Picture this: you’re driving down the road in a car that’s so rare, that only 535 where ever made and to add to the exclusivity, only 7 were sold in the entire province of Ontario! With its impressive straight 8 cylinder Lycoming engine, 3-speed manual transmission, and a weight of 4,900 pounds, it’s easy to see why this 1930’s Auburn turns heads wherever it goes.
But what really sets this Auburn apart is its history. When Don Beneteau purchased this car in 1960, it was a far cry from the restored beauty we know today. It was painted yellow with black trim and had a makeshift top made from a comforter. But Don saw something special in this car and dedicated his life to restoring it to its former glory.
Over the years, he made countless repairs and restorations, including manufacturing new spoked wheels and hand-making the bumper dust caps. He drove it in countless local parades with his family waving at the crowds. And when he finally had it restored back to its original factory condition, he donated it to the Canadian Transportation Museum, where it’s now the signature car and featured on the logo.
So the next time you see a 1930 Auburn, remember the incredible story of Don Beneteau and his dedication to preserving this piece of Canadian automotive history.
