Stepping back into the 1930s, the 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon Phaeton Sedan was a masterpiece of design. It was created at a time when automakers competed to build the most luxurious and stylish cars. This particular model, a leftover from the 1933 Salon series, was renumbered for 1934. It holds a unique place in history. The Salon series was an attempt by Auburn to elevate its brand. It was about prestige and performance. This car’s story is an incredible journey.
A New Era of Luxury and Style
The Auburn Salon series began in 1933. It was an ambitious project to boost the company’s image. It had a unique, strengthened A-frame chassis. It also came with special trim and unique design elements. These included a beautiful V-shaped grille and “ribbon” bumpers. This car had style in abundance. Every detail showed a commitment to a premium look. It was a beautiful automobile through and through. The Salon Twelve was a relative bargain for its engineering.
Power and Engineering Excellence
The 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon Phaeton Sedan’s performance was top-tier for its day. It was powered by a Lycoming-built V12 engine. This engine was a part of the “multi-cylinder war” of the era. It was one of the most powerful and luxurious motors available. The V12 was known for its smoothness and quiet operation. It provided excellent power delivery. This car was also equipped with vacuum-boosted brakes. They were a cutting-edge feature. This combination of power and advanced engineering made the Auburn a formidable competitor.
The Provenance of a Classic
This specific 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon Phaeton has a wonderful history. It was discovered in Michigan in 1951. It was then purchased by a well-known early collector. The car eventually made its way to Dr. Barbara Mae Atwood. She was a noted collector herself. She had a passion for classic cars. It was restored under her careful direction by the famous Steve Babinsky. Its restoration was truly a work of art.
A Concours Champion
Dr. Atwood was a very competitive person. She wanted her cars to be the very best. This Auburn was no exception. It won a number of national awards under her care. It earned Second in Class at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. It also received Grand National status from the AACA. The car’s distinctive Woodlite headlamps were a unique feature. They added to its beauty and uniqueness. This car’s success on the show circuit speaks for itself.
From One Collection to Another
After Dr. Atwood’s passing, this Auburn found a new home. It became part of The Andrews Collection. This collection was famous for its quality. It then moved on to its current owner. This person has kept the car as a centerpiece of their collection for years. It has remained in beautiful condition. The car is still a first-rank example of a twelve-cylinder Auburn. Its long line of prestigious caretakers proves its superb quality. This car’s story is a reflection of its enduring appeal.
Summary This 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon Phaeton Sedan is a remarkable piece of automotive history. Its journey from a leftover model to a show-winning classic is compelling. With its powerful V12 engine, unique design, and impeccable provenance, it stands as a testament to American automotive excellence. It is a genuine Salon Twelve that has been cherished and preserved by a series of dedicated owners. It remains a top-tier classic.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only. Specific vehicle features, performance figures, and availability can vary.
Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
