1919 Peerless Model 56

The Cleveland, Ohio-based Peerless Motor Car Company produced automobiles from 1900 to 1931, and enjoyed a period of rapid expansion from 1905 to 1907. They were an early pioneer of luxury and technology, and quickly established a reputation for catering to the luxury segment of the car market.

The Peerless Model 56 was powered by the company's first V-8 engine, introduced in 1916, and built to rival Cadillac's contemporary offering. The 331.8 cubic-inch V8 engine had side valves and was built by Herschell-Spillman. It would remain the only powerplant until a lower-priced Model 6-70 was introduced in 1925.

The 1919 Peerless Model 56 rested on a 125-inch wheelbase platform and was offered in five distinct body styles. The seven-passenger Touring and four-passenger roadster were priced at $2,760, the four-passenger coupe at $3,320, and the seven-passenger sedan at $3,520. The seven-passenger Sedan Limousine was the most expensive body style in the lineup at $3,720.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2025

Sold for $49,500 at 2024 RM Sothebys : Hershey.
This 1919 Peerless Model 56 Touring is powered by a 332 cubic-inch V8 engine delivering 34 horsepower. It has a red exterior over black fenders with black upholstery and a soft top. It rides on red-painted, 10-spoke 'artillery'-style wheels wrapped with wide whitewall tires. It has a 125-inch wheelbase chassis and open, seven-passenger touring coachwork with a black Victoria Landau convertible soft-top. It has been given a restoration, and period accoutrements include an opening windshield and driver's side spotlight.
By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2025