1932 Pierce-Arrow Eight Model 54 Convertible Sedan

366ci, L-head 8-Cylinder Engine
125hp at 3,800rpm
3-Speed Transmission
Semi-Elliptic Leaf Springs Front and Rear
4-Wheel Servo-Assisted Drum Brakes

*Renowned marque
*Desirable Convertible sedan bodywork.
*Beautiful Older restoration
*From a private collection.
*CCCA Full Classic

THE PIERCE-ARROW

Some idea of the rapidity of Pierce-Arrow's rise may be gauged from the fact that as early as 1909 The White House ordered two for state occasions. From then onwards Pierce-Arrow would be synonymous with the ultimate in motoring luxury, ranking alongside Cadillac, Packard and Rolls-Royce.

With its prestige and identity firmly established, Pierce-Arrow prospered into the 'teens and early 1920s. But the company would soon begin to slip. It clung to its large six-cylinder engines, some of which still used the by now antiquated T-head design, even as competitors almost universally adopted eight-cylinder powerplants. At the same time, Pierce-Arrow styling remained stiffly formal and overly conservative, while other prestige nameplates pursued the art deco flamboyance that was increasingly coming into style as the Roaring '20s sped on.

Pierce-Arrow was already developing an eight-cylinder engine by the time its directors voted to accept a merger offer from Studebaker Corp. in 1928. At first, it seemed to be a marriage made in heaven. The 1929 eight-cylinder Pierce-Arrows that soon ushered forth were affordable, stylish and fast—and they sold like the proverbial hotcakes. With 1929 sales soaring, an ambitious custom-body program was planned for the 1930 Pierce-Arrow chassis. The classically proportioned 1931 Pierce-Arrows had longer wheelbases than earlier models.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This particular 8-cylinder Pierce Arrow was built in 1932. It was fitted with convertible sedan bodywork. It features dual side mounts, pilot rays, wire wheels, and an integrated trunk with additional trunk rack. Pierce-Arrow were known for their bold styling, and this example features a raked back windshield with Pierce-Arrow distinctive integral fender-mounted headlights. It has been in the consignor's care since 2008, where it has had an honored place in the collection of various other prewar American motorcars.

Today the car presents well with a very nice older restoration. It is finished in the striking color scheme of yellow with black fenders, and deep red leather upholstery. The owner reports that he has kept the car 'on the button' and it has been shown on occasion at CCCA events. At its last showing it scored 95 points, a good score for an older restoration. The car was also awarded a vehicle of distinction award at the Atlanta Concours in 2019. It is also reported to be driving very well.

Pierce-Arrow is one of the great automotive manufacturers of the classic period. They are renowned for their build quality and are incredibly good touring cars. This convertible sedan would be an excellent car for CCCA caravans, AACA tours, or as an entrant on the show field.