USA vs USA — 1928 vs 1929
| Model J SJ Supercharged | Model SJ Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 320 hp | 320 hp |
| Torque | 450 lb-ft | 490 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,882 cc | 6,882 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 8.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 135 mph |
| Weight | 5,500 lbs | 5,500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,620 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Length | 5,690 mm | 5,588 mm |
| Units Produced | 481 | 36 |
| Original MSRP | $8,500 | $13,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $15,000,000 | $8,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
The 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1928 Duesenberg Model J SJ Supercharged counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Tracing the evolution of the Duesenberg Model J from 1928 to 1929 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Duesenberg. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1928 Duesenberg Model J SJ Supercharged producing 320 hp and the 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged delivering 320 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Duesenberg Model J uses a Inline-8 DOHC Supercharged displacing 6,882 cc, while the Duesenberg Model SJ relies on a Straight-8 Supercharged with 6,882 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged edges ahead at 8.0 seconds versus 8.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 36 units built, the 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged is considerably scarcer than the Duesenberg Model J's 481 examples. On the collector market, the 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged commands a significant premium over the 1928 Duesenberg Model J SJ Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.