1910 Peerless Model 27

The Peerless Motor Car Company produced motorcars in Cleveland, Ohio from 1900 to 1931 and was known as one of the 'Three Ps,' sharing that distinction with Packard and Pierce-Arrow. They produced high-quality luxury automobiles and as the years progressed, produced increasingly higher-priced models. Innovations popularized by Peerless include drum brakes, fully-enclosed bodies, driveshafts, electric starters, and electric lights. They were one of the first companies to introduce electric lighting on their vehicles, with electric starters added in 1913. Their first V8 engine was introduced in 1915 and would remain the sole powerplant through 1925, the year a six-cylinder unit joined the lineup.

Along with being one of the most expensive luxury vehicles of their era, the Peerless vehicles set many international racing records with Barney Oldfield at the wheel. Despite their racing prowess, luxury accouterments, and social status, the Great Depression took a major toll on the company, and in 1931 Peerless ceased operations.

The 1910 Peerless Model 27 used a 118.5-inch wheelbase for the Roadster and Pony Tonneau, while the seven-passenger limousine, landaulet, and touring rested on a 122-inch wheelbase. The Demi-Limousine and close-coupled tourer also employed a 122-inch wheelbase. The Roadster, Pony Tonneau, Touring, and Close-Coupled tourer were priced at $4,300, the Demi-Limousine was $4,800, the Limousine at $5,500, and the Landaulet was $5,800. Power was from a four-cylinder T-head engine with a 410 cubic-inch displacement and developed 30 horsepower. It used a four-speed manual transmission and stopping power was by two-wheel mechanical drum brakes. The suspension used a solid front axle in the front with semi-elliptic leaf springs while the back had a platform set up with semi-elliptic leaf springs.

Peerless produced 1,325 in 1908, 1,618 in 1909, and 2,315 in 1910. Production dipped slightly to 2,118 units for 1911.

by Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2021