USA vs USA — 1933 vs 1929
| Silver Arrow V12 | Model SJ Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 320 hp |
| Torque | 340 lb-ft | 490 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,570 cc | 6,882 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.0 sec | 8.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 135 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 5,600 lbs | 5,500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,531 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Length | 5,690 mm | 5,588 mm |
| Units Produced | 5 | 36 |
| Original MSRP | $10,000 | $13,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $5,000,000 | $8,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow V12 excels in greater rarity, better value, while the 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Ultra-Luxury enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow V12 and 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged is one for the ages. These Pre-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 320 hp compared to 175 hp, a 145-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow uses a V12 displacing 7,570 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 14.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5 units built, the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow V12 is considerably scarcer than the Duesenberg Model SJ's 36 examples.