1916 Pierce-Arrow Model 48 Touring

This particular example is a seven-passenger Touring car that was specially ordered without jump seats by Albert Swabacher. Mr. Swabacher was a banker who spent his free time at a dude ranch he owned in the Teton Mountains. This Pierce Model 48 was kept at this ranch and was used for chauffeured hunting and fishing trips. During its early years, it was converted into a sort of 'motor home' with a bed in the back where Mr. Swabacher would camp out during the hunt.

The car remained in Mr. Swabacher's care until his passing in 1963. Ownership then passed to Roy Leiske of Wisconsin. The third owner purchased the car in the mid-2000s. An exhaustive two-year restoration to original condition began a short time later. The car is finished in maroon and black, contrasted by natural rubber tires. It is equipped with a trunk as well as with straps under the top, designed to carry the occupants' hats.

Under the bonnet is a 525 cubic-inch T-head six-cylinder engine offering 48 horsepower. There is a four-speed selective sliding-gear manual transmission and rear-wheel mechanical drum brakes. The wheelbase measures 142 inches.

In 2013, the car was offered for sale at RM Auction's Scottsdale, Az. sale. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $181,500 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2019