1929 Duesenberg Model J Murphy Convertible Sedan

When introduced, the Model J was the most expensive car in America. The chassis alone cost a staggering $8500; the typical family car cost around $500. The price came standard with ambiance, style, and perfection. It was matched by its performance which included a 265 horsepower engine (325 hp for the supercharged version) and power hydraulic brakes.

The Duesenberg Model J models were excellent candidates for coachbuilders with Murphy providing some of the most desirable and elegant designs of all. Based in Pasadena, California, the Murphy Company was well known for its work with Packards. Their designs were elegant with their trademark being the 'clear vision' pillar which helped eliminate blind spots and improve visibility.

This 1929 Duesenberg Model J Convertible Sedan with chassis number J262 has had several owners since its debut. The original color was grey but by the 1980s it was changed to red. A restoration was undertaken; it was sold in 1989 part way through the restoration process. The next owner, Sonny Abagnale, completed the restoration and had the color finished in black. It was shown in a movie with Mick Jagger. Since that time it has passed through a few more owners.

It was auctioned at the 2006 Meadow Brook auction by RM Auctions where it was estimated to fetch between $750,000 - $900,000. It found a new home at the price of $907,500.

This wonderful car has coachwork by Murphy and is powered by a 420 cubic-inch engine that produces 265 horsepower. It has a three-speed manual gearbox and vacuum-assisted four-wheel hydraulic brakes.

In 2010, the car returned to RM's Auction Vintage Motor Cars of Meadow Brook sale where it was estimated to fetch between $800,000 - $1,000,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $825,000.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2010