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*******Please make contact first for viewings and inspections as some of our vehicles are NOT located at our Penrose showroom*******

The Auburn, once synonymous with luxury, has maintained its allure over time. Its origins trace back to the Auburn Automobile Company, which evolved from Charles Eckhart's founding of the Eckhart Carriage Company in Auburn, Indiana, in 1874. Transitioning from automotive experiments to a full-fledged business, Frank and Morris Eckhart merged with local car manufacturers, expanding to a larger facility in 1909. However, World War I brought challenges due to material shortages, leading to temporary closure. In 1919, the Eckhart brothers sold the company to Chicago investors, who struggled to make it profitable until enlisting Errett Lobban Cord in 1924. Cord's energetic marketing and leadership couldn't overcome the high costs during the Depression, leading to financial difficulties. Eventually, Cord sold his shares due to stock manipulations and legal issues, marking the end of Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg car production in 1937.

This particular Auburn was first sold in New Zealand in 1935 to Mr. Eric Johnston of Wellington. The Johnston family retained ownership until 1950 when it was sold to Mr. Lyall Pearce of Fielding. The car likely passed through subsequent owners, with a restoration project commencing around 1960 in McLeod Bay, Whangrei, following a sale to Max C. Clarke of Trangi.

Although primarily left-hand drive, Auburn, like other U.S. manufacturers, offered right-hand drive options for specific markets such as South Africa, India, and Australia. The Auburn 654, this model, was the smallest in the range but featured a rumble seat, a 3-speed synchromesh gearbox, and 85 horsepower, making it quite impressive for its time.

The current owner attests to the car's beautiful driving experience, thanks to its 3-speed manual gearbox and powerful hydraulic brakes, offering agile handling and confidence in all conditions. In summary, this Auburn is a remarkable automobile, boasting both stunning aesthetics and superb performance, epitomising the finest examples of its era.

Welcome to Sunday Drive Church Street

Our Church Street Showroom is viewing and test drive by appointment so please make contact first so we can explain the process and create a great experience. You are however welcome to call in 6 days a week to view New Zealands coolest 3 level Car Showroom and of course all the cool cars, you can book appointments live by using the 'book a test drive' button.

With a full time professional finance manager on site and finance facilities with New Zealand's top lenders, we can offer you a Fast, Friendly and Easy process that competes with any lenders or Banks. A full range of accessories and Autosure insurance products are available. Get a pre-approval with our quick online application, use the 'Get Pre-Approval' button.

We are the Nations #1 Consignment Dealer for helping Kiwi drivers sell cool and unique vehicles. If you are looking to sell an American or Australian classic / muscle, European Classic or High end sports car, late model well speced Ute or SUV talk to us today.

"We love selling cool cars"