1933 Pierce-Arrow Model 1247

Pierce-Arrow offered four series during the 1933 model year - the straight-eight Model 836 and the V12-powered Models 1236, 1242, and 1247. Pierce-Arrow's most prestigious chassis was the 147-inch wheelbase Model 1247 powered by the 80-degree L-head V12 engine with cast iron blocks and aluminum heads. It had a reputation for its power, reliability, and smoothness - along with its success powering record-setters on the Bonneville Salt Flats. Ab Jenkins drove a V-12 roadster to a 24-hour average speed of 112.91 mph, repeatedly raising the mark to an ultimate 127 mph by 1934.

The Model 1247 was available on both a 142- and 147-inch platform. Fifteen catalog body styles were available including nine on the large 147-inch platform. The 462 cubic-inch, 80-degree, L-head V-12 engine powering the Model 1247 used dual downdraft carburetors, a cast-iron block, and aluminum heads, developing 175 horsepower at 3,400 PRM. The engine was backed by a three-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh, braking by four-wheel servo-assisted Mechanical drums, and a suspension comprised of live axles, semi-elliptic leaf springs, and shock absorbers. Prices on the Model 1247 ranged from the low $4,000s to over $7,000.

The Model 1247 was renowned for its smooth, reliable, and powerful engine with horsepower figures that exceeded most other manufacturers, with the exception of Duesenberg. Despite Pierce-Arrows' prominent placement within the White House vehicle fleet, the Model 1247 remained a very exclusive automobile, with production limited to the most discerning and capable buyer.

by Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2019