1932 Duesenberg Model J Custom Speedster
After World War II, many surviving Model J chassis became candidates for custom bodywork when their 265 horsepower remained superior to contemporary Cadillac or Oldsmobile V8s. Custom speedster conversions often featured sleek designs without running boards or exterior door handles, emphasizing the sporting character of these powerful chassis.
This particular example showcases dramatic longhorn steer horns mounted on the front end, giving it unmistakable presence and earning the nickname “Big Cow.” The car has long been associated in automotive folklore with cowboy movie star Tom Mix, though historical evidence suggests this connection is more legend than fact.
The two-tone maroon and tan paint scheme flows over bodywork created from post-war Cadillac and Oldsmobile panels, representing an early attempt to modernize the classic design for contemporary tastes.
White sidewall tires and wire wheels complement the flowing speedster lines while the original 153-inch wheelbase and factory transmission maintain the mechanical integrity that made Duesenbergs legendary.
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