1911 Pierce-Arrow Model 66A Runabout

The Pierce-Arrow 66 was the company's largest model and was among the largest American cars ever produced. The T-head six-cylinder engine displaced 824.7 cubic inches and was among the largest engines ever placed into an American production car. They had large 27-inch wheels with 37-inch tires. Produced from 1910 through 1918, it is estimated that a mere 14 examples remain in existence.

This particular example was restored by Don C. Boulton. The project began with a correct Model 66 frame and 1913 Model 66 engine which was both acquired in California. The 66-horsepower car with serial number 66750 was originally registered to a George Needham of Brooklyn, NY. The body was produced to Mr. Boulton's specifications by a craftsman in Northern California, using the correct Pierce method of cast aluminum panels. Much of the restoration was completed by the Pierce specialist Allan Schmidt of Horseless Carriage Restoration in Escondido, California. Mr. Schmidt performed the work between 2001 and 2002. For safety and ease of use, the car was given disc brakes on the rear axle, and a Gearvender overdrive was fitted.

This Runabout is finished in burgundy with gold striping and a black top with burgundy lining. It has the correct belly pans, a folding windshield, and a set of Rushmore headlamps and Solar cowl lamps, converted to electric operation along with the addition of a starter motor. There is an electric horn, Warner Auto-Meter combination odometer/speedometer, and Chelsea 8-day clock, overseen by an instrument light.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2019