1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Dual Cowl Phaeton

To many, Duesenberg represents the pinnacle of American automobile art. Fred and August Duesenberg were master mechanics and metal artisans, whose names have lived on long after their company closed. This car was built for an associate of E. L. Cord who saved Duesenberg after the depression. The supercharged SJs are extremely rare and desirable cars. This one has been featured at Dusenberg gatherings at Meadowbrook.

In the Classic Era, it wasn't uncommon for an owner to have a favorite coachbuilt body, which would be reconditioned and moved to a new chassis every few years, rather than buying an entirely new automobile at tremendous cost. Duesenberg President Lucius B. Manning was no exception and had at his disposal a 'sweep panel' Dual-Cowl Phaeton, designed by Gordon Buehrig and built under the 'LaGrande' label by Union City Body Company.

This 1935 Duesenberg SJ has coachwork by Union City Coachbuilders and has the coveted supercharged version of the Duesenberg/Lycoming straight-eight engine. It carries s/n 2592 J-562 and is one of four chassis that was equipped with the LaGrande Phaeton body on a long wheelbase frame. The vehicle was first owned by the Vice President of Cord, L.B. Manning. Mr. Manning enjoyed the vehicle so much that he had the chassis fitted to a different chassis on four occasions. The other three chassis were sold to customers who had them fitted with custom bodies.

This vehicle shown is the third in the series constructed. It was originally sold to a customer with a Willoughby limousine body which had an adequate wheelbase to accommodate this LaGrand Phateon body.

This vehicle was shown at the 2006 Palm Beach International, a Concours d'Elegance where it was awarded the 'Most Elegant Car' award.