1930 Duesenberg Model J Limousine

Introduced at the 1928 New York Auto Show in bare chassis form, the Model J features a long list of advanced technology. Powered by a massive 420 cubic-inch twin overhead cam, 32-valve engine that generates 335 lb.-ft of torque at just 500 RPM, it allows a second gear speed of nearly 90 miles per hour.

This car was built in 1930 and cloaked in Willoughby's seven-passenger limousine coachwork. It was sold to Judge Rowe of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Initially, the car was sold with engine J-383. Later the factory replaced that engine with J-306.

Willoughby built about 40 closed bodies for Duesenberg. About half were limousines. Everybody had slightly different interior upholstery, door hardware, vanities, and lighting. The intercom was produced by the Dictograph Company. It allowed a passenger to instruct the chauffeur while keeping the division window sealed. The car has two jump seats, a special trunk rack, and dual taillights. The tinted glass sun visor was specifically designed for the Willoughby Coachwork.

The car rides on a 153' wheelbase and comfortably carried five passengers. The engine produces 265 horsepower mated to Warner Gear's three-speed transmission. Together they allow the car to exceed any legal speed limit by a wide margin.

This 1930 Duesenberg Model J wears 7-passenger Limousine coachwork created by the Willoughby Body Company of Utica, New York. It has been certified by the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Club as a Category 1 Original. It has chassis number 2402 and original body number 2402. The original engine, J-383, was defective and replaced at the Duesenberg factory with its present engine, number J-306, which uses a Schebler Model S carburetor. The car is finished in dark green and has twin side-mount spares, a louvered hood, an articulated spotlight, and dual horns. Inside there is an opulent pleated Tan leather interior with full-length Persian-style rug carpeting.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2018