1932 Auburn Model 12-160A

Retains its original chassis and body
Formerly owned by noted collectors Bill Harrah and Steve Warner
Displayed at the Pebble Beach Concours dElegance
First in Class at the Des Moines Concours dElegance
Impressive Art Deco styling draped in outstanding colors and paired with noted 12-cylinder power

For 1931, visionary leader E.L. Cord brought on Al Leamy to create innovative styling for the Auburn. Despite the continuing depression, Auburns sales seemed to improve that year, and in 1932, Auburn joined the ranks of Cadillac and Packard in the multi-cylinder market with their very own Lycoming-produced V-12 engine. Packaged with Auburns dual-ratio rear axle, it allowed for these cars to be driven in high-gear ratios to reach higher speeds or in a lower ratio for slower city driving.

Of course, unfortunately, the grips of the Great Depression took hold, and sales weakened for the entire high-end automotive market. Despite excellent looks, superb workmanship and a stellar reputation, Auburns profits continued to drop and 1934 would mark the last Auburn 12 models.

A well-known example within the hobby, this Auburn 12-160A Custom Phaeton Sedan was under the ownership of Steve Warner of Tustin, California in the 1950s. Steve was a prominent historical collector and early owner and steward of noted Auburn automobiles, recognizing their significance before most did. Retaining this example for a number of years, he would then sell this Auburn to William F. Harrah, one of the most prominent car collectors to have lived. Placed in his Las Vegas museum, Harrahs Automobile Collection, this Auburn was on continuous exhibit and remained there for 15 years until Bill Harrahs passing. In 1978, it was sold to Rene Chenier, a California collector. Under his care, he would later commence a comprehensive restoration to its current appearance. The body was refinished in an attractive two-tone blue with a blue canvas top. The interior, similarly, received matching blue leather and Wilton carpets. At this same time, Mr. Chenier subtly upgraded the body with the desirable Salon model trim, which included chrome inserts below the windows, Salon door handles, and polished stainless trim on the hood louvers.

The engine was rebuilt as well, with a focus on long-distance touring. A proper American-LaFrance V-12 engine block that displaces an impressive 520 cubic inches was sourced and placed in this example. Nearly identical in appearance to its stock Auburn block, it displaces over 100 more cubic inches and is a desirable upgrade with its added power. Combined with its three-speed manual transmission with Columbia electric overdrive and dual ratio rear axle, this Auburn 12 is a rare and excellent choice for noted long distance touring events hosted by organizations such as the CCCA, AACA, and ACD Club.

Following its restoration, ownership would be with noted collector Larry Dorcy. During which, he would be invited and display this Auburn 12-160A on the 18th green of the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours dElegance. Later show history includes a First in Class at the Des Moines Concours dElegance in 2014. The current collection would acquire this Auburn 12 years ago, where it has since been professionally maintained and cared for.

Retaining its original chassis, body, and upgraded with desirable period Salon trim, this rare Auburn 12-160A offers an exceptional blend of Art Deco elegance, V-12 performance, and proven touring capability that will certainly be welcomed at future gatherings and tours.