If These Cars Could Talk: 1931 Duesenberg Model J Sedan

Join us for an in-depth look at the many automobiles in our collection and discover their part in our history. If These Cars Could Talk is a monthly program offered by museum staff for free to the public on the first Saturday of each month.

The Beverly sedan is one of Gordon Buehrig’s most recognized Duesenberg body styles.  Its low silhouette and prominently slanted windshield created an elegant and well-proportioned body design accentuated by the long wheelbase chassis.  Its V-shaped B-pillar resembles a convertible top created by the French coachbuilders, Hibbard and Darrin. 

Not only did Buehrig pen the exterior, but also the interior, with its armchair rear seat, cabinetry and passenger instrumentation, designed to create symmetry of appearance.  A radio and a women’s Tiffany silver makeup set are included in this highly appointed interior.

This Beverly body was constructed by the Walter M. Murphy Company of Pasadena, California, a frequent coachbuilder for Duesenberg, Inc. 

This sedan is equipped with a 420 cubic-inch straight 8-cylinder engine with 265 horsepower.  It weights around 5,500 pounds and would have cost $16,500 when new.

This presentation will be held in the museum galleries next to the car from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm on Saturday, August 6, 2022   and is offered to all patrons for free with museum admission. For more information, including the specific location of the presentation, please call ahead at 260-925-1444 or see an associate at the admission desk.