1929. The interior was inlaid with Wilton wool carpet and green leather. During the rebuild of the engine, new .30 over pistons were installed and the valves were modified to accept unleaded fuel and add to the overall driving and ownership experience.
Handsomely presented, this Auburn is well equipped with an array of period-correct items, such as dual headlights, dual cowl lights, a radiator stone guard, Pilot Ray driving lights, dual side-mounted spare tires adorned with Auburn script mirrors, spotlight mounted on the running board, sharply raked V-windshield, a signature of these early Auburn speedsters. Furthering its appearance, it is adorned with a folding, and removable black cloth convertible top.
After Gallos ownership, this example was acquired by the current collector in 2016, where it has since been maintained and admired in his own impressive collection. Limitedly exhibited, it offers the next owner the rare opportunity to show a comprehensively restored Auburn 8-90 Speedster.
Today, this beautiful Auburn represents one of the finest expressions of E.L. Cord's sporting vision, combining authentic restoration, known provenance, and timeless Art Deco styling. Equally rewarding on the concours field or partaking in noted tours, it stands ready to provide its next caretaker with the same unforgettable motoring experience that has captivated enthusiasts all over the world for nearly a century.
* Formerly owned by Don Knight, noted ACD Club technical advisor for 1927-1930 Auburns
* Recipient of a concours level restoration
* Handsomely presented in lovely period-correct colors
* Well equipped with an array of period-correct items including its striking running board-mounted spotlight
* A sporting and streamlined Classic Era design suited for show and display
From the Kruse Auctions
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