1932 Pierce-Arrow Model 53

The venerable Pierce-Arrow marque enjoyed a long and prosperous history prior to the Classic Era, manufacturing some of the most extraordinary motor cars during its existence. Among the memorable models were the Great-Arrow, the 38, 48, and the mighty 66. They were the choice of United States presidents and one of the world's premier automobiles. They remained perched at the pinnacle of the American fine car market throughout the 1920s, along with Peerless and Packard, representing one of the legendary 'Three Ps.'

In desperate financial need to fund the development of new models, Pierce-Arrow merged with Studebaker in 1928, which, along with an influx of cash, also provided the resources for a new eight-cylinder engine in 1929, finally shedding the long-standing reliance on six-cylinder power. Prosperity was short-lived as the infamous stock market crash and Great Depression wreaked havoc on the luxury car market. At the same time, manufacturers went 'all in,' introducing some of the finest automobiles ever created. They were large, long, and luxurious with engines having upwards of sixteen cylinders. Pierce-Arrow added a V12 powerplant to its line in late 1931, but like most automakers, was unable to weather the poor economic conditions and found it difficult to make a profit. Within two short years, Pierce-Arrow was in receivership, along with its co-partner Studebaker. A group of Buffalo, New York-based investors speculated on the company's potential and bought in, buying the ill-fated company a few more years before it would eventually close its doors in 1938.

The 1932 Pierce-Arrow
Pierce-Arrow offered one model with eight-cylinder power and two with twelve-cylinder power. The Model 54 was the sole eight-cylinder model and offered with either a 137- or 142-inch wheelbase. Prices ranged from $2,650 to $2,950 for the 137-inch version and $2,850 to $2,950 for the larger platform. The 366 cubic-inch L-head eight-cylinder engine had a single Stromberg UUR 2 carburetor and offered 125 horsepower at 3,800 RPM. It had a three-speed transmission, four-wheel servo-assisted drum brakes, and a semi-elliptic leaf spring suspension.

The Model 53 rested on a 137- and 142-inch wheelbase with prices that ranged from $3,185 to $3,750 for the shorter platform and $3,550 to $3,750 for the larger. The L-head V-12 engine displaced 429 cubic inches and offered approximately 150 horsepower. It had a solid front axle, a live rear axle, and semi-elliptic leaf springs all around. Four-wheel mechanical drum brakes provided the stopping power.

The Model 51 combined the potent twelve-cylinder engine with the substantial 147-inch wheelbase usually intended for sedans and limousines.

by Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2023