USA vs USA — 1928 vs 1935
| Model J Model J Dual-Cowl Phaeton | Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 380 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,882 cc | 6,882 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.0 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 116 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 0.0 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 5,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,607 mm | 3,988 mm |
| Length | 5,690 mm | 5,790 mm |
| Units Produced | 481 | 36 |
| Original MSRP | — | $17,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $5,000,000 | $8,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1928 Duesenberg Model J Model J Dual-Cowl Phaeton excels in higher top speed, better value, while the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton stands out for quicker acceleration, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Tracing the evolution of the Duesenberg Model J from 1928 to 1935 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 Model J Dual-Cowl Phaeton producing 265 hp and the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton delivering 265 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Duesenberg Model J uses a Inline-8 DOHC 32V displacing 6,882 cc, while the Duesenberg Model J relies on a Inline-8 DOHC with 6,882 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 13.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 36 units built, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton is considerably scarcer than the Duesenberg Model J's 481 examples. On the collector market, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton commands a significant premium over the 1928 Duesenberg Model J Model J Dual-Cowl Phaeton, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.