The 1933 Duesenberg SJN Arlington Torpedo Sedan raised the standard of automotive design with a car so spectacular that it commanded the unheard of price of $20,000. The Arlington Torpedo Sedan was designed by legendary stylist, Gordon Mille Buehring. It was placed atop a Supercharged SJ chassis by Rollston, INC. of New York. The vehicle was built for a display at the Century of Progress Exposition, better known as the Chicago World’s Fair of 1933-34.
This car received more attention to chassis fit and finish than any other Duesenberg ever constructed. When acquired by the current owners in 1978, Mr. Buehring and former Duesenberg president Harold Ames were both consulted on, to ensure an accurate restoration. The car emerged from the shop at San Sylmar exactly as it appeared the day it left the factory for the World’s Fair.
This spectacular example of wheeled sculpture usually resides in the Grand Salon of the Nethercutt Collection in Slymar, California.
Background
- Manufacturer: Duesenberg, an American luxury automobile company known for producing some of the most opulent and technologically advanced cars of its time.
- Model: SJN
- Year: 1933
- Design: The car was designed by J. Herbert Newport, a prominent automotive designer.
Specifications
- Engine: The Duesenberg SJN was equipped with a supercharged straight-eight engine, delivering around 320 horsepower. The "SJ" designation indicated the presence of a supercharger, which significantly boosted the engine's performance.
- Body Style: The Arlington Torpedo Sedan featured a sleek and elegant design. It was a four-door sedan with a streamlined, aerodynamic body that epitomized the Art Deco style of the era.
- Coachwork: The coachwork for the Arlington Torpedo Sedan was done by Rollston, a renowned coachbuilder based in New York. Rollston was known for creating bespoke, high-quality bodies for luxury automobiles.
Features
- Luxury and Craftsmanship: The Duesenberg SJN Arlington Torpedo Sedan was built with the finest materials and craftsmanship. The interior featured sumptuous leather, polished wood, and detailed instrumentation, providing unparalleled comfort and elegance.
- Performance: The car was not only luxurious but also incredibly powerful. Its supercharged engine allowed it to achieve impressive speeds, making it one of the fastest and most advanced cars of its time.
- Rarity: Due to its high cost and the economic conditions of the Great Depression, only a few Duesenberg SJNs were produced, making them extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors today.
Legacy
- Status Symbol: Owning a Duesenberg SJN was a symbol of immense wealth and status. It was favored by celebrities, industrialists, and royalty.
- Automotive Heritage: The Duesenberg brand is synonymous with the golden age of American luxury automobiles. The SJN Arlington Torpedo Sedan is a prime example of the brand's commitment to excellence in engineering and design.
- Collectability: Today, the Duesenberg SJN Arlington Torpedo Sedan is considered one of the most valuable and collectible classic cars in the world. It represents a significant piece of automotive history and continues to be celebrated for its beauty, performance, and luxury.
You may purchase a print of the 1933 Duesenberg SJN Arlington Torpedo Sedan in our dElegance 2011 online gallery.