Description
The Auburn 8-115 Speedster, introduced in 1928, was a high-performance and visually striking model that solidified the Auburn Automobile Company’s reputation for producing powerful and stylish vehicles. Part of Auburn’s “8” series, the 8-115 Speedster was equipped with a 4.6-liter Lycoming straight-eight engine that produced an impressive 115 horsepower. This power output, quite significant for its time, made the 8-115 one of the fastest cars of the late 1920s, capable of reaching speeds of over 100 mph (161 km/h), an extraordinary feat for road cars during that era. The “115” in its name referred to its horsepower, which set it apart as a vehicle aimed at those seeking both speed and luxury.
The design of the Auburn 8-115 Speedster was sleek and aerodynamic, reflecting the car’s performance-oriented nature. It featured a long, low-profile body with flowing lines, a raked windshield, and large, chrome headlights that added to its bold presence. The car’s unique boat-tail rear design further accentuated its streamlined shape, enhancing its visual dynamism. The Speedster was known for its use of striking two-tone paint schemes, which were a hallmark of Auburn’s design language, adding to the car’s elegance and appeal. Wire-spoke wheels and dual side-mounted spare tires added to its sporting credentials, while also enhancing its luxurious look.
Inside, the Auburn 8-115 Speedster was designed with a focus on the driving experience, featuring a simple yet stylish cockpit. Leather bucket seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a straightforward instrument panel gave the driver a sense of control and comfort. The Speedster’s interior was functional, yet still exuded a level of refinement that appealed to Auburn’s upscale clientele.
In addition to its speed and performance, the Auburn 8-115 Speedster was also known for its affordability relative to its competitors. Despite its high-performance credentials and luxury styling, Auburn managed to price the car more reasonably than other high-end manufacturers, which made it an attractive option for buyers who wanted a powerful, stylish car without paying the premium typically associated with such vehicles.
The Auburn 8-115 Speedster became an icon of 1920s automotive design, embodying the spirit of adventure and luxury that characterized the golden age of motoring. Its combination of powerful performance, advanced engineering, and head-turning design made it one of the most desirable cars of its time, and it remains a celebrated classic in automotive history.