The 1936 Auburn 852 stands as a testament to American automotive ingenuity and luxury during the 1930s. With its powerful engine, elegant design, and advanced features, it remains an enduring symbol of pre-war automotive excellence. The supercharged Speedster, in particular, is celebrated as one of the most iconic and collectible cars of its era, admired for its beauty, performance, and historical significance.

This vehicle was purchased by the current owner’s father at the AACA Hershey, PA meet in 1989 and still has its original Lycoming supercharged engine which produces 150HP. 

Background

• Manufacturer: Auburn Automobile Company
• Year: 1936
• Model: 852

Specifications

• Engine: The Auburn 852 typically featured a 4.6-liter (279 cubic inches) inline-eight engine. The standard version produced around 115 horsepower, while the supercharged version delivered approximately 150 horsepower.
• Transmission: It came with a three-speed manual transmission with optional two-speed rear axle, allowing for greater flexibility and efficiency at different speeds.
• Chassis: The car was built on a robust and well-engineered chassis designed to provide stability and support for its powerful engine and luxurious body.
• Suspension: The 852 used a semi-elliptic leaf spring suspension setup both front and rear, providing a balance of comfort and handling.

Design and Features

• Body Style: The 852 was available in several body styles, including sedans, cabriolets, and the most famous Speedster. The Speedster, in particular, featured a dramatic boat-tail design that remains iconic.
• Design: The design of the Auburn 852 is a blend of elegance and innovation, with flowing lines, a bold grille, and art deco elements. The Speedster's distinctive tail and sweeping fenders are particularly noteworthy.
• Interior: The interior of the Auburn 852 was luxurious for its time, featuring high-quality materials such as leather upholstery, wood trim, and well-designed instrumentation. The cabin was designed to offer both comfort and style.

Performance

• Speed: The supercharged Speedster version could achieve a top speed of over 100 mph (160 km/h), making it one of the fastest cars of its era.
• Acceleration: The supercharged engine allowed for quick acceleration, with the car capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in under 15 seconds, which was impressive for the time.
• Handling: The 852 offered excellent handling characteristics for its day, with a well-balanced chassis and responsive steering, making it enjoyable to drive both on highways and winding roads.

Historical Significance

• Innovation: The Auburn 852 was known for its advanced engineering and innovative features, such as the optional Columbia dual-ratio rear axle, which provided better fuel efficiency and performance.
• Economic Context: The Auburn 852 was produced during the Great Depression, a challenging period for luxury automakers. Despite this, Auburn managed to create a car that symbolized hope and achievement, though the company ultimately ceased production in 1937.

Legacy

• Collector's Item: Today, the Auburn 852, especially the Speedster model, is highly prized by collectors and automotive enthusiasts. Its combination of design, performance, and historical significance makes it a sought-after classic.
• Cultural Impact: The Auburn 852 Speedster is frequently featured in classic car shows, auctions, and automotive museums, where it continues to captivate audiences with its timeless beauty and engineering excellence.
• Enduring Appeal: The 852's design and performance have left a lasting legacy in the automotive world, influencing future generations of car designers and enthusiasts.

You may purchase a print of the 1936 Auburn 852 in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.

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