From the company’s beginning in 1901, excellent engineering and legendary design made Pierce-Arrow a leader in the luxury car market. As one of the storied “Three Ps,” Pierce-Arrow joined Packard and Peerless as the highest quality American cars of the period. Nevertheless, during the 1920s, Pierce-Arrow faced great pressure from other manufacturers, which were beginning to adopt more modern production techniques, thereby reducing their overall costs. Conversely, while Pierce-Arrow sales were quite good, its low production volume and more traditional, labor-intensive production techniques limited the company’s ability to compete in the rapidly evolving automotive market.

In response to this pressure, Pierce-Arrow launched the Model 80 in 1924 as a somewhat smaller and less complex companion model to its Dual Valve Six model line. With continuous engineering improvements over the years, the Model 80 boasted an advanced, four-wheel vacuum-powered brake system by 1927. Changes for 1928 were minimal, with the Model 80 renamed Model 81, and further distinguished by smaller headlamps. In addition, a new emblem, reputedly the Pierce family crest, was displayed on Pierce-Arrow radiators for 1928, until Mrs. Percy Pierce correctly pointed out that it was not the actual crest of the George N. Pierce family.

A technically advanced and very attractive luxury automobile, Pierce-Arrow built nearly 5,000 Series 81 models in 1928, and they remain highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The Model 81 offered here presents exceptionally well. With a rich wool broadcloth interior as befitting such a high-end automobile, exceptional interior fixtures with an Art Nouveau floral motif, beautiful black paint, wooden artillery wheels, and the iconic Archer mascot, this CCCA Full Classic would be an elegant addition to any automobile collection.