Only a small number of 1934 Duesenberg La Grande Dual Cowl Phaeton were ever built. Duesenburg’s philosophy was that its designs should be so original that no Duesey would resemble anything other than another Duesey. A swept-back, double-cowled Phaeton model featured an inset panel which began at the radiator cap, widened near the cowl, and ended in the door in a reverse curve. This design, the Le Baron, was supplanted by the La Grande, which had flatter-faced door surfaces, a straightedge waistline and a panel that extended farther across the front door.
Overview
- Production Year: 1934
- Manufacturer: Duesenberg, Inc.
- Class: Luxury car / Full-size luxury convertible
- Body Style: Dual Cowl Phaeton (open-top touring car with two separate passenger compartments)
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The Duesenberg La Grande was typically powered by a 6.9-liter (420 cubic inch) inline-eight engine.
- This engine was supercharged in the SJ variant, producing around 320 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful engines of its time.
- Transmission:
- The car featured a 3-speed manual transmission, which was typical for luxury cars of the era.
- Chassis:
- Duesenberg used a robust and advanced chassis, known for its strength and durability, capable of supporting the heavy bodywork and powerful engine.
- Suspension:
- The suspension system included semi-elliptic leaf springs at the front and rear, offering a balanced and comfortable ride characteristic of luxury cars from this period.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Duesenberg La Grande could achieve impressive speeds, with the supercharged SJ variant capable of exceeding 115 mph (185 km/h).
- Acceleration: Its powerful engine enabled rapid acceleration, delivering a thrilling driving experience uncommon for luxury cars of the time.
- Handling: Despite its size and weight, the Duesenberg La Grande offered surprisingly agile handling and responsive steering, thanks to its advanced chassis and suspension tuning.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The Dual Cowl Phaeton body style featured distinctive dual windshields and seating compartments, allowing rear passengers to enjoy open-air motoring while shielded from wind and elements.
- The body was handcrafted and custom-built to order, often featuring unique coachwork designed by renowned coachbuilders such as LeBaron, Rollston, or Brunn.
- Interior:
- The interior of the Duesenberg La Grande was luxurious and meticulously appointed, featuring high-quality leather upholstery, fine wood trim, and elegant detailing throughout.
- It offered spacious seating for up to five occupants, with the rear passengers enjoying the benefits of a second cowl and separate seating area.
- Customization:
- Duesenberg cars were renowned for their bespoke customization options, allowing wealthy buyers to personalize their vehicles with custom paint colors, interior materials, and additional features to suit individual tastes and preferences.
Legacy
- Historical Significance:
- The Duesenberg La Grande Dual Cowl Phaeton represents the epitome of American luxury and automotive engineering during the 1930s.
- It symbolizes the craftsmanship and exclusivity associated with Duesenberg, catering to wealthy industrialists, celebrities, and royalty of the era.
You may purchase a print of the 1934 Duesenberg La Grande Dual Cowl Phaeton in our dElegance 2010 online gallery.
