1933 Pierce-Arrow Model 836 Enclosed Drive Limousine

The Pierce-Arrow company was founded in Buffalo, New York in 1865 manufacturing everything from ice boxes and birdcages to bathtubs and bicycles. They built their first car in 1901 and in 1903 introduced the Arrow. The Arrow was followed by the Great Arrow which had cast aluminum body panels and a 93-inch wheelbase. This car, along with winning the first five Glidden Tours, helped secure the company's great reputation.

In 1909, the Pierce-Arrow became known as the car of Presidents when William H. Taft became the first president to use an automobile for official occasions. This tradition would continue until 1935.

This 1933 Pierce-Arrow Model 836 Limousine rides on an extended 139-inch wheelbase and was one of the last produced by Pierce in 1933. The car was delivered to a Korean prince who later lived in Japan and was used there until 1945 when it was put into storage. It was put into a private museum in Japan in 1980. The current owner acquired the car after it had been restored in New Zealand.

This 1933 Pierce-Arrow Series 836 Limousine rides on an extended 139-inch wheelbase. There were 2,152 Pierce-Arrows built in 1933, and this example was built near the close of 1933, as it was the 12th from the last created for that year. It is fitted with a 135-horsepower straight eight-cylinder engine that features hydraulic valve tappets, the first of its type in the industry, which promoted quiet operation and reduced maintenance.

In 2008, this elegant Limousine was offered for sale at the 'Quail Lodge, A Sale of Exceptional Motorcars and Automobilia' where it was estimated to sell for $90,000 - $125,000. A buyer willing to satisfy the car's reserve was not found, and the lot was left unsold.

This very late 1933 car, having been produced only 12 units before the end of Pierce-Arrow production for 1933, was delivered new to a Korean Prince during Japanese colonial rule. The car later accompanied him to Japan, where it was reportedly used until 1945 and then hidden away in a garage. This Formal Limousine remained in storage until 1980 when it was discovered and subsequently obtained by one of Japan's most prestigious private automotive museums. Later, the car went to New Zealand, where its paint, chrome, and interior were renewed while its mechanics and chassis were overhauled.

After being away for nearly 75 years, the car returned to the United States. Following the acquisition by the current owner, the car was thoroughly inspected and the repairs were made where needed. The electrical system was renewed, the various switches repaired or replaced, and a new battery was installed, spark plugs and an ignition cut-off switch was added. Other updates were done as needed.

In 2010, this Model 836 was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars of Meadow Brook event presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $75,000 - $100,000. Bidding reached $50,000 but was not enough to satisfy the car's reserve. It would remain unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2010