1927 Duesenberg Model X news, pictures, and information

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This beautiful 1927 Model X is owned by Late Show host Jay Leno. It had been found in a garage believed to have been parked and abandoned around the late 1940's. There were a few inches of dust and only two tires had air left in them but other than that the car was in pretty good condition. The ultimate find!

It is believed that only 13 examples of the Duesenberg Model X's were ever produced, with only four surviving. This particular example, the last Duesenberg to be designed by Fred Duesenberg before the company was sold to E.L. Cord, was bodied by Locke & Company.

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Locke Touring
Coachwork: Locke

The Duesenberg brothers parlayed their automobile racing successes into the creation of passenger cars, beginning with what are now termed the Model 'A' cars from 1916 to 1926.

During this period fewer than 300 cars were produced, all carrying the 'Straight Eight' motor which had garnered the firm four Indianapolis 500 Victories during this period.

The Duesenberg Model X, an upgrade to the previously produced Model A, was the last series of Duesenbergs to be designed by Fred Duesenberg. The Duesenberg Company had intended to mass produce the X, but production was cut short when the company was acquired by E.L. Cord in 1927.

This car was originally owned by Arnold Kirkeby, an owner of Chicago hotels and a one time Indianapolis 500 racing car sponsor. It is one of the only four Model 'X' cars remaining (all of different body types) and is considered 'by far the most exotic.' Original paint and leather were discovered on the chassis and were repeated in this striking color scheme.

This car was displayed at the November 1927 New York Auto Show.

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