Image of 1934 Auburn Model 1250, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

A Glimpse into the Elegance of Yesteryears: The 1934 Auburn Model 1250

The 1934 Auburn Model 1250 stands as a testament to an era when automobiles were not just modes of transportation but also works of art. Crafted by the Auburn Automobile Company, this classic was born during a time when the automotive industry was undergoing significant transformation. The Great Depression had set a challenging backdrop, yet it was within this context that the Auburn Model 1250 emerged as a beacon of luxury and innovation. A particularly intriguing fact about this model is that it was part of Auburn's strategy to revive its fortunes by offering high style and performance at a reasonable price, which was quite revolutionary at the time.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the Auburn Model 1250 is nothing short of breathtaking. With its sweeping fenders, iconic grille, and pontoon-shaped headlights, it exudes an air of sophistication and grace. The vehicle's interior matched its exterior opulence, featuring high-quality materials such as rich leather upholstery and polished wood accents. Technologically, it boasted advancements like the Startix automatic starting system, which was quite ahead of its time. Color options for the Model 1250 were varied, with Duco finishes that included striking two-tones. Among these, hues like Kewanee Green and Black were popular choices that accentuated its elegant lines. Body styles ranged from sedans to phaetons, but it was perhaps the Convertible Coupe that became most emblematic of the model's allure.

Historical Significance

The Auburn Model 1250's impact on automotive design was profound. It set a new standard for what could be expected from an American luxury car in terms of both aesthetics and performance. Its straight-eight engine and innovative features like the aforementioned Startix system distinguished it from competitors, cementing its place in automotive history.

Performance and Handling

Underneath the hood lay an impressive 252 cubic inch Lycoming straight-eight engine that propelled the Auburn to commendable speeds for its time. The car could achieve a top speed nearing 100 mph—a remarkable feat in the '30s—with acceleration that could push it from 0 to 60 mph in around 15 seconds. On the road, drivers praised its smooth handling characteristics, with a ride quality that absorbed bumps gracefully and remained composed on windy roads. The symphony of its engine provided an auditory thrill matched only by the tactile feedback through its elegant steering wheel.

Ownership Experience

The Auburn Model 1250 served various roles ranging from a daily driver for the well-to-do, to a coveted show car, and occasionally even found itself on racetracks. Maintenance is typical of cars from this period—requiring some mechanical know-how—but overall reliability is solid given proper care. Parts can be scarce but are treasured by enthusiasts dedicated to preserving these automotive jewels.

Fun Facts

Among trivia enthusiasts, the Auburn Model 1250 is known for its limited production run which adds to its exclusivity. While exact production numbers are hard to pin down, estimates suggest that fewer than 1,000 units were produced. Celebrities and socialites of the era were often seen behind the wheel, adding to its allure. Criticisms were few but did include notes on fuel consumption—a minor quibble in light of its many virtues.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved or expertly restored Auburn Model 1250 can fetch anywhere from mid-six figures up to over a million dollars depending on provenance and condition. Rarity is unquestionable; finding one on the market is an event celebrated by collectors worldwide. As with many classics of this caliber, values have generally appreciated over time as these vehicles become more cherished with each passing year.

Conclusion

The 1934 Auburn Model 1250 remains an enduring symbol of automotive excellence from an era long past. Its combination of style, innovation, and performance continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. As we look back on this gleaming jewel of American automotive history, we are reminded that true elegance is timeless.

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Accessory Floor Mat - 12"X17"-AC 14Accessory Floor Mat - made of high quality black rubber with molded original emblem. Also designed to be sewn into new carpets. 12"X17", Each

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9-1/4", Each-AP 24Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9-1/4", Each

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3-7/8" long. Pair-CB 21Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3-7/8" long. Pair

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Door Bumper. Exact reproduction-DB 14-ADoor Bumper. Exact reproduction. 1-3/16" high X 1-9/16" wide X 9/16" thick. Each

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Hood Corners. Made of all rubber. No cut-away on back side-HC 27Hood Corners. Made of all rubber. No cut-away on back side. 7/8" X 1-1/4". Pair

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Headlight Pads. 3-3/8" wide X 9-7/8" long. Pair R&L-MP 100Headlight Pads. 3-3/8" wide X 9-7/8" long. Pair R&L

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Windshield Base Pad for the Speedster. Made in three pieces-MP 100-AWindshield Base Pad for the Speedster. Made in three pieces. 9-3/4" long projection, 2'3" long overall. Each

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Top Center Post Pads, for Phaeton-MP 104Top Center Post Pads, for Phaeton. 2-1/8" wide X 2-3/8" long. Pair R&L

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Bottom Center Post Pads, for Phaeton. Pair R&L-MP 104-BBottom Center Post Pads, for Phaeton. Pair R&L

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Windshield Base Pad. Made in two pieces-MP 105Windshield Base Pad. Made in two pieces. 3-1/4" wide at end X 1' 9-5/8" long. Each

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Tail-light Bracket Pads. 2-3/4" wide X 3-1/4" long. Pair-MP 110Tail-light Bracket Pads. 2-3/4" wide X 3-1/4" long. Pair

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Trunk Hinge Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 6" long. Set-MP 110-BTrunk Hinge Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 6" long. Set

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Door Handle Pads. 1-3/4" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair-MP 110-CDoor Handle Pads. 1-3/4" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Trunk Handle Pad. 1-5/8" wide X 2-1/4" long. Each-MP 110-DTrunk Handle Pad. 1-5/8" wide X 2-1/4" long. Each

1934 Auburn Model 1250 Rumble Seat Step-Plate Bracket Pad-MP 110-ERumble Seat Step-Plate Bracket Pad. 3-1/4" wide X 5-7/8" long. Each