For Sale: 1932 Pierce-Arrow 52 in Morgantown, Pennsylvania

1932 Pierce Arrow Model 52 Convertible Sedan

"Another page to find in car history. In the first few moments of demonstration, any model of the New Twelve line registers as a brilliant example of engineering discovery and creation. No other fine cars are like or even comparable...none has so completely harnessed and controlled the amazing power of twelve cylinders...or made this power so obedient to every wish and whim of silent, luxurious motoring" From a 1932 print ad, showing pricing of various "twelves" at $3,295 to $4,500 when a Ford Model A was about $450.

For consignment, 1932 Pierce Arrow Model 52 Convertible Sedan showing 36,625 miles, but the true miles are unknown. Elegance, opulence, and pure panache, this was the top of the proverbial automotive food chain in 1932.

Exterior
If you think one color would do for the ultra affluent, think again. In line with the times but on a more opulent scale is the play of Tan and Brown on this enormous, make that gigantic automobile. And it's not just the alternating colors, but everything is scaled up on this car, from the big headlights up front and spectacular 18-inch painted wooden spoke wheels to the rear trunk and articulated fenders connected by wide running boards. The tan canvas roof extends over the long cabin, providing a small glass window in back but drivers will likely rely more on the two side mirrors that are attached to the side spare wheels with chrome clamps. Up front, it's a symmetrical dreamscape with six different lights, two horns, a large and stately grille, all underscored by the chrome bumper. Imperfections on this classic include a patch of black, chips throughout including on panel edges, chipped paint on the windscreen frame, scuffs, scratches, and off color touch ups.

Interior
Artfully crafted leather door panels are topped by decorative wooden headers and metal hardware, and the mottled pattern is transferred onto the bench seats, the front of which shows a touch of age and light wear. Rear passengers are afforded a robe loop, map pockets in the doors, and wood fronted compartments on the side walls. For the driver, a proper black steering wheel fronts a fancy dashboard with turned metal faceplate housing black faced gauges while ride control levers reside to the right, all under a leather padded dash header. Tan carpet covers the floor while the mottled leather lines the footwells.

Drivetrain
Clean conditions are found behind the vented engine covers as we gaze upon the glossy black 429ci V12 with a 2-barrel carburetor and capable of 150 horsepower, for comparison, the Model A put out 40hp. The car is moved via a floor mounted shifter over the 3-speed manual transmission and power is routed to the rear wheels and 4.21 gears. The car operates on a 12 volt system.

Undercarriage
The liberal use of brown paint helps create a tidy underside and conditions are clean with minor signs of use. Mechanical drum brakes are at all four wheels and leaf spring suspension is utilized at both ends. A single exhaust travels the distance and through a stock style muffler before exiting out back.

Drive-Ability
Home, James! Sorry, we know it's gauche, but we couldn't resist, because even in the driver's seat, you feel kingly in this beast of a car. With the right mix of choke and spark, the V12 comes to life, and the car accelerates smoothly onto the test loop with an acre of hood ahead us and pretty good distance to the rear. The tall white wall tires and leaf springs absorb every imperfection in the road, and the sheer size and seats help buffer noise and vibration. Other than the clock, all functions operate as intended and it's time to clear some space in the mall to place this one under the lights. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.

According to the Pierce Arrow Society, after bankruptcy in 1938, the company's paperwork, records, design plans, and blueprints were hauled away by the truckful for scrap paper and there is no way to accurately state production figures. It is known that most models saw less than 1,000 built, often less than 200 units. In any case, this is the cream of the crop and one of the finest American cars in automotive history. We're going to assume you have space if you've read this far, but just in case, know that this car is 17 feet long.

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price. All prices are before state, city and county tax, tag, title and license fees. Out of state buyers are responsible for all state, county, city taxes and fees, as well as title/registration fees in the state that the vehicle will be registered. Classic Auto Mall is not responsible for errors and omissions. Please verify listings with dealer. Vehicles may require VIN verification and/or safety and emissions inspections to transfer ownership and register the vehicle in the declared state of residence. Please check with your local DMV office to ensure compliance with your states titling and registration process.

With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!