In 1928 Auburn motors sent four 1928 Auburn 8 115 Boattail Speedster's to selected European distributors. Sir Malcolm Campbell, who had broken numerous land speed records in the 1920's and 1930's culminating in his 300 mph run at Bonneville in 1935, was one of the distributor's selected. The factory's objective was to have the cars raced as they had been successful on American tracks and in endurance competitions.
These successes propelled sales of the entire Auburn line. The racing history of the car is unknown but it is believed that the car ultimately became the personal transportation of Sir Malcolm. His monogram appears on the instrument cluster face. Period photos show the car parked at racetracks. Auburn developed an European sales presence very early in its history.
The 1928 Auburn 8-115 Boattail Speedster is a quintessential example of early American sports car design and performance. With its powerful inline-eight engine, distinctive boattail design, and luxurious interior, it remains an enduring symbol of automotive innovation and elegance from the late 1920s. The 8-115 Boattail Speedster's historical significance, combined with its timeless appeal, makes it one of the most celebrated and collectible classic cars of its era.
Background
- Manufacturer: Auburn Automobile Company
- Year: 1928
- Model: 8-115 Boattail Speedster
Specifications
- Engine: The Auburn 8-115 is powered by a 4.6-liter (279 cubic inches) inline-eight engine. This engine produces around 115 horsepower, which was substantial for its time and contributed to the car's performance.
- Transmission: It features a three-speed manual transmission with an optional two-speed rear axle, providing a range of speeds and improved performance flexibility.
- Chassis: The car is built on a sturdy chassis that supports its sporty design and powerful engine. The wheelbase of the 8-115 is approximately 125 inches.
- Suspension: The suspension system includes semi-elliptic leaf springs at both the front and rear, offering a balance of comfort and handling.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The Boattail Speedster is known for its sleek and dramatic boat-tail design, which tapers to a point at the rear. This design not only enhances its visual appeal but also improves aerodynamics.
- Design: The 8-115 features a stylish, streamlined body with flowing lines and chrome accents. The design is a good example of late 1920s Art Deco influence, combining form and function.
- Interior: The interior of the 8-115 Boattail Speedster is designed for both luxury and performance. It typically includes high-quality materials such as leather upholstery and stylish dashboard instruments.
Performance
- Speed: The Auburn 8-115 Boattail Speedster could achieve a top speed of around 90 mph (145 km/h), making it a fast and desirable car for enthusiasts of its time.
- Acceleration: The car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 12 seconds, reflecting its strong performance capabilities.
- Handling: The handling of the 8-115 was well-regarded for its time, with a well-balanced chassis and responsive steering that made it enjoyable to drive.
Historical Significance
- Design Innovation: The Boattail Speedster's distinctive rear design was an innovative and stylish choice that set it apart from other cars of the era. It highlighted Auburn's commitment to creating visually striking and functional automobiles.
- Luxury and Performance: The Auburn 8-115 Boattail Speedster represented the combination of luxury and performance that was highly sought after by car enthusiasts during the late 1920s. It catered to those who wanted a car that was both fast and elegant.
- Great Depression Era: Despite being produced during the early years of the Great Depression, the Auburn 8-115 Boattail Speedster was a symbol of luxury and innovation, reflecting Auburn's ability to produce high-quality cars even in challenging economic times.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the Auburn 8-115 Boattail Speedster is a highly prized classic car among collectors and enthusiasts. Its distinctive design, performance, and historical significance make it a sought-after collectible.
- Cultural Impact: The 8-115 Boattail Speedster is frequently featured in classic car shows, auctions, and museums, where it continues to attract admiration for its beauty and engineering excellence.
- Enduring Appeal: The design and performance of the 8-115 Boattail Speedster have left a lasting impact on the automotive world, influencing future generations of sports cars and luxury automobiles.
You may purchase a print of the 1928 Auburn 8 115 Boattail Speedster in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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