1936 Auburn 852 Boattail by Speedster Motorcar

The 1936 Auburn 852 Boattail Speedster stands among the most celebrated automobiles ever produced in the United States. With its dramatic curves, supercharged performance, and unmistakable art-deco elegance, the original Auburn Boattail became a symbol of speed, luxury, and daring design during the golden age of American motoring.

Today, as authentic examples command multi-million-dollar prices and remain largely confined to museums and elite collections, companies like Speedster Motorcar have played a crucial role in keeping this legendary design alive. The 1936 Auburn 852 Boattail by Speedster Motorcar is not merely a replica—it is a carefully crafted homage that captures the spirit, appearance, and emotional impact of the original while delivering modern reliability and drivability.

This article explores the history of the original Auburn 852 Boattail, the craftsmanship of Speedster Motorcar, design authenticity, performance, ownership experience, and cultural significance of this remarkable recreation.

The Auburn 852 Boattail: An American Automotive Masterpiece

To appreciate Speedster Motorcar’s creation, one must first understand the importance of the original 1936 Auburn 852 Boattail Speedster.

Produced during the final years of the Auburn Automobile Company, the 852 Boattail represented the pinnacle of the brand’s ambition. Auburn, part of the legendary Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg (ACD) group, sought to push boundaries in both styling and performance. At a time when many luxury vehicles were conservative and upright, Auburn embraced low, flowing lines inspired by aircraft and speedboats.

The original 852 SC featured:

A supercharged straight-eight engine
Power output exceeding 150 horsepower
Top speeds over 100 mph
Dramatic boattail rear bodywork
Luxurious interiors with premium materials

The car’s blend of beauty and performance made it an instant icon, but economic challenges and the Great Depression ultimately led to Auburn’s demise. As a result, very few original 852 Boattails were produced, and even fewer survive today.

Why Speedster Motorcar Revived the Auburn 852 Boattail

With originals being extremely rare and prohibitively expensive, Speedster Motorcar recognized a growing desire among enthusiasts to experience this legendary automobile beyond static displays.

The goal was clear:
To recreate the visual drama and emotional presence of the Auburn 852 Boattail while ensuring it could be driven, enjoyed, and maintained in the modern world.

Speedster Motorcar focused on:

Faithful exterior proportions
Authentic period styling
High-quality craftsmanship
Modern mechanical reliability

The result is a car that honors history without being constrained by it.

Exterior Design: A Faithful Recreation of a Timeless Shape

The most striking element of the 1936 Auburn 852 Boattail by Speedster Motorcar is its exterior design. At first glance, it is nearly indistinguishable from the original.

Signature Boattail Styling

The tapered rear deck—resembling the hull of a speedboat—remains the defining feature. Speedster Motorcar carefully recreates:

The elongated hood and low roofline
Sweeping pontoon fenders
Sculpted body lines flowing toward the rear
Large chrome grille with vertical bars
Side-mounted exhaust pipes (depending on configuration)

High-quality fiberglass or composite materials are often used to replicate the shape while keeping weight manageable and durability high.

Paint and Finish

Customers can choose from period-correct colors or custom finishes, often paired with:

Chrome bumpers and trim
Polished grille and accents
Authentic badging and detailing

The craftsmanship ensures the car commands attention at shows, rallies, and on the open road.

Interior Craftsmanship: Vintage Elegance Meets Modern Comfort

Inside, the Speedster Motorcar Auburn 852 Boattail captures the essence of 1930s luxury motoring.

Period-Inspired Design

The cabin features:

Hand-stitched leather seats
Wood-rim steering wheel
Art-deco gauge cluster
Metal dashboard accents
Carpeted floors with vintage patterns

The seating position and dashboard layout reflect the original car’s driver-focused design.

Modern Enhancements

While the appearance remains classic, discreet modern upgrades often include:

Improved electrical systems
Reliable instrumentation
Optional climate control
Enhanced seating comfort

These updates make the car suitable for longer drives without compromising authenticity.

