This may be the earliest Auburn known to exist. It is typical of automobiles in the pre-1910 era with a body configuration of a rear entrance tonneau. There are features of both the Model A Auburn and of the Model B Auburn apparent in this vehicle. The wheelbase is different from either model and may represent a transition from one-cylinder to two-cylinder automobiles. The total production of the Auburn Automobile Company in 1904 was approximately 50 vehicles. Auburn had debuted at the Chicago Auto Show of 1903 and was slowly gaining a reputation as a builder of quality cars in limited numbers. Auburns were being sold in only a few Midwestern states. This vehicle was the first automobile to receive a Federal Conservation Project Support Grant to complete its restoration. Technical: This 1904 Auburn is powered by a two-cylinder opposed, water-cooled engine. With a displacement of 142.6 cubic inches, this motor produces 10 horsepower, which is transferred to the rear wheels by a chain. The wheelbase of this automobile measures 83 inches. The price of this car when new was $1,250.
