This 1935 Duesenberg SJ509 Roadster was built for Woolworth heiress Barbara Hutton and given as a gift to Prince Serge M’Divani. Hutton presented it to the Prince who was the brother of the man she was dating at the time. Prince M’Divani died shortly thereafter of a fall from a polo pony.
The car was sold to Melvin Clements of Bridgeport, W.V. sight unseen. Clements kept the car for over a decade before selling it to Jerry Gebby, a gun engineer from Dayton, OH in the 1950’s. Gebby treasured the car for over 30 years during which time he made many changes. The car was then sold to Steve Nanini, a well-known classic car collector, who had the car restored. Since then the car has been passed through to other collectors.
Overview
- Production Year: 1935
- Manufacturer: Duesenberg
- Class: Luxury car / Grand Tourer
- Body Style: Roadster (2-door convertible)
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The Duesenberg SJ (Supercharged Model J) was powered by a 6.9-liter (420 cubic inches) supercharged straight-eight engine.
- It featured a twin overhead camshaft design and was capable of producing approximately 320 to 400 horsepower, depending on the supercharger boost and configuration.
- Transmission:
- Equipped with a 3-speed manual gearbox, designed for high performance and smooth gear changes.
- Chassis:
- The car featured a robust chassis, designed to handle the power and provide stability at high speeds.
- Suspension:
- Front: Independent suspension with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, ensuring a balanced ride suitable for both touring and spirited driving.
Performance
- Top Speed: Capable of reaching speeds up to 140 to 160 mph (225 to 257 km/h), depending on the body style and supercharger setup.
- Acceleration: Known for impressive acceleration, thanks to the combination of the powerful engine and lightweight body construction.
- Handling: Despite its size and power, the Duesenberg SJ was praised for its manageable handling characteristics, making it a favorite among wealthy enthusiasts and drivers.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The Roadster body style featured an open-top design, emphasizing the car's sporting nature and allowing occupants to enjoy the wind-in-hair experience.
- Styling elements included flowing lines, classic proportions, and luxurious details, reflecting the opulence and elegance of the era.
- Interior:
- The interior of the Duesenberg SJ Roadster was lavishly appointed, featuring high-quality materials such as leather upholstery, polished wood trim, and comprehensive instrumentation for the driver's comfort and convenience.
Legacy
- Historical Significance:
- The Duesenberg SJ 509 Roadster represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance from the pre-war American automotive industry.
- Its association with celebrities, industrialists, and prominent figures of the time elevated its status as a symbol of wealth, power, and automotive excellence.
You may purchase a print of the 1935 Duesenberg SJ509 Roadster in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.
