Image of 1934 Auburn Model 850y, sourced from www.bransonauction.com , Image Link.

A Gleaming Jewel of the 1930s: The 1934 Auburn Model 850Y

The year is 1934, and the Auburn Automobile Company has just rolled out a masterpiece that would etch its name in automotive history – the Auburn Model 850Y. This luxurious vehicle emerged from an era where style and substance blended seamlessly, and it was manufactured by a company renowned for innovation and elegance. At a time when America was grappling with the Great Depression, the Auburn Model 850Y stood as a beacon of opulence and advanced engineering. A fascinating tidbit about this car is that despite its grandeur, it was marketed as an affordable luxury, which allowed a broader audience to experience its magnificence.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the Auburn Model 850Y exudes a timeless charm with its sweeping lines and imposing grille. The vehicle's silhouette was a harmonious blend of art deco styling and aerodynamic efficiency. Inside, passengers were treated to an interior that showcased exceptional craftsmanship. The use of high-quality materials such as rich leather upholstery and polished wood accents spoke volumes about the car's luxury pedigree. Technologically, it boasted features that were ahead of its time, including a Startix automatic starting system and a Columbia dual-ratio rear axle for improved performance.

Color options for the Auburn Model 850Y ranged from deep, sophisticated hues to vibrant tones that accentuated its elegant curves. Among these, the Salon Brougham in black with red accents was particularly sought after. The car came in various body styles including phaetons, sedans, and speedsters, but it was the Boattail Speedster that became an iconic symbol of this model's allure.

Historical Significance

The Auburn Model 850Y's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It set new standards in combining affordability with luxury, challenging the notion that opulence was reserved for the wealthiest consumers. Its design language influenced countless vehicles that followed, making it a pivotal model in shaping the future of car aesthetics.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stunning exterior, the Auburn Model 850Y packed a robust Lycoming V8 engine that propelled it to impressive speeds for its time. While exact figures vary, top speeds were reported to be around 100 mph—a remarkable feat in the 1930s. The car's handling characteristics were equally commendable; it navigated through challenging roads with grace and stability. Drivers often praised the visceral experience of driving this car—the throaty roar of the engine, the solid feel of the steering wheel, and the smoothness of its ride.

Ownership Experience

The Auburn Model 850Y found its place not just as a daily driver but also as a coveted show car and even made appearances on racetracks. Its reliability was notable for the era, though modern owners should expect to invest time and resources into maintenance due to its age and sophistication. Nevertheless, those who own one today can attest to its enduring charm and performance.

Fun Facts

This classic has graced many collections over time, including those of celebrities like Nicholas Cage. Although not record-breaking in terms of speed by today's standards, it held its own admirably in endurance tests back in its heyday. Criticisms are few but include notes on its then-innovative features now being outdated by modern conveniences.

Collector's Information

Today, an original 1934 Auburn Model 850Y can fetch anywhere from mid-six figures to over a million dollars at auction depending on condition and provenance. Production numbers were limited; estimates suggest only several hundred were made—adding to their rarity and allure among collectors. As with many classics of this caliber, values have generally appreciated over time.

Conclusion

The 1934 Auburn Model 850Y is more than just a vintage car; it's an emblematic piece of automotive artistry that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world. Its blend of design excellence, innovative features for its time, and thrilling performance make it a prized possession for any collector fortunate enough to call one their own.

1934 Auburn Model 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y Bottom Center Post Pads, for Phaeton. Pair R&L-MP 104-BBottom Center Post Pads, for Phaeton. Pair R&L

1934 Auburn Model 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y 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 850Y Rumble Seat Step-Plate Bracket Pad-MP 110-ERumble Seat Step-Plate Bracket Pad. 3-1/4" wide X 5-7/8" long. Each