This 1936 Duesenberg Prototype Gentleman's Speedster was on display at the ACD museum during the 1970s and 1980s and in 1989, Ed Weaver purchased this car and had it restored to its original specifications.  Actor Jackie Coogan is reputed to have been its first owner.  This car has been certified by the ACD club as an experimental Category I car.

In the mid-1930s, Cord Corporation designed a less expensive Duesenburg to offset the decline brought on by The Great Depression. This was labeled “The Baby Duesenburg Project”.  Since the Auburn was popular at this time, Gordon Buehrig used existing V12 engines to help design this Duesenburg Gentleman’s Speedster.  This is the only prototype known to have been produced.  Parts from Auburns, Cords and Duesenburgs were used to build this car.  In addition to the Lycoming V12 engine, bumpers were designed like the 810-812 Cord, body was a modified Auburn Speedster, the hood panels were those of a Duesenburg.

The 1936 Duesenberg Prototype Gentleman's Speedster is a testament to the brand's legacy of luxury and performance. Its powerful inline-8 engine, elegant design, and advanced engineering make it an exceptional vehicle. The Gentleman's Speedster remains a cherished and celebrated car among collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place as one of the most iconic and revered models in the history of classic automobiles.

Overview

• Production Year: 1936 (Prototype)
• Manufacturer: Duesenberg
• Model: Prototype Gentleman's Speedster
• Body Style: Speedster (open-top)

Design and Specifications

• Engine:
  • The Gentleman's Speedster is powered by a Duesenberg inline-8 engine.
  • The engine displacement is typically 420 cubic inches (6.9 liters).
  • It produces approximately 320 horsepower, an impressive figure for the era.
  • The engine features advanced technologies such as dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder.
• Transmission:
  • The car is equipped with a 3-speed manual transmission.
  • The gearbox is designed to handle the high power output and provide smooth, reliable shifting.
• Chassis:
  • The chassis is built on Duesenberg's renowned platform, known for its strength and durability.
  • The wheelbase measures around 142.5 inches (3,620 mm), providing stability and a smooth ride.
• Suspension:
  • The front suspension consists of a solid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • The rear suspension features a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • This setup ensures a balance between ride comfort and handling performance.
• Brakes:
  • The Gentleman's Speedster is equipped with hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels.
  • These brakes provide reliable stopping power, crucial for a high-performance vehicle.

Performance

• Top Speed: The Gentleman's Speedster could achieve top speeds of around 120 mph (193 km/h).
• Acceleration: The powerful inline-8 engine offers impressive acceleration, making the car competitive with other high-performance vehicles of its time.
• Handling: The well-engineered chassis and suspension provide excellent handling, allowing drivers to enjoy a responsive and engaging driving experience.

Design Features

• Bodywork:
  • The body of the Gentleman's Speedster is a custom creation, characterized by its sleek and aerodynamic design.
  • The open-top design and low, streamlined profile emphasize speed and elegance.
  • The body is crafted from lightweight materials, such as aluminum, to enhance performance.
• Interior:
  • The interior is luxurious, featuring high-quality leather upholstery and elegant finishes.
  • The seats are designed to provide comfort and support, ideal for long drives and spirited driving.
  • The dashboard includes essential gauges and controls, arranged in a driver-focused layout.
• Styling:
  • The styling of the Gentleman's Speedster is characterized by its timeless elegance and attention to detail.
  • The car often features distinctive design elements such as a bold front grille, chrome accents, and stylish fenders.
  • The overall design exudes sophistication and performance, making it a standout vehicle.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Historical Significance:
  • The 1936 Duesenberg Prototype Gentleman's Speedster represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance in the pre-war automotive industry.
  • It showcases Duesenberg's commitment to innovation and excellence, blending cutting-edge technology with exquisite design.
• Rarity and Exclusivity:
  • As a prototype, the Gentleman's Speedster is extremely rare and unique, making it a highly coveted piece among collectors and enthusiasts.
  • Its rarity and historical importance add to its allure and value.

Taken at the 2011 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance.

You may purchase a print of the 1936 Duesenberg Prototype Gentleman's Speedster in our dElegance 2011 online gallery.

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