1933 Auburn 12-65 Salon Phaeton

Chassis No. 1094H

Engine No. BB2045A

Specifications

• Engine: 391 cubic inch Flathead Lycoming 45-degree V-12
• Carburetor: Single Zenith-Stromberg
• Power Output: 160 bhp at 3,400 rpm
• Transmission: 3-speed manual with overdrive
• Suspension: 4-wheel leaf spring suspension with dual-ratio rear axle
• Brakes: 4-wheel vacuum-assisted hydraulic drum brakes

Key Highlights

• Elegant design inspired by Murphy coachbuilders
• V-12 power with dual-ratio rear axle
• Most sought-after model year for 12-cylinder Auburns
• Exceptional value for a large multi-cylinder classic
• Tasteful color combination with a well-maintained restoration

The Auburn Twelve: A Game-Changer

In the mid-1920s, Erret Lobban Cord took control of the struggling Auburn Automobile Company and quickly turned it into a success. The pinnacle of this resurgence came in late 1931 with the introduction of a brand-new V-12 engine. This Auburn 12-160 was a revelation—it rivaled luxury brands in performance but was offered at a drastically reduced price of $975, making it an outstanding value for the era.

By 1933, Auburn introduced the 12-165, the most prestigious model in its lineup. This iteration combined powerful acceleration with an impressive top speed, making it one of the finest mid-range luxury cars of its time.

A Masterpiece of Design

The 1931-1933 Auburn models were a showcase of Alan Leamy’s visionary design. Leamy took inspiration from the stylish Cord L-29 and the elegant Murphy & Co. coachwork found on Duesenberg Model J chassis.

The Phaeton Sedan variant retained the hallmark features of Murphy-bodied cars, including:

• Slim chromed windshield pillars
• Squared-off side glass for a refined aesthetic
• A graceful, well-proportioned convertible top
• Thick chromed trim integrated into the beltline, adding a touch of exclusivity

The 1933 Auburn V-12 was truly a product of the Jazz Age, blending style, performance, and affordability in a way that few other brands could match.

A Beautifully Restored Example

This 1933 Auburn 12-165 Salon Phaeton (Chassis No. 1094H) has undergone an older but high-quality restorationand remains in excellent condition today.

Notable Features of This Car:

• Navy blue paintwork – nearly flawless and well-preserved
• Matching blue canvas top – in outstanding condition
• Blue leather interior – expertly maintained
• Excellent exterior brightwork, including:
  • Chrome knock-off wire wheels
  • Pilot Ray driving lights
  • Dual side-mounted spares with metal covers and mirrors
  • A rear-mounted trunk painted to match the body
• Engine compartment – clean and correctly detailed

This particular Auburn 12-165 was previously owned by John O'Quinn and later acquired by Henrik Frederiksen after being sold at Monterey in 2010.

Today, it presents an exciting opportunity to own a grand 1930s classic, offering elegance, power, and a distinguished history.