The sportiest and most powerful model that one could get from the Pierce-Arrow factory in the late 1920s was the Model 33 Runabout, a robust two-seater built on the same 138-inch-wheelbase chassis and with the same brawny 70-horsepower T-head six used for larger touring cars and limousines. The result was truly spirited performance that made this model especially desirable among enthusiasts of its day; consider it a high-end hot rod for American aristocrats. Today, it is considered one of the all-time great Classic Era Pierces and is fiercely sought after among collectors.

WONDERFULLY PRESERVED

The Pierce-Arrow Society (PAS) records two prior owners for this Model 33, the first of which was Horace Little, of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. A parking sticker on the windshield for the Sea Pines Plantation resort indicates that the car was driven at least occasionally on the island during his ownership. It was sold after his 2001 passing to George Geers, a successful Concord, New Hampshire, businessman and politician and longtime PAS member, from whose estate Richard Roy acquired the car 10 years later. Amusing letters on file note that Mr. Roy had been contacted by a representative of the Geers Estate, knowing that he would be just the right owner for a fine original Pierce!

The paint on the body is believed to be original and, aside from the typical minor cracking on the cowl, is very presentable, with a wonderful gloss of age. The black leather interior is amazing and original, having been largely preserved by “summer covers” installed decades ago, and it is far too wonderful to replace. An interesting feature is the original armrest that installs between the cushions, dividing the interior into two cozy armchairs. Similarly, the rumble seat has scarcely been used over the years and has what is believed to be its original synthetic leather upholstery (often used in rumble seats to prevent weather wear) and carpeting, in fine order. The top is a replacement but is to the correct design and uses the proper beveled rear window. The original black side curtains are included but are in poor condition.

The dashboard is in good order, with its original Waltham gauges intact. The odometer records 31,703 miles, a reading that, based upon the car’s condition, may well be original. Under the hood is clean, presentable, and authentic in all regards, although the car has not been operated in some years and will require servicing before taking to the road once more. Under the car is very solid. The car is fitted with its original serial number tag, on which the engine number, 340987, matches both the stamping on the crankcase (“340987”) and the stamping on a flange at the bottom of the oil pan (“987”). All proper hardware appears to be present, including the motometer on the radiator shell, the taillight, the rear “bumperettes,” and the single rear-mounted spare with its mounting bracket.

The Pierce-Arrow Model 33 Runabout is one of the great highlights of the Roy Collection. Beautifully preserved in almost entirely original condition, it is likely the most authentic survivor of its type and deserves a home in which it will be rejuvenated, driven, and thoroughly enjoyed as-is. Come to think of it, it would still look right at home on the seaside roads of Hilton Head!