This 1933 Auburn 12-165 Salon Speedster is one of only nineteen Salon Speedsters produced by the factory in 1933. The Salon, being the top of the line model, features more attractive styling details. The Salon features include modifications to the grille, headlights, instruments, front bumper and gas tank apron.
By the 1930's, due to improved roads, speed truly was of the essence. The very talented designer Al Leamy created some of the most striking and sleek designs of the period, the pinnacle being the Auburn Boattail Speedster.
In 1932, in an effort to outdo their competitors, Auburn introduced the new V-12 line. Built by Lycoming, the powerful new engine made the car fast. The V-12 set a number of records and won the America Stock Car Speed Championships for 1932 and 1933, with recorded times of up to 117mph. However, the Great Depression took its toll and Auburn was dramatically affected.
Engine and Performance
- Engine: The 1933 Auburn 12-165 Salon Speedster was powered by a Lycoming 391 cubic inch (6.4-liter) V12 engine.
- Power: This engine produced 160 to 165 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful engines of its time.
- Performance: The Speedster could reach impressive speeds, with some models achieving over 100 mph (160 km/h). Its powerful engine and lightweight design allowed for swift acceleration and a thrilling driving experience.
Body Style and Design
- Body Style: The Salon Speedster was a two-seat, open-top sports car with a distinctive and aerodynamic design. The term "Speedster" denoted its sporty and performance-oriented nature.
- Design: The 1933 Auburn 12-165 Salon Speedster featured a sleek and elegant design by Alan Leamy, characterized by its long hood, flowing fenders, and distinctive boat-tail rear end. The design was influenced by the Art Deco movement, emphasizing streamlined and modern aesthetics.
Interior Features
- Interior: The interior of the 12-165 Salon Speedster was luxurious and well-appointed, featuring high-quality materials such as leather upholstery and wood trim. The dashboard was equipped with comprehensive instrumentation and stylish gauges, offering a sophisticated and comfortable driving environment.
- Amenities: The car came with advanced features for its time, including a steering column-mounted tachometer and a dashboard clock, adding to its appeal as a luxury vehicle.
Technological Innovations
- Innovations: The Auburn 12-165 Salon Speedster incorporated several advanced engineering features for its era, including:
- Dual-ratio rear axle: Allowing drivers to switch between different gear ratios for improved performance and fuel efficiency.
- Hydraulic brakes: Providing better stopping power and safety compared to mechanical brakes.
- Independent front suspension: Enhancing ride comfort and handling capabilities.
You may purchase a print of the 1933 Auburn 12-165 Salon Speedster in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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