This 1934 Duesenberg Brunn Riviera Phaeton is one of only three Model J's with a Riviera Phaeton body by Brunn and was the first convertible to have a disappearing fold down top. It has a 6.9 liter engine with a 32 valve, dual-overhead camshaft and eight-cylinders that produced 265 horsepower and was designed by Fred Duesenberg.
The Brunn Riviera Phaeton is a prime example of American luxury and craftsmanship during the pre-war era. Duesenberg, known for producing some of the most luxurious and powerful cars of the time, collaborated with coachbuilder Brunn & Company to create this exceptional vehicle.
This car was restored by Fran Roxas and Brian Joseph noted Duesenberg restorers.
Overview
- Production Year: 1934
- Manufacturer: Duesenberg, Inc.
- Class: Luxury car
- Body Style: Phaeton (four-door convertible)
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The Duesenberg Brunn Riviera Phaeton was equipped with a 6.9-liter (420 cubic inches) straight-eight engine.
- This engine produced approximately 265 horsepower, with some supercharged variants (SJ models) producing up to 320 horsepower.
- Transmission: 3-speed manual gearbox
- Chassis: The car featured a heavy-duty ladder frame chassis, designed to support the large, luxurious body.
- Suspension:
- Front: Solid front axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels.
Performance
- Top Speed: The non-supercharged Duesenberg could reach speeds of up to 100 mph (161 km/h), while the supercharged SJ variants could exceed 130 mph (209 km/h).
- Acceleration: Known for strong acceleration, the powerful engine provided impressive performance for a luxury car of its size and era.
Design Features
- Bodywork: The Brunn Riviera Phaeton featured a unique and elegant body designed by Brunn & Company. It had a long hood, sweeping fenders, and a convertible top that provided an open-air driving experience. The phaeton design included a dual-cowl setup with a separate windshield for the rear passengers.
- Interior: The interior was opulently appointed with high-quality materials such as leather upholstery, wood trim, and finely detailed instrumentation. The spacious cabin provided luxury and comfort for both the driver and passengers.
- Custom Coachwork: Each Brunn Riviera Phaeton was custom-built, often tailored to the specific preferences of its wealthy owner, making each car unique.
Notable Achievements
- Luxury and Prestige: The Duesenberg Brunn Riviera Phaeton was one of the most luxurious and prestigious cars of its time. It was a symbol of wealth and status, often owned by celebrities, industrialists, and royalty.
- Engineering Excellence: Duesenberg's engineering prowess was evident in the car's powerful engine, advanced braking system, and robust chassis, setting a high standard for automotive excellence.
Legacy
- Historic Significance: The Duesenberg Brunn Riviera Phaeton represents the pinnacle of pre-war American luxury automobiles. Its combination of power, luxury, and custom craftsmanship make it a standout model in automotive history.
- Collector's Item: Today, the Duesenberg Brunn Riviera Phaeton is highly sought after by classic car collectors. Its rarity, historical importance, and exquisite design make it one of the most coveted vehicles at classic car auctions and shows.
You may purchase a print of the 1934 Duesenberg Brunn Riviera Phaeton in our dElegance 2012 online gallery.
