The 1936 Auburn Model 6-654: A Testament to Pre-War Elegance

The 1936 Auburn Model 6-654 stands as a shining beacon of pre-war automotive design, embodying an era when cars were not just modes of transportation but rolling sculptures. Born from the creative minds at the Auburn Automobile Company, this classic car emerged during a time when the United States was grappling with the Great Depression. Despite economic hardships, Auburn managed to produce vehicles that were both luxurious and attainable. A particularly intriguing fact about the Auburn 6-654 is its affiliation with the notorious art deco movement, which left an indelible mark on its design language.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1936 Auburn Model 6-654 is a visual feast, with sweeping lines that seem to be in perpetual motion, even at a standstill. The car's long hood and elegant fenders exude a sense of speed and sophistication. Inside, occupants are treated to an opulent cabin featuring high-quality fabrics and meticulously crafted wood accents. For its time, the Auburn was at the forefront of innovation, boasting features such as hydraulic brakes—a significant advancement in vehicle safety.

Color options for the Model 6-654 were varied, with rich hues that complemented its luxurious nature. Popular choices often highlighted the car's dramatic curves and accentuated its presence on the road. Among body styles, the convertible phaeton was particularly iconic, offering a blend of open-air freedom and timeless style.

Historical Significance

The Auburn Model 6-654's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It challenged prevailing trends by offering an affordable yet premium vehicle during tough economic times. Its design language influenced countless models that followed, leaving a legacy that can still be felt in modern automotive aesthetics.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its beautiful exterior lay a competent powertrain capable of propelling the Auburn to impressive speeds for its era. With a top speed that flirted with the 100 mph mark and acceleration figures that could leave contemporaries in its dust, the Model 6-654 was no slouch on the road. Handling was equally commendable; drivers often praised its ability to navigate through challenging conditions with grace—a testament to its well-engineered chassis and suspension system.

Driving the Auburn was an experience akin to conducting an orchestra; every blip of the throttle produced a symphony from under the hood, while each turn of the wheel brought forth a responsive dance from the car's poised frame.

Ownership Experience

The Model 6-654 was versatile enough to serve as a daily driver or as an elegant showpiece at concours events. Maintenance and reliability were on par for vehicles of its age, with many owners finding joy in tinkering under the hood or displaying their pride and joy at classic car gatherings.

Fun Facts

This classic has graced both private collections and silver screens alike, with some models having been owned by Hollywood elite. While not known for breaking speed records, it certainly set benchmarks in style and affordability in luxury cars. Criticisms were few but often pointed towards its relatively modest power output compared to some high-end competitors.

Collector's Information

Today, the rarity of the 1936 Auburn Model 6-654 makes it a coveted piece among collectors. Production numbers were limited due to economic factors of the time; it's estimated that only a few thousand were made. As for value range, pristine examples can fetch high five to six-figure sums at auction, with prices appreciating over time due to their scarcity and historical significance.

Conclusion

The 1936 Auburn Model 6-654 is more than just a classic car; it's a rolling testament to an era when beauty and innovation could coexist even in challenging times. As we look back on this automotive masterpiece, we're reminded of how far we've come—and how much we owe to these pioneers of design and engineering.

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 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

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9-1/4", Each-AP 24Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9-1/4", Each

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 18Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 3-1/2" wide X 5-1/4" long, with 1-7/8" long inner slot. Pair

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 Front Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 19Front Bumper Arm Grommets. 5" wide X 7-1/8" long, with 1-7/8" long inner slot. Pair

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 19-ARear Bumper Arm Grommets. 4-7/8" wide X 6-3/8" long, with 1-7/8" long inner slot. Pair

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets (for Passenger models)-BGK 18Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets (for Passenger models). Front: 5" W X 7-1/8" L, with 1-7/8" long inner slot. Rear: 3-1/2" W X 5-1/4" L with, 1-7/8" long inner slot. 4 piece set.

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 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

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 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

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 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

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 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

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 Bottom Center Post Pads, for Phaeton. Pair R&L-MP 104-BBottom Center Post Pads, for Phaeton. Pair R&L

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 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

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 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

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 Trunk Hinge Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 6" long. Set-MP 110-BTrunk Hinge Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 6" long. Set

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 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

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 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

1936 Auburn Model 6-654 Rumble Seat Step-Plate Bracket Pad-MP 110-ERumble Seat Step-Plate Bracket Pad. 3-1/4" wide X 5-7/8" long. Each