The original Auburn speedster, which was adapted from a Duesenberg show car bodied by McFarlan, was a performance icon that was advertised as “the biggest package in the world for the price.” It became a legend in its own time as it sold for under $1,000 but offered a remarkable top speed of 100 mph, thanks to special chassis and engine modifications unique to this model.

Not only did it make everything else look old-fashioned overnight, but it also had an emphasis on open-air performance for two passengers, making it the only true American sports car of its time.

The example offered here, the 8-90 or “Little Eight” model of 1929, is believed to have been restored in the late 1980s or early 1990s, with steel speedster bodywork evoking the original design, including its striking two-tone paint treatment in maroon and ivory.

At one time offered by Oliver Classics of New York, it was later acquired by Charles J.

Noto, who had admired the Auburn speedsters for many years and sought to ...