USA vs USA — 1928 vs 1935
| Model J SJ Supercharged | Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 320 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 450 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,882 cc | 6,882 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 10.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 115 mph |
| Weight | 5,500 lbs | 5,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,620 mm | 3,988 mm |
| Length | 5,690 mm | 5,790 mm |
| Units Produced | 481 | 36 |
| Original MSRP | $8,500 | $17,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $15,000,000 | $8,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
On balance, the 1928 Duesenberg Model J SJ Supercharged makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton counters with greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1928 Duesenberg Model J SJ Supercharged for outright capability, or the 1935 Duesenberg Model J LaGrande Dual-Cowl Phaeton for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Duesenberg Model J. The 1928 and 1935 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1928 Duesenberg Model J SJ Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 320 hp compared to 265 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Duesenberg Model J uses a Inline-8 DOHC Supercharged 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 1928 Duesenberg Model J SJ Supercharged edges ahead at 8.0 seconds versus 10.5 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 SJ Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.