Mechanical Foundation: Modern Power, Classic Spirit

One of the most significant differences between the original Auburn and the Speedster Motorcar version lies beneath the bodywork.

Engine Options

Rather than attempting to recreate the rare and complex supercharged straight-eight, Speedster Motorcar typically uses:

Modern V8 engines
Proven American powerplants
Fuel-injected or carbureted setups

These engines provide strong performance, reliability, and easy servicing.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Owners may choose between:

Automatic transmissions for relaxed cruising
Manual gearboxes for a more engaging driving experience

Rear-wheel drive preserves the classic sports-car feel.

Suspension and Braking

To ensure safety and comfort:

Modern suspension systems improve ride quality
Disc brakes provide strong, predictable stopping power
Updated steering components enhance control

The result is a car that feels confident in modern traffic while maintaining vintage character.

Driving Experience: Theatre on Wheels

Driving the 1936 Auburn 852 Boattail by Speedster Motorcar is an emotional experience.

The long hood stretches dramatically ahead
The engine’s sound echoes through the open cockpit
Wind and road sensations create a visceral connection
The car attracts attention wherever it goes

Unlike an original Auburn—often too valuable to drive—this recreation invites frequent use, transforming every outing into an event.

Craftsmanship and Build Quality

Speedster Motorcar is known for its attention to detail and build consistency. Each Auburn 852 Boattail recreation is assembled with:

Careful panel alignment
High-quality interior materials
Thoughtful integration of modern components

Owners often describe the car as coachbuilt, reflecting the bespoke feel once common in prewar luxury automobiles.

Cultural Impact and Presence

Few vehicles generate the reaction that an Auburn Boattail does. The Speedster Motorcar version continues this tradition.

The car regularly appears at:

Classic car shows
Vintage motoring events
Parades and rallies
Private collections and exhibitions

Even those unfamiliar with automotive history immediately recognize the car as something extraordinary, reinforcing its timeless appeal.

Ownership Experience

Owning a 1936 Auburn 852 Boattail by Speedster Motorcar offers a unique balance between history and practicality.

Advantages of Ownership

Dramatic prewar design without fragility
Ability to drive without fear of damaging a priceless artifact
Easier maintenance and parts availability
Customization options to suit personal taste

For many enthusiasts, it represents the ultimate way to experience a legendary classic.

Market Value and Accessibility

While authentic Auburn 852 Boattails are virtually unobtainable, Speedster Motorcar recreations offer a more accessible alternative.

Prices vary based on specification and customization
Significantly more affordable than originals
Strong demand due to timeless design

Though not purchased purely as investments, these cars retain value because of their craftsmanship and enduring desirability.

Authenticity vs. Enjoyment

Purists may debate the merits of replicas, but many collectors recognize their importance.

Speedster Motorcar’s Auburn 852 Boattail:

Preserves an iconic design
Keeps automotive history visible and alive
Allows enthusiasts to experience the car dynamically

Rather than competing with originals, it complements them by ensuring the Auburn legacy continues beyond museums.

The Auburn Legacy in the Modern Era

The continued popularity of the Auburn Boattail—especially through recreations like Speedster Motorcar’s—demonstrates the power of timeless design.

In a world dominated by digital interfaces and aerodynamic sameness, the Auburn’s art-deco curves, mechanical presence, and emotional appeal feel refreshingly human.

Conclusion

The 1936 Auburn 852 Boattail by Speedster Motorcar is more than a replica—it is a celebration of one of America’s greatest automotive achievements. By combining faithful design, skilled craftsmanship, and modern mechanical reliability, Speedster Motorcar has created a car that allows enthusiasts to experience the drama, elegance, and excitement of a prewar icon.

While original Auburn 852 Boattails remain rare treasures, this recreation ensures that the car’s spirit continues to thrive on modern roads. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, it represents the perfect fusion of history, beauty, and drivability, making it one of the most compelling classic recreations ever produced.

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