Auburn produced just 887 Boattail Speedsters from 1928 through 1936, so replicas such as the Nice Price or No Dice candidate featured today easily outnumber the genuine articles. The question is whether this stylish copy justifies its asking price.

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Imitation Game

Oscar Wilde observed that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery mediocrity can offer greatness. Among automobiles the copies frequently surpass the originals in number. The 427 Cobra, Porsche 356 Speedster, and Auburn Boattail Speedster all demonstrate this pattern. Designed just before the Great Depression and discontinued amid the economic downturn, the Auburn Speedster ranks among the finest cars ever built. Surviving originals now command more than half a million dollars when they appear for sale, spurring a thriving market for replicas built on contemporary chassis and powertrains.

The example shown here was constructed by Speedster Motorcar of Florida and completed in late 1999 according to its build records. The company continues to produce Auburn replicas today.

Modern Mechanicals Beneath Classic Lines

While the bodywork faithfully reproduces the Auburn design, the chassis and drivetrain are ordinary components readily serviced at any local shop. A 350 cubic inch Chevrolet V8 sits beneath the hood. The supercharger badge and side exhausts are cosmetic only; the engine is naturally aspirated and exhausts through conventional pipes. It appears to draw fuel through a single barrel carburetor and lacks an air cleaner in the photographs. The seller describes the transmission as a Powerglide two speed automatic, yet the donor vehicle was a 1976 Chevrolet, suggesting the unit is more likely a Turbo Hydramatic three speed. The front and rear suspensions likewise originated from that Chevrolet, as did the steering column visible in the cabin.

Exterior Polish and Interior Compromises

The body presents in strong condition, finished in Maserati Yellow with red accents and wire wheels shod in wide whitewall tires that may benefit from cleaning or replacement. Chrome trim remains straight and bright. From the outside the car could pass for an original Speedster. Inside, however, the larger steering column, an awkwardly placed dome light, and a modern stereo immediately reveal the replica nature. Bucket seats and a column shifter, both likely from the 1970s Chevrolet donor, replace the bench seat and floor shift of a genuine Auburn. None of these alterations ruin the overall effect. The seller states the car is turnkey, runs, and drives without trouble, describing it as a conversation starter and weekend cruiser that turns heads.

Evaluating the $48,000 Price

The title status is not specified in the listing. The vehicle is not suited for daily use given its dramatic proportions and limited weather protection. It does function well as rolling sculpture suitable for car shows, parades, or simply adding presence to any setting. At $48,000 the replica offers a classic visual experience for a fraction of the cost of an authentic Speedster. Whether that sum represents fair value or an overpayment for the illusion remains the central question for potential buyers.