USA vs Germany — 1930 vs 1937
| Speedster 851/852 Supercharged | 328 Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 80 hp |
| Torque | 250 lb-ft | 101 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,586 cc | 1,971 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 15.0 sec | 12.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 96 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 20.0 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 1,830 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,302 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,800 mm | 3,900 mm |
| Units Produced | 500 | 464 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1930 Auburn Speedster 851/852 Supercharged offers more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1937 BMW 328 Roadster 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.
When USA engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1930 Auburn Speedster 851/852 Supercharged and 1937 BMW 328 Roadster embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1930 Auburn Speedster 851/852 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 Speedster uses a Inline-8 L-head Supercharged displacing 4,586 cc, while the BMW 328 relies on a Inline-6 OHV Cross-pushrod hemispherical 12V with 1,971 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1937 BMW 328 Roadster edges ahead at 12.0 seconds versus 15.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1937 BMW 328 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1930 Auburn Speedster 851/852 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1937 BMW 328 Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.