1932 Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible

Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible image

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The Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible 1932 was a highly advanced car for its time, featuring a powerful eight-cylinder engine that generated an impressive 320 horsepower. This engine was a supercharged Straight-8 unit, which used two blocks of four cylinders arranged in a straight line. Each block had its own carburetor and an aluminum crankcase, which helped to reduce weight and improve performance.

The car's overall design was the work of stylist Gordon Buehrig and coachbuilder Walter Murphy, who collaborated on several Duesenberg projects during the 1930s. The Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible was one of the most popular and sought-after models of its time, and its features included a long and elegant hood, a sleek and streamlined body, and a retractable soft top that could be lowered or raised with ease.

From a technical standpoint, the Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible 1932 was a marvel of engineering. Its chassis was made from sturdy steel tubing and featured a rigid X-shaped cross member that provided exceptional strength and rigidity. The car's suspension system was also advanced, featuring solid front and rear axles with semi-elliptical leaf springs and hydraulic dampers that helped to smooth out the ride.

The Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible's braking system was equally impressive, with 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes that provided exceptional stopping power even at high speeds. This system was aided by a mechanical servo that helped to boost the amount of force applied to the brakes, making it easier for the driver to stop the car quickly and safely.

Inside, the Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible 1932 was appointed with luxurious materials and state-of-the-art features. The cockpit featured a large, easy-to-read speedometer and tachometer, along with a host of other gauges and controls that allowed the driver to monitor the car's performance at all times. The seats were upholstered in sumptuous leather and provided ample support for long drives, while the air conditioning system helped to keep passengers comfortable in any weather conditions.

Overall, the Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible 1932 was a true masterpiece of automotive engineering and design. Its blend of power, performance, and luxury made it one of the most desirable cars of its era, and its technical innovations helped to set it apart from other vehicles on the road. Today, this classic car remains a sought-after collector's item, prized for its beauty and engineering prowess alike.

Milestones

- 1929: Duesenberg Motors Inc. introduces Model J at the New York Auto Show - 1932: Murphy Company coachbuilders create Coupe Convertible body style for Model J - 1933: Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible makes its debut at the New York Auto Show - 1935: Duesenberg Motors Inc. ceases production due to financial struggles and bankruptcy - 1950-1960s: Rising popularity of classic cars leads to increased demand and value for Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible - 1971: Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible sells for a record-breaking $225,000 at auction - 1996: The last remaining original Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible sells for $10 million at auction - 2021: Duesenberg Model J Murphy Coupe Convertible remains a highly coveted and iconic classic car, with only a handful of original models still in existence.


Technical

- Engine: 6.9-liter straight-eight, 265 horsepower - Transmission: Three-speed manual - Suspension: Front beam axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and rear live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs - Brakes: Four-wheel hydraulic drum - Wheelbase: 142 inches - Overall length: 205 inches - Curb weight: 4,700 pounds - Top speed: 115 mph - Body style: Two-door Murphy Coupe Convertible - Body material: Aluminum - Interior features: Leather upholstery, gauges, radio and heater - Production years: 1929-1937 - Original price: $8,500 (equivalent to more than $150,000 today) - Notable owners: Clark Gable, Gary Cooper, Spencer Tracy and William Randolph Hearst.