1931 Duesenberg J Weymann “Taper Tail” Speedster (Best in Show Winner)

A rare one-off black and orange 1931 Duesenberg Model J “Taper Tail” Speedster arriving at and leaving the 2026 San Marino Motor Classic at Lacy Park, where it won Best in Show - Pre War. This car, chassis no. 2450, features bodywork designed by Gordon Buehrig and built by the Weymann-American Body Company with pontoon fenders, a single-person rumble seat, and no exterior door handles, roll-up windows, or running boards. It is one of two Duesenbergs fitted with Buehrig’s speedster bodywork and the only one built on a short-wheelbase chassis. This bespoke car was originally owned by aviation pioneer Walter Varney whose business ultimately became United Airlines. It was later acquired by U.S. Air Force major general William Lyon, founder of the Lyon Air Museum, and remains part of the Lyon Family collection. It has received numerous awards including Best in Show at the 2023 La Jolla Concours d’Elegance, Best of Show (Pre-War) at the 2024 Concours at Wynn Las Vegas, and Best of Show at the Amelia Island 2026 Concours d’Elegance.

Black and orange has never been my favorite color combination on a car, unless you're attending a Halloween parade. But somehow this Duesenberg, with its sculpted bodywork, huge chrome grille, and classy whitewall tires, manages to do away with any Jack-O-Lantern associations and present itself as an absolutely gorgeous example of pre-war American luxury greatness. It stands out even among several other exquisite Duesenbergs on the field and takes spectators back to a glorious era when America built some of the most beautiful, lavish, and luxurious automobiles in the world. No wonder this car took home the top trophy at this event!

Do you think this bespoke Duesenberg deserved to win Best in Show? Leave a comment on YouTube and let me know!