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1929 Duesenberg J-218 Town Limousine

J-218 Town Limousine image

The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.

The Duesenberg J-218 Town Limousine 1929 is a magnificent automobile that exudes luxury, performance, and style. Considered one of the most outstanding vehicles of the early 20th century, this Duesenberg model boasts an impressive set of technical features that make it stand out from other classic cars.

Powered by a 420-cubic inch straight-eight engine, the Duesenberg J-218 Town Limousine 1929 is a true marvel of engineering. With a horsepower output of 265 at 4200 rpm, this engine is mated to a four-speed manual transmission with synchromesh on the top three gears. The car's speedometer indicates speeds up to 160 miles per hour. The car's top speed is said to be around 93 miles per hour, which was quite remarkable for its time.

The Duesenberg J-218 Town Limousine 1929 also features a superior braking system that utilizes hydraulic brakes powered by engine vacuum. The suspension system consists of a live front axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and a solid rear axle. The car's frame is robust and strong, made of steel tubing that is welded together and reinforced with cross members.

When it comes to the interior of the car, the Duesenberg J-218 Town Limousine 1929 is nothing short of magnificent. The car's luxurious accommodations include four individual leather-clad seats in the back and two additional seats up front behind the engine hood. The car's wood trim is made of hand-finished, polished mahogany, which adds to its overall elegance.

The car's exterior is equally impressive. The Duesenberg J-218 Town Limousine 1929 features a sleek and stylish body designed by LeBaron. The car's long hood and flowing lines are accentuated by its elegant fenders and twin side-mounted spare tires. The car's chrome and nickel-plated trim add to its classic look, making it a truly unique and impressive automobile.

In conclusion, the Duesenberg J-218 Town Limousine 1929 is a technical masterpiece, one that showcases the finest in automotive engineering and design. Its powerful engine, superior braking system, and sturdy suspension set it apart from other classic cars. The car's luxurious interior and elegant exterior make it a true masterpiece of design, a classic that is sure to impress even the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.

Milestones

- Duesenberg J-218 Town Limousine was manufactured in 1929 - The car was commissioned by George Whittell Jr., a wealthy San Francisco socialite and owner of Lake Tahoe's Thunderbird Lodge. - It was designed by Union City Body Company of Indiana. - J-218 features advanced technological and mechanical components for its time, including four-wheel hydraulic brakes and an eight-cylinder supercharged engine capable of producing 265 horsepower. - Whittell ordered the car with many unique features, such as a concealed compartment in the rear for storing his pet lion. - The car was painted in maroon and finished with polished stainless steel. - The J-218 was displayed in 1932 at the New York Auto Show. - The car served Whittell for many years, and he made several upgrades to the car's interior and exterior. - After Whittell died in 1969, the car was sold and passed through the hands of several owners. - In 2011, the J-218 was sold at the RM Auction for $10.34 million, becoming one of the most expensive cars ever sold at an auction.


Technical

• Engine: Straight-8, 6.9-liter displacement, Duesenberg’s trademark twin-overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and a hemispherical combustion chamber. • Power output: 265 hp at 4,200 rpm. • Transmission: Four-speed manual with a vacuum-controlled clutch. • Top speed: 119 mph. • Suspension: F- and R- semi-elliptic leaf springs, front and rear solid axles, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. • Body construction: Full metal bodywork featuring an extended wheelbase of 153.5 inches. • Seat capacity: Eight people. • Wheelbase: 153.5 inches. • Overall length: 242 inches. • Weight: 6,500 pounds. • Fuel capacity: 30-gallon fuel tank. • Production: One of three Town Limousines ever built by Duesenberg. • Notable owners: Paramount Pictures founder Adolph Zukor and publisher William Randolph Hearst.