1933 Pierce-Arrow Model 1236 Twelve Club Sedan

Pierce-Arrow was one of the 'Three Ps', along with Packard and Peerless. From 1910 through 1928 their vehicles had been powered by T-head sixes. In 1929, a straight-eight replaced the sixes and featured a less complicated and less expensive L-head configuration. The public reacted positively and sales doubled over the prior year. As the Great Depression came into view, the cylinder war between the auto manufacturers continued to grow, with twelve- and sixteen-cylinders dominating the battlefield.

Pierce-Arrow's chief engineer, Karl Wise, was tasked with keeping the company relevant by designing a new V-12 engine. The new powerplant was given an unusual 80-degree angle between the cylinder banks and a cast iron crankcase to which the cylinder blocks were bolted (many of the competing automakers used aluminum). The wide vee angle offered easy access to the valve train and it aided in minimizing vibration. The new engine made its debut in late 1931 for the 1932 model year.

Hydraulic tappets were introduced in 1933. The famous endurance driver Ab Jenkins was working for Pierce-Arrow during this time as an experimental engineer and test driver. He raised the prestige of the company and promoted their product by driving a twelve-cylinder roadster for 24 hours, averaging 112.91 miles per hour. Similar runs were made later that year. In 1934, a new record, internationally recognized by the FIA in Paris, was set at an average speed of 127.

With a quality product, a solid reputation, and endurance records to its name, the Pierce-Arrow marque was poised for greatness. Unfortunately, the effects of the Great Depression were too profound. In 1937, just 167 cars were sold. In May of 1938, the company assets were liquidated at auction. The V-12 engine production would endure; it was used in Seagrave fire apparatus until 1970.

This Pierce-Arrow Model 1236 wears a Club Sedan body. It was restored in the early 2000s and is believed to be a California car from new. After the restoration work was completed, it was shown at several California Concours d'Elegance events. The current owner acquired the car in 2010.

In 2012 the car was offered for sale at the Quail Lodge Sale in Carmel, CA presented by Bonhams. The car was estimated to sell for $100,000 - $125,000. As bidding came to a close, the car failed to find a buyer willing to satisfy its reserve. It would leave the auction unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2012