1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 42 Sport Tourer

For 1931, Pierce-Arrow offered the Model 41, 42, and 43. The Model 41 had a 147-inch platform, while the Model 42 had a 142-inch wheelbase. The Model 43 came in two sizes, a 134- and 137-inch size. All three had an eight-cylinder engine, ranging from 125 to 132 HP.

The four-passenger Pierce-Arrow Model 42 Sport Phaeton was new in 1931 and sold new for $3,785. This example has had just four owners from new and currently shows about 15,000 miles. The car is painted in a two-tone Forest Green/Kelly Green exterior color scheme. The car's history includes parade duty, and it was properly outfitted to perform this task with its fold-down windshield and wind wings and aluminum framing, heavy-duty solid bumpers, a deleted rear footrest (allowing better standing) and the substitution of the usual side-mounted spare tires for a rear-mounted spare tire.

The car is believed to have carried New York's then-Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt and Al Smith, a former New York Governor (1923-1928), to the landmark opening of the George Washington Bridge on October 24, 1931.

Ed and Dot Mueller purchased this Pierce from Mr. Walker's estate in 1946. During their ownership, the car also received new top and side curtains, with the latter stowed within the original storage case. Next, Dr. Richard Schultz of Fort Lauderdale acquired the Pierce before the current owner purchased it in 1996.

This car has never been completely restored. It has been repainted once, the wire-spoke wheels were powder-coated, the wheel trim rings were re-plated, a new set of double universal whitewall tires with new flaps and tubes was installed, and the engine received a new water-jacket cover. Period features found on this car include an original Pierce-Arrow radiator stone guard, Trippe lights with leveling bubbles, rare original headlight lenses, an iconic 'archer' radiator mascot, a regular hood cap, a fold-down windshield, and wind wings.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale at the Hershey, PA sale presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $130,000 - $170,000. Bidding reached $105,000 but was not enough to satisfy the vehicle's reserve. It would leave the auction unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2011