USA vs USA — 1935 vs 1937
| Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton | 812 Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 190 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,882 cc | 4,729 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 13.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 18.5 sec |
| Weight | 5,600 lbs | 4,200 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,988 mm | 3,200 mm |
| Length | 5,790 mm | 5,232 mm |
| Units Produced | 36 | 1,146 |
| Original MSRP | $17,500 | $3,060 |
| Value (Excellent) | $8,500,000 | $350,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 9/10 |
On balance, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton for outright capability, or the 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Luxury cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton versus the 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged. Both hail from Pre-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton holds a clear advantage in raw power with 265 hp compared to 190 hp, a 75-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Duesenberg Model J uses a Inline-8 DOHC displacing 6,882 cc, while the Cord 812 relies on a V8 OHV Supercharged with 4,729 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. The Cord 812 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1400 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 Cord 812's 1,146 examples. On the collector market, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton commands a significant premium over the 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.