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Duesenberg Model J (1935)Bernard Spragg. NZ from Christchurch, New Zealand, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton

1935 — USA

Pre-War (before 1946)Luxury CarAmericanUnder 100 ProducedInvestment GradeMillion Dollar ClubLimited ProductionPre-War Masterpieces
Engine6,882 cc Inline-8 DOHC
Power265 hp
Torque480 lb-ft
Transmission3-speed manual
DrivetrainRWD
Body StylePhaeton
Weight5,600 lbs
0–60 mph10.5 sec
Top Speed115 mph
Production36 units
Original MSRP$17,500
BrakesDrum / Drum
SuspensionSolid axle, semi-elliptic springs / Solid axle, semi-elliptic springs
History

Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton

The 1935-1937 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande stands as America's most prestigious automobile ever built. Powered by a massive 420 cubic inch straight-eight engine producing 265 horsepower, it could reach 115 mph when contemporary cars struggled to reach 70. The LaGrande dual-cowl phaeton body featured two windshields and represented the ultimate in formal open touring. Each car was virtually hand-built with coachwork by master craftsmen, making every example unique.

Buying Guide
$2,500,000 – $8,500,000

Finding a LaGrande phaeton for sale is extraordinarily rare. Verify complete documentation and provenance. Original examples command premium prices while restored cars should show concours-quality workmanship. Engine rebuild costs alone can exceed $150,000.

Production Notes

LaGrande phaetons featured the longest 157-inch wheelbase offered on the Model J chassis. Bodies were typically by coachbuilders like Bohman & Schwartz, Walker-LaGrande, or Rollston. Production was extremely limited with only 36 examples built during the final years of Duesenberg production before the company closed in 1937.