USA vs USA — 1935 vs 1933
| Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton | Silver Arrow | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,882 cc | 7,031 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 115 mph |
| Weight | 5,600 lbs | 5,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,988 mm | 3,556 mm |
| Length | 5,790 mm | 5,690 mm |
| Units Produced | 36 | 5 |
| Original MSRP | $17,500 | $10,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $8,500,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton offers more power, quicker acceleration, while the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow counters with greater rarity, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton and 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow stand as two of the most notable Luxury cars from Pre-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton holds a clear advantage in raw power with 265 hp compared to 175 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Duesenberg Model J uses a Inline-8 DOHC displacing 6,882 cc, while the Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow relies on a V12 OHV with 7,031 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 18.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5 units built, the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow is considerably scarcer than the Duesenberg Model J's 36 examples. On the collector market, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton commands a significant premium over the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.