When E.L. Cord acquired the Auburn Automobile company in the mid 1920's, he made it a feature marquee in his quest to create his own automobile empire. Cord sought to create automobiles of the highest caliber with regards to both styling and engineers. Alongside stablemate Duesenberg, Auburn was regarded as one of the foremost automobiles in the upper end luxury market. By the mid 1930's the Great Depression had taken its toll on Cords empire and the end was in sight. …
When E.L. Cord acquired the Auburn Automobile company in the mid 1920’s, he made it a feature marquee in his quest to create his own automobile empire. Cord sought to create automobiles of the highest caliber with regards to both styling and engineers. Alongside stablemate Duesenberg, Auburn was regarded as one of the foremost automobiles in the upper end luxury market. By the mid 1930’s the Great Depression had taken its toll on Cords empire and the end was in sight. Despite these challenges, E.L. Cord continued to manufacture beautiful automobiles, refusing to compromise on their high standards. This 1936 Auburn 852 Supercharged Phaeton is a wonderful example of one of the finest Auburns ever produced. According to records, this vehicle is one of 199 852 Supercharged Phaetons built.
Regarded as a true classic by the Classic Car Club of America, this 1936 Auburn 852 Supercharged Phaeton (engine # GH 5481, serial # 31457) is a certified category #1 vehicle by the Auburn, Cord, Duesenberg club ( ACD) meaning that all of its major components and body are of original manufacturing. According to records provided by the current owner and provided through the ACD, this 852 Supercharged Phaeton was originally sold to a gentleman in Inglewood California in 1936. For the majority of its life, this Auburn spent its time in California. Ownership changed hands in 1969 and then again in 1979. Prior ownership information is available in records provided by the seller. Beginning in the early 1980’s this Auburn underwent an extensive and multi-year long complete restoration by Jerry’s Auto Restoration of Lake Havasu, AZ. Lovingly cared for ever since, this Supercharged Phaeton has been maintained to a high degree and shows amazingly well for an older restoration which speaks highly of the quality of work that was performed.
Simply stated, this Auburn 852 Supercharged Phaeton is one of the most stylish vehicles produced in the 1930’s with performance to match. Under the hood this 852 is powered by its Lycoming 280ci engine which features its Schwitzer-Cummins centrifugal superchargers, taking the rated horsepower up to 150hp from 115. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a three speed manual transmission and for added performance and cruising speeds, this Auburn also features a two speed rear end. Mechanically, under the current ownership, this vehicle has been well cared for by its current owner and this car runs and drives extremely well. The engine runs strong and the transmission and rear end gearing all shift smoothly. When driving this vehicle, you can feel the power and torque of the supercharged engine. Driving this Auburn is an amazing experience.
Not to be outdone on the exterior, this Auburn features some of the most elegant designs ever paired with four wheels. The high rolling tear drop front fenders and to the sleek angled rear section give an impression of elegance, speed, and performance, especially when one notices the famous exposed side exhaust feature of the Supercharged cars. On the interior, the soft leather seats, with matching carpeting create a luxurious environment for a ride. The dash board area is elegantly trimmed with art deco designed machine stainless steel. Even the gauges are as attractive as they are functional.
Opportunities to own an ACD certified #1 category Supercharged Phaeton are as rare as the car itself. This Auburn 852 Supercharged Phaeton would be a welcomed addition to any serious enthusiast’s collection. Vehicle sold with a title.
*The following ratings were provided by the consignor, based on a scale of ‘Poor’, ‘Fair’, ‘Good’, ‘Very Good’ or ‘Excellent’. (Excellent = 100% restored)