USA vs USA — 1931 vs 1929
| Sixteen Convertible Sedan | Model SJ Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 320 hp |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft | 490 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 8,044 cc | 6,882 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.0 sec | 8.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 135 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 5,300 lbs | 5,500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,556 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Length | 5,588 mm | 5,588 mm |
| Units Produced | 390 | 36 |
| Original MSRP | $5,220 | $13,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,500,000 | $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 more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1931 Marmon Sixteen Convertible Sedan 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.
Among Ultra-Luxury enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1931 Marmon Sixteen Convertible Sedan 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 200 hp, a 120-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Marmon Sixteen uses a V16 displacing 8,044 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 36 units built, the 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged is considerably scarcer than the Marmon Sixteen's 390 examples. On the collector market, the 1929 Duesenberg Model SJ Supercharged commands a significant premium over the 1931 Marmon Sixteen Convertible Sedan, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.