At $48,000, Is This 1935 Auburn Speedster Replica a Real Deal?

A $48,000 Auburn Speedster replica on Facebook Marketplace is drawing attention for its bold price tag, but does it deliver real value?

The car is a continuation model built by Speedster Motorcar in Florida, delivered in late 1999, and styled as a 1935 Auburn Boattail Speedster.

While the exterior is a meticulous homage to the classic Auburn, the underpinnings are far more modern—and far less exotic.

Under the hood sits a naturally aspirated 350 cubic-inch Chevy V8, paired with what the seller calls a “power glide” two-speed automatic, though it’s likely a Turbo-Hydramatic three-speed sourced from a 1976 Chevy.

The drivetrain, front and rear suspensions, and steering column all trace back to that same donor vehicle.

The replica rides on wire wheels wrapped in wide white-wall tires, finished in Maserati Yellow with red trim, and features chrome accents that gleam.

But the cabin reveals its true nature: modern bucket seats, a column shifter, and a dash-mounted stereo and cabin light that clash with the vintage aesthetic.

The seller bills it as a turnkey car that runs and drives without issue, calling it “more than a car—it’s a conversation starter, a weekend weapon, and a head-turning statement you can take out in the real world.” The asking price of $48,000 is roughly one-tenth the cost of an original Auburn Speedster, which can fetch over half a million dollars when they surface. But is this replica worth it?

Original Auburn Speedsters are rare—only 887 Boattail Speedsters were built between 1928 and 1936—so replicas vastly outnumber the real thing.

This one’s mechanical simplicity and modern donor parts make it far easier to maintain than a vintage Auburn, but they also strip away much of the original’s mystique and exclusivity.

The car’s proportions are startling, and its minimal weather protection makes it impractical for daily use.

Still, for enthusiasts who want the look of a classic Auburn without the million-dollar price tag, this could be a compelling alternative.

The title status isn’t specified in the ad, and Facebook Marketplace listings often lack critical details.

Ultimately, whether $48,000 is fair depends on what you value: authenticity and rarity, or the thrill of driving a head-turning replica. The car is listed out of Lake Oswego, Oregon.