Czechoslovakia vs USA — 1934 vs 1935
| T87 Aerodynamic Sedan | Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 120 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,968 cc | 6,882 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 18.0 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 115 mph |
| Weight | 3,020 lbs | 5,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm | 3,988 mm |
| Length | 4,740 mm | 5,790 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,056 | 36 |
| Original MSRP | — | $17,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $8,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
The 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan counters with lighter weight, 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.
When Czechoslovakia engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan and 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton holds a clear advantage in raw power with 265 hp compared to 75 hp, a 190-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Tatra T87 uses a V8 Air-Cooled OHC displacing 2,968 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 18.0 seconds. The Tatra T87 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2580 lbs lighter. 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 Tatra T87's 3,056 examples. On the collector market, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton commands a significant premium over the 1934 Tatra T87 Aerodynamic Sedan, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.