Auburn, Cadillac or Packard? The PreWar Choice at Amelia Island 2026

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The PreWar selections at Broad Arrow’s Amelia Island auction may not be numerous, yet their quality is nothing short of impressive. It has now been four years since Broad Arrow became the official auction house of the prestigious Florida concours. While the offering spans cars from every decade and corner of the globe, we focus here on three of our favorite American pre-war models.

1929 Auburn 120 Eight “Boattail” Speedster

Under the leadership of E.L. Cord, Auburn evolved into the styling icon of the late twenties and early thirties. This model, powered by its robust Lycoming straight-eight and clothed in dramatic coachwork penned by Alan Leamy, is regarded as one of America’s first true sports cars. Just 55 examples were built.

This particular chassis, once owned by boxing champion Johnny Risko, remained hidden in a barn for decades before undergoing a concours-level restoration by the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Company. Multiple national award winner and finished in royal blue with silver accents, this is a rare, competitive and exceptionally charismatic Full Classic with a unique story to tell.

1931 Cadillac Series 370A V-12 Fleetwood Five-Passenger Phaeton

This 1931 Cadillac V-12 Phaeton demonstrates just how uncompromisingly Cadillac raised the bar in the early thirties. With its technically sophisticated V-12, closely related to the legendary V-16, it embodies the pinnacle of pre-war luxury and innovation. This rare Fleetwood Phaeton (only 128 built) combines matching-numbers originality with a concours-awarded history and an impressive restoration.

The striking orange-brown color scheme and rich leather interior make it as stylish as it is imposing. A thoroughbred Classic Era automobile that not only commands admiration, but also invites to be driven, exactly as Cadillac once intended.

1909 Packard Eighteen Five-Passenger Phaeton

As an enthusiast of early automobiles and touring coachwork, I was instantly captivated by this 1909 Packard Eighteen Five-Passenger Phaeton. Originally delivered as a Runabout, this chassis took a remarkable turn when Packard stylist Dick Teague discovered unused factory designs for a sportier configuration. The result is a one-off Phaeton based on original drawings, featuring elegant, lighter lines and distinctive Brass Era detailing.

Finished in deep maroon with red leather and abundant brass accents, this Packard combines authenticity with touring-friendly refinements. A rare opportunity to drive and display a Packard that unites factory history and individuality in exceptional fashion.

The auction takes place on March 6 and 7, 2026, preceded by preview days during which the public can already admire these exceptional pre-war highlights.

Details:

• Event: The Amelia Auction 2026
• Date: March 6–7, 2026
• Location: Amelia Island, Florida, US
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