The Auburn Boattail Speedster is more than just a car; it's a rolling sculpture, a testament to the artistry and innovation of the Classic Era of automobiles. This legendary vehicle, produced by the Auburn Automobile Company from 1928 to 1936, captured the hearts of enthusiasts with its distinctive design and exhilarating performance. The Boattail Speedster remains an icon of automotive history, celebrated for its elegance, rarity, and the sheer thrill it offered to those fortunate enough to experience it. The Auburn Boattail Speedster stands as a symbol of a bygone era, a time when automobiles were not just modes of transportation but statements of style and technological prowess. Its impact on automotive design is undeniable, and its legacy continues to inspire collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts around the world. The Auburn Boattail Speedster represents the pinnacle of American automotive design during the Art Deco period. Its sweeping lines, distinctive rear end, and luxurious appointments made it an instant classic. This article delves into the history, design, performance, and enduring appeal of this remarkable automobile, exploring why it remains one of the most coveted and admired vehicles ever produced. The car's sleek silhouette and powerful engine embodied the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and the optimism of the pre-war era. It was a car for the wealthy and adventurous, a symbol of success and a taste for the finer things in life. The Boattail Speedster's influence can be seen in many subsequent designs, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless beauty and engineering excellence. It is more than just a car; it is a work of art, a piece of history, and a symbol of the American dream. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into each Boattail Speedster are evident in every curve and every component. From the gleaming chrome to the supple leather interior, every aspect of the car exudes quality and luxury. It is a car that demands attention, a car that turns heads wherever it goes, and a car that evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time when automobiles were built with passion and pride. The Auburn Boattail Speedster is a true icon, and its legacy will continue to inspire generations of automotive enthusiasts to come.

History of the Auburn Automobile Company

Before diving into the specifics of the Boattail Speedster, it's essential to understand the context of the Auburn Automobile Company. Founded in 1900 by Charles Eckhart and his sons, the company initially produced horse-drawn carriages before transitioning to automobiles. Auburn faced numerous challenges in its early years, including financial difficulties and changing market demands. By the mid-1920s, the company was on the brink of collapse when Errett Lobban Cord stepped in. Cord, a charismatic salesman and entrepreneur, acquired Auburn and implemented a series of bold strategies that transformed the company's fortunes. He introduced innovative designs, improved engineering, and aggressive marketing campaigns that resonated with consumers. Cord's vision was to create luxurious, high-performance automobiles that rivaled the best European brands. Under Cord's leadership, Auburn experienced a period of unprecedented growth and success. The company introduced several groundbreaking models, including the Boattail Speedster, which quickly became a symbol of Auburn's commitment to excellence. Cord's focus on style and performance helped Auburn stand out in a crowded marketplace, and the company's cars became known for their distinctive designs and powerful engines. However, the Great Depression of the 1930s brought new challenges, and Auburn, along with many other automakers, struggled to survive. Despite Cord's best efforts, the company eventually succumbed to financial pressures and ceased production in 1937. The legacy of the Auburn Automobile Company lives on through its iconic models, which continue to be admired and sought after by collectors around the world. The Boattail Speedster remains the most recognizable and beloved Auburn, a testament to Cord's vision and the company's commitment to innovation and style. The history of Auburn is a story of ambition, innovation, and ultimately, tragedy, but its impact on the automotive world is undeniable.

