The eight-cylinder Model 840A sat neatly in the middle of Pierce-Arrow’s lineup between the mid-market 836A and the flagship, twelve-cylinder 1240/1250A. Due to financial constraints in the early 1930s, Pierce-Arrow was late to the party with their L-head engine design, sticking to their trusty T-Head sixes long after the competition had moved on. For their loyal customers, the new engine was worth the wait, with the 1928 merger with Studebaker injecting much-needed cash to allow Pierce to develop an entirely new range of cars. The superb L-head unit made 140 horsepower by 1934, and offered impressive performance; premium features, including nine main bearings, ensured the quality and high levels of refinement expected from a prestigious name like Pierce-Arrow.

Presented in a striking shade of French Blue with light blue accents, this Model 840A Brougham is a charming example of this rare Pierce-Arrow model. At the time of writing, the Pierce-Arrow Society lists just 66 840As in their vehicle roster. This five-passenger Brougham recently emerged from an extensive collection, and it is well preserved with an appealing overall patina earned through years of enjoyment. Period accessories include dual side-mounted spares with matching painted covers, a trunk rack, wire wheels, Archer mascot, and dual Pilot-Ray driving lamps. The tan interior trim provides a pleasing complement to the blue paintwork, with period-appropriate fabrics, carpet, and wood accents on the dash and door panels. Original instruments and controls are all in fine order.

Powering this Pierce-Arrow is the 385-cubic-inch L-head inline-eight, considered by many to be among the finest engines of the era, delivering its impressive output with impeccable refinement. A Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) Full Classic, this car’s timeless blend of capability and style would make it an excellent choice for CCCA CARavan tours or similar events, where its power and poise are best appreciated.