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Chassis:
Built on one of the very few Model X chassis, this is one of the most influential Duesenbergs ever constructed. The reason was the 'Boat Roadster' body designed and built by the McFarlan company from Connersville, Indiana. Although it remained a one-off, as McFarlan was very much distracted by building cars under their own name, the 'Boat Roadster' inspired the Auburn designers to develop the spectacular Speedsters built from 1928 onwards. The design's most striking feature, apart from the colourful finish, is the long boat-shaped tail that gave it its name.
Despite the lack of a top and wipers, the car was eventually sold to Chicago businessman and Duesenberg Race Team sponsor Arnold Kirkeby. As a consequence of the 'Great Depression' he did not get to enjoy the unique Model X for very long. After changing hands many times, the car was bought in derelict condition by Duesenberg Club historian Allen Sandburg. He put the car in storage and eventually sold it to William Dreist. Although Dreist, had the intention to fully restore the one-off Duesenberg but never got around to start the work in the three decades he owned it. In the late 1990s, he found a new custodian for the car; University Professor and noted collector Peter Heydon.
Heydon immediately submitted the car to a complete restoration by period expert Brian Joseph. Much effort was put into finding the correct colours and fortunately a sample was found at the cowl vents. All the bright-work was nickel-plated and the interior re-upholstered. The 'Boat Roadster' restoration took a staggering 2½ years and that showed in the end-result. Since 2000, Heydon has shown the car at prestigious events around the world, winning numerous awards. Among them was 'Best of Show' at the 2000 Auburn Cord Duesenberg Club Reunion. It is seen here at the 2010 Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este where it duly won its class.
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Model X McFarlan Boat Roadster