The Distinctive Design of the Boattail Speedster

The design of the Auburn Boattail Speedster is what truly sets it apart. Conceived by chief designer Alan Leamy, the Boattail Speedster featured a sleek, aerodynamic body with a distinctive tapered rear end that resembled the stern of a boat – hence the name. This design was not only visually striking but also functional, improving the car's aerodynamics and contributing to its impressive performance. The Boattail Speedster's body was crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques. The car's long, flowing lines and graceful curves exuded elegance and sophistication, while its bold chrome accents added a touch of glamour. The interior was equally luxurious, featuring supple leather upholstery, polished wood trim, and a full complement of gauges and controls. One of the most distinctive features of the Boattail Speedster was its two-piece windshield, which added to its sporty and aerodynamic appearance. The car also featured a unique hood design with louvers that allowed for efficient engine cooling. The Boattail Speedster was available in a range of vibrant colors, each carefully chosen to complement its distinctive design. The car's overall aesthetic was a perfect blend of style and functionality, making it an instant classic. Leamy's design was a masterpiece of automotive artistry, and it helped to establish Auburn as a leader in automotive styling. The Boattail Speedster's design was so influential that it inspired many other automakers, and its impact can still be seen in modern cars today. The Boattail Speedster remains a symbol of automotive elegance and innovation, and its design continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world. Its timeless beauty and aerodynamic efficiency make it a true icon of the Classic Era of automobiles.

Performance and Engineering

Beyond its stunning looks, the Auburn Boattail Speedster delivered impressive performance for its time. The early models were powered by a Lycoming inline-eight engine, which provided ample power and torque. In 1935, Auburn introduced a supercharged version of the Boattail Speedster, which boosted its horsepower and made it one of the fastest production cars of the era. The supercharged models were capable of reaching speeds of over 100 miles per hour, a remarkable feat for the 1930s. The Boattail Speedster's chassis was designed to provide a comfortable and stable ride, while its suspension system was engineered for optimal handling. The car's brakes were powerful and responsive, ensuring confident stopping power. The engineering of the Boattail Speedster was as impressive as its design. Auburn's engineers worked tirelessly to create a car that was not only beautiful but also reliable and durable. The car's engine was meticulously crafted and tested to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The Boattail Speedster's transmission was smooth and precise, allowing for effortless shifting. The car's overall construction was robust and well-engineered, ensuring that it could withstand the rigors of daily use. The Boattail Speedster's performance and engineering were a testament to Auburn's commitment to excellence. The car was a true driver's car, offering a thrilling and engaging driving experience. Its combination of power, handling, and braking made it a formidable competitor on the road and on the track. The Auburn Boattail Speedster's engineering innovations helped to establish Auburn as a leader in automotive technology. The car's supercharged engine and advanced chassis design were groundbreaking for their time, and they helped to pave the way for future advancements in automotive engineering. The legacy of the Boattail Speedster lives on through its performance and engineering achievements, which continue to inspire engineers and enthusiasts alike.

The Enduring Appeal and Collectibility

Today, the Auburn Boattail Speedster is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Its rarity, beauty, and historical significance make it one of the most valuable and collectible automobiles ever produced. Well-preserved or expertly restored examples can fetch millions of dollars at auction, reflecting the enduring appeal of this iconic vehicle. The Boattail Speedster's collectibility is driven by several factors. First, its limited production numbers make it a rare and exclusive vehicle. Second, its stunning design and luxurious appointments make it a desirable object of art. Third, its historical significance as a symbol of the Classic Era of automobiles adds to its allure. The Boattail Speedster is not just a car; it is a piece of history, a work of art, and a symbol of American ingenuity. Owning a Boattail Speedster is a privilege and a responsibility. Collectors who own these cars are not just preserving a piece of automotive history; they are also ensuring that future generations can appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of this iconic vehicle. The Auburn Boattail Speedster is a true investment, both financially and emotionally. Its value is likely to continue to appreciate over time, and its ownership provides a sense of pride and satisfaction. The Boattail Speedster is a car that will always be admired and respected, and its legacy will continue to inspire collectors and enthusiasts for generations to come. The enduring appeal of the Boattail Speedster is a testament to its timeless beauty and engineering excellence. The car's design has stood the test of time, and its performance remains impressive even by modern standards. The Boattail Speedster is a car that will always be in style, and its collectibility is a reflection of its enduring appeal. The Auburn Boattail Speedster is a true icon of the automotive world, and its legacy will continue to inspire and captivate enthusiasts for many years to come.