1923 Duesenberg Model A Tourer

260ci SOHC Inline 8-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
88bhp at 3,600rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Front and Rear Semi-Elliptical Leaf Spring Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Beautifully restored matching numbers example
*Handsome original coachwork
*One of the most sophisticated cars of its era
*A true Duesenberg design heavily influenced by racing

THE MODEL A DUESENBERG

For nearly a decade the Duesenberg Company produced only racing cars and engines. In the early 1920s they were ready to get into road going cars with their radical new design the Model A. Leaning heavily on their racing technology that had proven fast and reliable they designed a car that was without question the most ran influenced road car if its era. Eschewing the conservative engineering practices of the day the car exhibited innovations in nearly every component. The low chassis featured light weight axles and an industry first four-wheel hydraulic brakes. The engine with its overhead cam and light weight design looked an enlarged twin of the brother's 183ci Grand Prix racing engine. Big knock-off wire wheels and a racing style radiator finished off the package.

Roughly 500 of these innovative and high-performance machines were produced and today only about 40 exist. Unlike the Model J Duesenberg these are a true Duesenberg design from the ground up and reflective the creative minds of their creator.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This Model A Duesenberg spent 54 years in the collection of William Johnson in Burbank, California. Mr Johnson had acquired this 'A' in 1948 and for much of that time it resided in his collection alongside two other Model As and a Model X. With the help of Randy Ema all the cars were sold in 2002, the Model X going to Jay Leno and this, 786, going to the previous owner. Dr Gregory Vanley became the first new owner of 786 in over 50 years.

Removed from Johnson's collection in compete original condition the Duesenberg was now ready for a comprehensive restoration. 786 was entrusted to the capable hands of Greg Morrell, whose capabilities were confirmed with his restoration of the Talbot-Lago Teardrop Coupe that was awarded Best of Show at the 1997 Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance.

These cars are difficult and expensive to restore to this level and this car is done very well, it was a restoration which would span 10 years and benefit from much assistance by Randy Ema to ensure it was as accurate as possible. The finished product is an exceptionally fine restoration with great attention to detail. The painstaking restoration reflects the 'labor of love' nature of this job. Looking at the car today it shows almost no evidence that the work was completed more than a decade ago. The car remains in sharp and fresh order, with excellent paintwork. Fortunately, the restoration was far more than just cosmetic and great attention was put into the driving performance. The Duesenberg runs strongly and easily starts even in the coldest weather. The stock hydraulic brake system works strongly and stops the car smoothly without commotion.

Acquired by the current owner, a well-known historian of the marque, roughly five years ago, it has been used lightly but consistently ever since. Exhibited occasionally, it was shown here at Amelia Island in 2020 winning a class award and completing the Amelia tour, it has primarily been enjoyed on local roads.

This is a finely restored and very proper example of its breed, with original coachwork and matching numbers. Only 40 Model As are thought to survive, so they are scarcely offered machines and seldom found in this condition. Being offered from excellent private ownership this is great opportunity to acquire a handsome and significant model from one of the world's greatest marques.