The 1933 Duesenberg Model J is widely regarded as the rarest car in the world, with only 487 examples produced. Several factors contribute to its exceptional rarity:
Limited Production: Duesenberg Motors, based in Indianapolis, USA, was a relatively small automaker known for producing luxury vehicles. The company produced a range of models throughout its history, but the Model J was undoubtedly the most prestigious.
Economic Context: The Great Depression, which began in 1929 and lasted throughout the 1930s, had a significant impact on the automobile industry. Demand for luxury vehicles plummeted, and Duesenberg was hit hard by the economic crisis.
High Cost: The Duesenberg Model J was an exceptionally expensive car even during the best economic times. Its base price was $25,000, which was equivalent to several times the average annual income at that time.
Custom-Built: Each Duesenberg Model J was essentially custom-built to the customer's specifications. This meant that production was slow, and the company was highly dependent on individual orders.
Rarity of Surviving Models: Out of the 487 Duesenberg Model Js produced, it is estimated that less than 250 still exist today. Many of these cars have been meticulously restored or maintained to original condition, making them highly valuable collectibles.
The combination of limited production, historical context, high cost, and the scarcity of surviving models makes the 1933 Duesenberg Model J one of the rarest and most coveted automobiles in the world.
