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The Auburn Cabin Speedster stands as a remarkable automotive creation that captivates enthusiasts with its outrageous design and unique history. Crafted in 1928 for display at new car shows, this singular vehicle featured a powerful 115 hp Lycoming straight eight engine mounted on an Auburn 8-90 chassis. The body, possibly designed by Auburn's factory designer Alan H. Leamy, was constructed by Griswold of Detroit, boasting an unconventional aluminum-over-ash framing.
Despite its production of only one unit, the car managed to make a notable appearance at the New York Auto Show in late 1928 before heading to the Los Angeles Auto Show in early 1929. Unfortunately, tragedy struck at the latter event when a fire engulfed the exhibition tent, resulting in the destruction of the Auburn Cabin Speedster along with numerous other display vehicles.
Decades later, in 1984, Dr. Peter C. Kesling of Laporte, Indiana, commissioned the production of a replica Auburn Cabin Speedster. This meticulous recreation, constructed using components from production 1929 Auburn Automobiles, faithfully replicated the original design and specifications. The chassis, ingeniously crafted from the rear portions of two frames with one portion inverted, achieved a six-inch drop compared to the standard 1929 Auburn, enhancing its visual appeal.
The recreation process involved extensive research and collaboration, with Dr. Kesling drawing inspiration from photographs and toys to recreate the lost masterpiece. Utilizing an ash frame, aluminum body, and an eight-cylinder engine producing 115 horsepower, the replica stayed true to the essence of the original Auburn Cabin Speedster. Notably, the body construction followed the original full-size body drawings preserved by Auburn Historian Randy Ema, ensuring an authentic recreation of this iconic vehicle.
Dr. Kesling's dedication to preserving automotive history and his meticulous recreation efforts culminated in the resurrection of the Auburn Cabin Speedster, allowing enthusiasts to marvel at its unique design and storied legacy for generations to come.
Source: Auburn
