Auburn 851

vs

BMW 328

USA vs Germany — 1935 vs 1936

Auburn 851 (1935)
BMW 328 (1936)
Specifications
851 Speedster Supercharged328 Roadster Mille Miglia
Horsepower150 hp80 hp
Torque230 lb-ft101 lb-ft
Engine Size4,587 cc1,971 cc
0-60 mph15.5 sec10.0 sec
Top Speed104 mph96 mph
¼ Mile0.0 sec17.5 sec
Weight1,830 lbs
Wheelbase3,251 mm2,400 mm
Length5,207 mm3,900 mm
Units Produced464
Value (Excellent)$500,000$2,500,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity9/1010/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1935 Auburn 851 Speedster Supercharged offers more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia counters with quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When USA engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1935 Auburn 851 Speedster Supercharged and 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1935 Auburn 851 Speedster Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 80 hp, a 70-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Auburn 851 uses a Inline-8 L-head Supercharged displacing 4,587 cc, while the BMW 328 relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 1,971 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia edges ahead at 10.0 seconds versus 15.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia commands a significant premium over the 1935 Auburn 851 Speedster Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1936 BMW 328 Roadster Mille Miglia rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.