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07/06/2025 2:15 pm
Nothing says "Hollywood" more than this 1935 Auburn 851 Boat-Tailed Speedster. This Gordon Buehrig design. who also designed the coffin-nose Cord 810, offered celebrity class looks and performance through its supercharged 4.6 liter flat 8 that developed 150 bhp through a dual speed rear axle that could run at either 3:1 or 4.5:1. For the sportsman, a special compartment would house a set of golf clubs. Sadly all Auburn production ceased by 1937. FM's model, originally released in white with red accents and top, is fairly ancient tech with its 2-D applique dash and isn't completely accurate, but it certainly captures the essence of that beautiful machine. FM later released a gussied up repaint in blue and gold that was too pretty to pass up on despite the fact that a similar car may not exist.
07/06/2025 4:34 pm
Great read and pictures Rich. The blue gold version is Franklin anniversary car in the FM colors. There is also black green car. FM sold 15000 white modes, hence the abundance of cheap models on eBay. Raffi has said that the black version was relatively rare, although it is not difficult to find, nor expensive. I own a beautiful red-brown color sample, at least 2 of them exist.
07/06/2025 7:26 pm
Those are gorgeous Rich. Earlier than I collect, but I still appreciate their beauty. 💯
Geoff Jowett and John Napoli reacted
08/06/2025 12:51 am
One of my original purchases from the local FM when they were operating here in Australia, 36, 37 years ago? Must have seen a black/green one at some stage but cant recall it. Thanks Rich, and Chav for the further info. Natural light on the white model is really effective Rich
This post was modified 11 months ago 2 times by Geoff Jowett
Rich Sufficool and John Napoli reacted
08/06/2025 5:12 am
I have all three colors that were issued. When this model first came out in white, I thought it was fabulous and it wasn't later when technology ramped up that we had a comparison making some models look low tech. No matter, these models look great on my display cases.
08/06/2025 7:27 am
Not something I would collect, but I enjoy your pictures.
08/06/2025 7:35 am
A stunningly beautiful design; one of the best of its era.
Geoff Jowett and Rich Sufficool reacted