1929 Duesenberg Model J Murphy SWB Convertible Coupe

Introduced in the fall of 1928, the Model J Duesenberg boasted a four-valve-per-cylinder straight-eight engine that produced more than twice the horsepower of its nearest competitor. This particular Murphy Sports Sedan was featured at the San Francisco Auto Show in 1929. Original projections called for the production of 500 Model Js in its first run. No one foresaw the stock market crash of October 1929 that triggered 'The Great Depression' and the effect it would have on the luxury car market. A second production run never occurred and it took nearly 10 years to sell the 480 autos built.

Duesenberg went out of business in 1937 and, without question, is the single most sought-after collector car in America today.

This 1929 Duesenberg Model J Convertible Coupe has coachwork by Walter M. Murphy and carries chassis number 2198, engine number J179, and body number 824. It is powered by a 420 cubic-inch Dual Overhead Camshaft engine with Schebler Duplex Dual 1.5-inch Throat Carburetor. There is a three-speed manual gearbox and 265 horsepower available. The vehicle rests on a 142.5-inch wheelbase. It was offered for sale at the 2006 Gooding & Company Auction where it was one of the highlights of the auction.

Its first owner was James L. and Olive D. Robers of Schenectady, NY. The vehicle was ordered on July 17th of 1929 making it one of the earlier Model J's to be ordered. The vehicle was ready a month later and the Roberts traveled to Indianapolis to take delivery. The car remained in their possession for twenty years, until 1949 when it passed to its next owner, John W. Howell III. Ownership quickly changed again, passing to Ethan Allen. Mr. Allen had some minor mechanical work done on the vehicle and kept it in his possession for the next thirty-five years.

In 1998 a complete mechanical restoration was commissioned. It is an Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club Level 1 car, meaning that it still retains its original chassis, engine, and body.

In the front of the vehicle is a single Pilot-Ray driving light. Behind the light is a black honeycomb radiator without grille bars or slate. There are dual mounted side spare tires with side mirrors mounted on them. The interior has matching blue upholstered seats and blue carpets.

At auction, the car found a new owner, selling for $902,000.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2012