Vehicle Description
Pierce-Arrow's origins go well back to the middle 1800s when the
company was known as Heintz, Pierce, and Munchauer. Based in
Buffalo, New York, the firm produced household goods such as
birdcages and iceboxes, all to a very high standard of quality. In
1872, George N. Pierce bought out his partners, and renamed it the
George N. Pierce Company, shifting focus to bicycles and, by 1900,
a steam-powered automobile. The steam car was a failure, so Pierce
and his team returned to the drawing board and designed a small
buggy with a French De Dion petrol engine. The "Motorette" proved
to be a success, selling 150 examples. In just a few short years,
Pierce would join the ranks of the most exclusive luxury automobile
manufacturers in America. The "Three Ps" of Packard, Pierce-Arrow,
and Peerless built the finest motorcars of the era, known for their
grand scale and locomotive-like quality. These automobiles were the
choice for any wealthy industrialist or socialite looking to make a
bold statement. Much of Pierce-Arrow's success lies with David
Fergusson who served as the company's chief engineer for nearly two
decades, leading the firm to the pinnacle of luxury car
manufacturing in the teens and twenties. By 1909 the company was
officially known as Pierce-Arrow, and they proved their worth by
winning five Glidden Tours in a row. Their cars grew in scale and
prestige, with the list of innovations including cast aluminum
coachwork, hydraulic tappets, and later, power-assisted braking.
1913 saw the introduction of Pierce-Arrow's most notable design
element - the fender-mounted electric headlamps. This patented
design by Herbert Dawley allowed for more effective lighting while
also giving Pierce one of their most distinguishing features. On
the mechanical side, Fergusson continually developed his
six-cylinder engines, with the big Models 48 and 66 being the most
powerful cars on the market. After Fergusson's departure and the
arrival of new management, Pierce-Arrow remained committed to
quality, and in 1920 they introduced an entirely new model,
designed to simplify the line while still delivering the quality
and prestige customers demanded. The Model 32 shared one chassis
across the entire range, with a manageable selection of ten body
styles, all made in-house of cast aluminum. Before the Model 32,
there were some sixty possible combinations of body and chassis
available. Pierce-Arrow finally moved away from right-hand-drive,
and the 414 cubic-inch dual-valve inline-six was now of Monobloc
construction. The Model 32 and its successor (Model 33) continued
Pierce Arrow's impeccable reputation for quality and prestige in
American motorcars into the 1920s. Sitting proudly near the top of
Pierce-Arrow's 1921 lineup, this magnificent Model 32 Vestibule
Suburban was one of the most expensive, prestigious automobiles
available in its day. As the name implies, the intended use was to
shuttle wealthy owners between their city and country dwellings,
and the eye-watering $9,000 price tag ensured exclusivity. This car
has enjoyed long-term ownership with a Brass and Nickel Era
enthusiast, and it presents in marvelous condition, with a
beautifully detailed restoration. Finished in dark blue with a
complimentary dark blue interior, this beautiful Pierce-Arrow has a
commanding presence, riding on an impressive 138" wheelbase
chassis. The coachwork is indicative of the quality and precision
Pierce-Arrow, with beautifully fitted panels and superb nickel
plated fittings. The dark blue paintwork is understated yet
elegant, suiting the car's intended purpose. Paint quality is
excellent, with deep gloss on all surfaces and only a few minor
imperfections found that are appropriate for the age of the
restoration. Details such as the Pierce mascot, nickel-plated
radiator shell, and correct fluted headlamps point to a
high-quality restoration. The cabin restoration is up to the same
high standards, with beautiful navy blue leather and carpets
presenting in excellent condition. The seats show very little in
the way of wear and creasing, consistent with the car's limited
recent use. Rear passengers enjoy fabric roller blinds on all
windows and fold-away opera seats which allow for up to seven
passengers to ride in comfort. The quality of the upholstery is
exemplary, with high-grade materials used throughout the interior.
Pierce-Arrow designed the instrument panel with the chauffeur in
mind. Clearly labeled switches and simple, bold instruments sit
neatly arranged in the center of the dash for simple operation on
the go, and this is one of Pierce-Arrows earliest models with
left-hand drive and center shifting. Under the hood rests the
mighty 414 cubic-inch "Dual Valve" inline-six. The engine features
twin ignition, and a single-casting for the cylinder block, in
place of the traditional cast pairs of earlier T-head engines. The
big six is rated at 32 horsepower and revered for its superior
refinement and effortless torque. Following a period of disuse, the
car received a light recommissioning with new fluids and complete
chassis lubrication. Under-hood presentation is excellent, with
period-correct fittings, wiring, and paint finishes. In 2011, this
car earned a class award at the Concours d'Elegance of America, and
it remains in superb condition, worthy of further enjoyment as a
beautiful tour car, or for use in concours events and shows. In its
day, few cars could match Pierce-Arrow for their presence, quality,
and unmistakable styling, and the Model 32 stands among the
greatest motorcars of the era. Offers Welcome and Trades Considered