For nearly a decade, the Duesenberg Company exclusively manufactured racing cars and engines. However, in the early 1920s, they embarked on a new venture with their groundbreaking Model A, marking their entry into the realm of road-going cars. Leveraging the wealth of expertise derived from their successful racing technology, they crafted a vehicle that undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape of its era.
Diverging from the conventional engineering practices of the time, this automobile showcased pioneering advancements in nearly every aspect. Its chassis was notably low and incorporated lightweight axles, along with an industry-first feature: four-wheel hydraulic brakes. The engine, with its overhead cam and lightweight construction, bore a striking resemblance to an enlarged version of their brother’s 183ci Grand Prix racing engine. The inclusion of substantial knock-off wire wheels and a radiator reminiscent of racing aesthetics rounded off the overall package.
Approximately 500 of these innovative, high-performance machines were manufactured, and as of today, only about 40 of them endure. In contrast to the Model J Duesenberg, these vehicles represent a genuine Duesenberg design, originating from the ground up and bearing the imprint of their imaginative creators.
Source: Bonhams Cars
