1930 Duesenberg - Fred Frame Side-Winder is the best know of the racing Duesies in the 1930's built by Augie Duesenberg it took 2nd Place 1931 Indy 500. In 1933 driver/owner Fred Frame added a Duesenburg side-winder supercharger to the eight-cylinder engine resulting in 200+ horsepower. Raced into the 40's and found in a chicken coup in California years later.
Background and Design
Duesenberg Model J: Introduced in 1928, the Duesenberg Model J was one of the most prestigious luxury cars of its time, known for its powerful inline-eight engine and custom-built chassis. The chassis was robust and versatile, allowing for various coachwork designs by prestigious coachbuilders of the era.
Fred Frame Modification: Fred Frame was a noted mechanic and race car builder who collaborated with Duesenberg to create a modified version of the Model J known as the "Side-Winder." This modification typically involved enhancements to the chassis and drivetrain to improve performance and handling, particularly for racing purposes.
Technical Features
Engine: The Duesenberg Model J was powered by a 6.9-liter (420 cubic inch) straight-eight engine. It was equipped with dual overhead camshafts and produced around 265 horsepower in standard form. Custom tuning and modifications by Fred Frame could potentially increase horsepower and torque output for racing applications.
Chassis: The chassis of the Model J was designed with durability and performance in mind. It featured a robust frame and suspension system, which could be further reinforced or modified by Fred Frame to suit specific racing conditions. The "Side-Winder" modification likely included adjustments to improve handling and stability at high speeds.
Bodywork: The body of the Duesenberg Model J was typically custom-built by renowned coachbuilders such as Murphy, LeBaron, or Rollston, among others. These coachbuilders crafted luxurious and stylish bodies tailored to the owner's specifications, ranging from sedans and convertibles to sporty roadsters and phaetons.
Racing Legacy and Collectibility
Racing Success: The Duesenberg Model J, especially in modified forms like the "Fred Frame Side-Winder," had a notable presence in racing and speed trials of its time. These cars were prized for their combination of power, speed, and elegant design, making them competitive in various motorsport events.
Collectibility: Original Duesenberg Model J cars are highly sought after by collectors and automotive enthusiasts due to their historical significance, luxurious craftsmanship, and association with high-performance engineering. Modified versions like the "Side-Winder" are particularly rare and desirable among collectors who appreciate unique and bespoke automotive creations.
Legacy
Influence on Automotive Design: The Duesenberg Model J, with modifications like the "Fred Frame Side-Winder," influenced automotive design and engineering during the Golden Age of motoring. Its powerful engine, advanced chassis, and custom coachwork set benchmarks for luxury and performance that continue to inspire automotive enthusiasts today.
You may purchase a print of the 1930 Duesenberg - Fred Frame Side-Winder in our dElegance 2011 online gallery.
