1935 Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster Wins 2026 Pebble Beach Best of Show

The 1935 Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster, a vehicle of exceptional rarity and historical significance, was awarded the prestigious Best of Show title at the 75th annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance held on August 18, 2026. This particular Duesenberg, chassis number 2594, is one of only two SSJ models ever produced by the Duesenberg Automobile & Motors Company, a marque renowned for its opulent and high-performance luxury automobiles during the pre-World War II era. The SSJ designation signifies a "Special Short Wheelbase" model, engineered for performance and exclusivity. This specific car was originally commissioned for and owned by Gary Cooper, the celebrated Hollywood actor, adding a layer of Hollywood glamour and provenance to its already remarkable pedigree. The Duesenberg SSJ was powered by a supercharged 320 cubic inch (5.2-liter) inline-eight engine, capable of producing approximately 320 horsepower, a figure that was extraordinarily high for its time and allowed for speeds exceeding 140 miles per hour. The SSJ's chassis was notably shorter than other Duesenberg models, contributing to its agile handling and sporty demeanor. The bodywork of this award-winning Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster was crafted by LaGrande, a coachbuilder associated with the Duesenberg company, featuring an open two-seater speedster configuration. The car's design embodies the elegance and engineering prowess characteristic of the Golden Age of American automotive design. The Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is one of the world's premier automotive events, attracting an elite collection of vintage, classic, and historically significant automobiles from around the globe. The competition is judged on a variety of criteria, including historical accuracy, mechanical originality, craftsmanship, and the overall elegance and beauty of the vehicle. Winning Best of Show at Pebble Beach is considered the highest honor in the classic car world, signifying that the winning automobile is deemed the finest example of automotive design and preservation. The Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster's victory underscores the enduring appeal and value of these rare American classics. The Duesenberg Automobile & Motors Company, founded by brothers August and Frederick Duesenberg, operated from 1913 to 1937, producing some of the most powerful and luxurious cars of their era, often referred to as "the world's finest." Their vehicles were favored by the wealthy and famous, including royalty, industrialists, and movie stars. The company's demise was largely attributed to the Great Depression, which significantly impacted the market for ultra-luxury goods. The presence of the Duesenberg SSJ Special Speedster, especially one with such significant ownership history as Gary Cooper's, at the 75th anniversary of the Concours d'Elegance, highlights the event's commitment to celebrating automotive excellence across different eras and marques. The 75th anniversary of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance marks a significant milestone for the event, which has been held annually since 1950, with a brief hiatus in 1960. The event is renowned for its stunning setting on the 18th fairway of the Pebble Beach Golf Links and its rigorous judging standards, making the Best of Show award a pinnacle achievement for any automobile collector or restorer.