Duesenberg Model A classic cars for sale

History of the Duesenberg Model A

Introduced in late 1920, the Duesenberg Model A—officially known as the Duesenberg Straight Eight—marked a pivotal moment in American automotive history. Its public debut in New York City was followed by delays, primarily due to major technical revisions like introducing an overhead camshaft and relocating the company's operations from New Jersey to Indiana. Production commenced in 1921 at the Indianapolis factory and continued under a restructured company until 1926. The Model A distinguished the Duesenberg name well before the arrival of the famed Model J and helped establish a high-performance, luxury reputation.

Model History

The Duesenberg Model A was the debut production model from Duesenberg, following their previous focus on racing engines and competition specials. Its technical achievements positioned it far ahead of American contemporaries. After the Model A, the next significant model was the Duesenberg Model J, which brought even more powerful engines and opulent bodywork but kept some of the groundbreaking engineering concepts first introduced with the Model A.

Highlights of the Duesenberg Model A

The Model A holds the historical distinction as the first serial-production automobile fitted with hydraulic brakes and a straight-eight engine in the United States. Both innovations offered huge safety and performance advantages over rivals. Manufactured in limited numbers compared to later Duesenbergs, the Model A combines technical milestones with period-correct luxury.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

There are no widely recognized special editions of the Duesenberg Model A documented for series-produced vehicles. Individual cars may differ based on custom coachwork, but official manufacturer-sanctioned variants are not noted in production records.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The heart of the Model A is its straight-eight engine with an overhead camshaft—a rarity for road cars in the early 1920s. This configuration delivered smooth, reliable power and helped the Model A outperform much of its competition. The hydraulic brake system vastly improved stopping distances and driver confidence. Its robust chassis and advanced drivetrain contributed to driving dynamics that were considered extremely advanced at the time. Within the classic car market, the Model A is the singular focus for Duesenberg. Every Duesenberg available is a Model A, giving buyers a direct connection to this technical pioneer.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Design and craftsmanship on the Duesenberg Model A reflected its status as an engineering flagship. Exteriors were characterized by luxurious coach-built bodies—customers could often choose or specify bespoke features via third-party bodywork companies. Interior appointments emphasized comfort with high-quality materials and functional, period-correct instrumentation. The technical layout of the vehicle, with a long bonnet and powerful inline-eight, shaped its distinctive profile.

Summary

The Duesenberg Model A occupies a unique corner of automotive history as both a technological milestone and a prestige vehicle. Its straight-eight, overhead cam engine and hydraulic brakes pushed American carmaking forward. With all Duesenberg market interest centred on this model, buyers are acquiring a piece of innovation and luxury from a formative period in US automotive engineering.