Peter Heydon of Ann Arbor, Michigan with the1927 Duesenberg Model X Boat Roadster he donated to the permanent
collection of  the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum. (Photos contributed)

AUBURN, Ind. (WOWO): A donation to the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Musuem helps fill a historical gap at the DeKalb County institution.

Officials announced they've received a 1927 Duesenberg Model X Boat Roaster. They say its significant because it shows the evolution of design and innovation from the Model A Duesenberg and the Auburn Boat Tail Speedster.

In a press release from the A-C-D Museum, Laura Brinkman, Executive Director of the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum said “The 1927 Duesenberg Model X Boat Roadster is the rarest of the rare.”

The 1927 Duesenberg Model X Boat Roadster is a prototype built by Fred and August Duesenberg with coachwork by McFarlan of Connorsville, Indiana. In order to help with sluggish sales in 1926, Duesenberg, Inc. attempted to venture into production cars and made thirteen prototype Model X chassis, four of which exist today.

However, after purchasing Duesenberg, Inc. later in 1926, E. L. Cord had a different vision for the Duesenberg automobile and the remaining Model X chassis were converted for the upcoming Model J, or scrapped.

The Model X Boat Roadster was a one-off design made for the 1927 New York Auto Salon.

“This automobile showcases a crucial change in automotive history and design and in the public understanding of the importance of manufacturing a car with both racing performance and elegant style,” said Aaron Warkentin, curator.

The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum houses more than 120 classic, antique, vintage and special interest cars are on display at Auburn facility.