Duesenberg Model J (1929 to 1937)

The Duesenberg Model J was introduced for the 1929 model year. The Model J is the most well known and most highly regarded Duesenberg car. At the time of its launch, it was not only the fastest American car, it was also the most expensive. The Model J was also the first Duesenberg developed under the ownership of E.L. Cord, who shifted the company's focus from sporty cars to high end luxury cars. Created to compete with the world's best cars, the Model J was fitted with a massive Duesenberg designed, Lycombe built 7.0L inline eight engine. As was common at the time, Duesenberg created the engine and chassis, while bodywork was done by a range of coachbuilders, even for the standard Base Model. In 1932, a supercharged version of the J was introduced, this car was known as the Model SJ. The most notable J variant was the ultra rare Model SSJ, which was not only supercharged, but built on a special shortened chassis. Sales of the Model J never reached their intended goals due to the Great Depression, and even an attempted update with the Model JN failed to turn to Duesenberg's fortunes, with the company folding in 1937.