| Exterior Color: Two-Tone Blue Interior Color: Blue Doors: 0
For 1929, Pierce-Arrow developed a new and thoroughly modern inline eight-cylinder engine. The new eight was significantly lighter than the large T-head six that it replaced, the design of which had its roots in the Brass Era. With an output of 125 horsepower, this new engine also provided a healthy 25 percent more power from fewer cubic inches, as well as smooth, vibration-free running. The reward for Pierce was that 1929 was the best-ever year for the company, with nearly 10,000 cars sold. That optimism and momentum paved the way into 1930.
Models for that year were very simply designated as the Models A, B, and C which were offered on four wheelbases and with three sizes of engines. The Model B proved very popular, as it used the same 125-horsepower eight that had driven such strong sales from the previous year. It featured Pierce-Arrow’s trademark conservative yet elegant styling and superb interior appointments, as well as the company’s famous “fender lights,” which were not legal in all markets, leading conventional bracket-mounted headlights to remain a no-cost option.
The handsome, two-tone blue Model B Tonneau Cowl Phaeton featured here is a lovely car with a long, rich history in the Pierce-Arrow Society, dating back to the 1950s. It is believed that its present body was installed in the early 1960s though inspection of the body reveals some original woodwork in the floors, indicating that it may be an original phaeton body and the second cowl and windshield was added, though this is not recorded in PAS records. Regardless of its origin, the design of the body is certainly authentic and very attractive, including the sweeping beltline molding and luxurious leather trimmed cabin.
This lovely example was once part of the collection of well-known New York-based Pierce Arrow Society and CCCA member and has more recently been in the hands of other enthusiastic collectors. The car wears an older restoration, but the two-tone blue paint work remains very attractive, and presents a nice counterpoint to the dark blue leather interior. Extensive chrome trim is in very good condition all around. Slate gray painted wire wheels complement the blue body and are dressed with chrome trim rings and hub caps, and of course a set of period appropriate wide-whitewall tires. A matching slate gray coach stripe ties the theme together rather nicely. Among the many desirable options and accessories included are dual side-mounted spares with polished covers, dual Trippe Safety Lights, wind wings, a chrome radiator stone guard, Archer mascot, and both side curtains and a soft boot for the convertible top. The top, trimmed in canvas, fits nicely and appears in good condition, with a restored frame and hardware, though some minor staining can be seen. The interior is likewise in good overall condition, with only mild cracking apparent in the leather which serves to add a welcoming, comfortable patina. Under the long hood rests the famous Pierce Eight-Cylinder engine which shows in good overall condition, tidy and detailed but not fussy. It shows signs of use and regular maintenance, appearing functional and usable as a tour car.
A beautiful example of a classic design, this wonderful Pierce-Arrow would certainly make a statement on the road, draw plenty of attention at local or hobby level shows, and be an outstanding, comfortable tour car for its new owner.
Reference Number 393222
as of 4/13/2016
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