1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 43 Club Sedan

This 1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 43 Club Sedan has been given a Concours-quality restoration by White Post Restorations. It was given a rare high-speed differential by the legendary restorer and racing driver Phil Hill.

The Model 43 was an attempt by Pierce-Arrow to move down market and stimulate sales. Several other marques were attempting the same practice, such as Packard. For Pierce-Arrow, 1929 would be a record year with each subsequent year marking a decline in sales and bringing the demise of the company closer into sight. The Great Depression was responsible for this decline and many marques would endure a similar fate.

This car has been driven a mere 500 miles since its 1990 restoration. It has been awarded an AACA Grand National Award in 1998 and Senior Grand National Award in 2002. A CCCA Primary was awarded in 2000 and a Senior in 2001 followed by a Premier in 2002. It took first place at Pierce-Arrow club meets in 1997 and 2001.

The car is painted tan and white and rides on wide whitewall tires and painted wire wheels. There are two side-mounted spares, a matching trunk, and a rear luggage rack. The interior is white and is also in good condition.

In 2008, this car was brought to the 2nd Annual Vintage Motor Cars of Hershey presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $90,000-$120,000. Those estimates were proven accurate when the bidding reached $93,500 including the buyer's premium. The lot was sold.

In 2009, it was again offered for sale, this time at the Gooding & Company Pebble Beach Auction. It was estimated to sell for $100,000 - $125,000. As bidding came to a close, the lot had been sold for $107,250, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2010