Eric Minoff
Vice President, Head of Department - US
LOT 198
1916 Pierce-Arrow Model 48 7 Passenger Touring Chassis no. 14656 Engine no. B4-3105
Estimate: US$150,000 - US$175,000
Lot 198
1916 Pierce-Arrow Model 48 7 Passenger Touring
1916 Pierce-Arrow Model 48 7 Passenger Touring
Chassis no. 14656
Engine no. B4-3105
Chassis no. 14656
Engine no. B4-3105
524ci T-Head 6-Cylinder Engine
48bhp
4-Speed Selective-Shift Manual Transmission
Semi-Elliptical Front Leaf Springs and Semi-Floating Rear Axle with ¾-Elliptic Leaf Springs
Rear-Wheel Drum Brakes
*Desirable "big horsepower" Pierce-Arrow
*Ideal for tours
*Nicely restored example
*The last of the brass era
THE PIERCE-ARROW MODEL 48
By the end of the Brass Era, Pierce-Arrow was widely considered one of the United States' most prestigious automakers, as one of the famous "Three P's" along with Packard and Peerless. The company's cars had become instantly identifiable from Herbert Dawley's distinctive, patented fender-mounted headlamps, a feature that Pierce can be credited with introducing to the American market.
The 1917 Pierce-Arrow Model 48-B-4 featured a massive 525-cubic-inch T-head inline six-cylinder engine with two valves per cylinder and hydraulic valve tappets, as well as a four-speed transmission with a reverse gear and shaft drive – all very modern for the end of the Brass Era, and good for a top speed of 55 mph in solid, luxurious comfort.
Many enthusiasts prefer these cars as "drivers," as they have abundant performance and are joys to drive. They are very popular in Pierce-Arrow Society activities and in tour events with the Vintage Motor Car and Antique Automobile Clubs of America, and can be seen in many of this country's most distinguished collections.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
This big-six Pierce features wonderful 7 passenger touring coachwork finished in beige with black fenders. It is reported to have been restored sometime in the 2000s and still shows in wonderful shape to this day with only mild wear to be found interior while the exterior gleams in the sunshine thanks to a modest bit of brass. Within the history file is thorough documentation of this work along with a photo of the vehicle before its refreshment. The consigner purchased the car in 2007 from the gentleman responsible for the restorative work. In his time with the car, the front hydraulic brakes were removed, and a double coil/distributer ignition was installed by Howard Lane. In addition, the 2nd set of spark plugs were moved to the opposite side of the engine block for a more complete ignition. The rear end was rebuilt and a new high-speed ratio was installed in order to aid touring usability. Lastly, the fuel tanking was professionally re-lined.
Inside, occupants are treated to a wonderful array of period brass ringed gauges from Westinghouse and U.S Gauges Company in conjunction with a set of well cushioned leather seats that will surely make for comfortable thrones when logging the miles on a tour.
With plenty of power thanks to no shortage of displacement, plenty of seating and a comfortable ride, the Pierce on offer is sure to make a welcome addition to any collection. Known for their quality, this open tourer should make for a dependable companion during vintage road events.
Saleroom notices
Please note, the title for this vehicle will be in transit.
Additional information
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