Season 2, Episode 3 of The Journey documentary series from The JBS Collection explores the history of a rare 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon Cabriolet originally owned by actor James Cagney. The episode, released on February 24, 2026, features owner Jack Boyd Smith Jr. and expert Travis LaVine discussing the vehicle's unique background and Hollywood connection. This Auburn appeared in the 1933 film The Mayor of Hell.
In Elkhart, Indiana, The JBS Collection has released the latest installment of its classic car documentary series, The Journey. Season 2, Episode 3 spotlights a 1934 Auburn 1250 Salon Cabriolet, one of only four produced that year and distinguished by its rear-mounted spare tire, unlike the side-mounted spares on the others.
The vehicle, powered by a 391 cubic-inch Lycoming V12 engine producing 160 horsepower, weighs over 1,000 pounds and includes features like a 3-speed manual transmission, vacuum power booster, 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes, and a dashboard-controlled Dual Ratio rear axle. During the early 1930s multi-cylinder wars, Auburn adopted this engine to compete with luxury brands like Packard and Cadillac. Over two-and-a-half years, approximately 2,250 V12 Auburns were built across six body styles, with many not surviving.
Originally owned by Hollywood actor James Cagney, the car was featured and driven by him in the 1933 film The Mayor of Hell. It received Verification of Originality from the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Club in 1986 during restoration by expert Brian Joseph, confirming its original chassis, engine, drivetrain, and running gear. Among all 1934 Auburn V12 Cabriolets, only two are A.C.D.-certified, including this one, which won First Place at the 1987 Meadowbrook Concours d'Elegance, First Place in the A.C.D. Auburn Open Category that year, and a perfect 100-point score at the 1987 Dearborn CCCA Grand Classic.
Jack Boyd Smith Jr., whose collection ranks No. 82 worldwide according to The Classic Car Trust’s The Key, emphasized the vehicle's story: “As a collector, I’m always on the lookout for automobiles that have that something extra... this vehicle has an incredible one to tell.” He added, “Vehicles like this Auburn... have exceptional histories, and that’s why producing The Journey is so important to me. I want to share these cars, and all these great stories, with automotive enthusiasts all over the world.”
The Journey, which launched in October 2024, pairs Smith Jr. with restoration partner Travis LaVine to discuss preserving rare automobiles. The episode is available at thejbscollection.com/the-journey/season-2/.
