1931 Duesenberg Model J Convertible Sedan
Royal ownership elevated this exceptional American luxury automobile when Queen Maria of Yugoslavia took delivery after its captivating display at the 1931 Paris Salon.
Built on Duesenberg’s long-wheelbase chassis (153.5 inches), the convertible sedan featured elegant dual-windscreen coachwork by Carrosserie Franay of Levallois-Perret.
Fred Duesenberg’s magnificent 420 cubic inch inline-eight engine provided the mechanical foundation, generating 265 horsepower through twin overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. With a factory-installed supercharger, output rose to 320 horsepower, making the Model J among the most powerful production automobiles of its day.
Advanced engineering included driver-adjustable hydraulic drum brakes and an automatic chassis lubrication system that operated every 30 to 60 miles. Dashboard warning lights were linked to the chassis’ planetary gear-driven service indicators, demonstrating remarkably sophisticated technology for the period.
Early in its life, the original flowing fenders were replaced by current pontoon-style units, which complemented Franay’s clean bodywork. Originally finished for European royalty, this Model J stands as one of the finest examples of American luxury car manufacturing during the classic era.
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