1931 Pierce-Arrow Model differences

I notice your definition of 1931 Pierces omits the earliest models, the Salon Models group, introduced in September 1930 to coincide with the annual Automobile Salon show season publicity (predating the annual automobile shows). Pierce identified them as 1931 models but they have 1930 factory chassis specifications with special trim (including the Isotta Fraschini tweak of a radiator screen). Still, new series-custom models such as the new LeBaron convertible victoria were introduced then, too, on 1930 wheelbases, later reintroduced in calendar 1931 with changed chassis. Others, such as a one-off 1930-style factory convertible version, fitted with Salon Model trim, add to make Pierce’s definition of 1931 especially interesting.

You might check Bernie Weis’ Arrow coverage of 1931 models for his view of this.  I would also suggest taking a look at some the historic newspapers now posted on line, such as on the Library of Congress’ (loc.gov) Chronicling America or the New York State Historical newspapers (nyshistoricnewspapers.org). I like to think the digital formatting of newspaper pages offers a view of Pierce-Arrow in real time.

Hope this helps

Brooks

The Data Book pages are interesting but leave out the first 1931 Salon Models made in the Fall of 1930.

Branham’s reference guide, copies are at the AACA Library and Research Center, details what happened at the turn of the 1930-1931 model year. Pierce-Arrow appears to have been surprised at the November New York Automobile Salon by the new 145-inch wheelbases of Lincoln and Marmon – one inch longer than the longest Pierce Model A – so quickly revised dimensions of all chassis, making the longest 1931 chassis produced in 1931 have a 147-inch wheelbase. Suggesting the Data Book version above was compiled after Pierce made the dimension changes.

I’ve made a copy of the Branham pages but they resist attachment so need to follow up by sending it separately.

I should add a Salon Model sedan was sent to the English dealer in late 1930 (at the time a Salon Model-trimmed convertible went to the Paris Motor Show), but did not sell and was advertised by Henleys showroom in March 1931 as a demonstrator. It survived the war to become part of the Petit Pozzoli Collection in Paris in the 1960s. I am not sure what has happened after that, and hope someone can update the survivor story.

I hope this helps

Brooks

I notice the Branham pages are not attaching; will try again later.

Brooks

Branham pages that Brooks was referencing.  As this is a jpg file, it should be loaded as an image.

Alan,

We’ve had our ’31 Model 42 5p Sedan for 27 years and have driven it to MANY Annual Meets.  We also owned a ’29 133 Club Sedan for 20 years and I agree with Ed that the ’31 is a much better car.  Primary is the Ross Steering box which replaced the Gemmer.  Another nice thing is the synchromesh on second and third.  We have a very late production Model 42 and it got the ’32 tranny as a running change.  Models 41 and 42 have the big engine with counterweights on the crankshaft.  All the ’31s are equipped with free-wheeling but I don’t think anyone uses it because the brakes aren’t powered.  To get power brakes you have to buy a ’33.

Good hunting!

Bill