1933 Pierce-Arrow Model 1247 Convertible Sedan

This 1933 Pierce-Arrow Model 1247 Convertible Sedan wears coachwork by LeBaron with styling cues inspired by the 1931 Model 41 chassis. The straight-through beltline molding was reminiscent of the Raymond Dietrich designs used on Lincoln Model KBs of the era. Wind cheating design cues include the relatively low roofline, sleek profile, rounded lines, and vee'd front radiator.

There are currently five convertible sedans in existence including this example. The earliest known owner was Maurice Weinstein of University City, Missouri who reportedly acquired it at the estate auction of a wealthy Missourian. It is believed the car may have once been owned by the Governor of Missouri and had been kept at the Governor's Mansion for many years.

Mr. Weinstein displayed the Pierce-Arrow on several occasions including at the Midwest grand Classic in Indianapolis in 1966 where it scored 91.5 points (while still in original condition). After a decade, Mr. Weinstein sold the car to Sonny Abagnale of New Jersey who, in turn, passed the car in 1983 to the publisher of the Los Angeles Times, Otis Chandler.

The car remained in Mr. Chandler's care for only a brief period of time, being sold in the 1980s to Tom Barrett. Mr. Barrett refinished the body, which is believed to, until that point, have worn its original paint. In 1988, the car was sold to Knox Kershaw and has remained in his care ever since that time.

Mr. Kershaw treated the car to an engine rebuild and mechanical restoration, after which it scored 98.5 points, achieving its Primary First Prize, in CCCA National judging in 1991. The car participated in events such as the CCCA's Pacific Northwest CARavan of 1994 and the 'CARavan 2000.' In 2010 it was displayed at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

This car is powered by a 462 cubic-inch, L-head, V-12 engine with a single Stromberg carburetor and develops 175 horsepower. There is a three-speed manual transmission, semi-elliptical leaf spring suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2021