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A Journey Back to the Pinnacle of Luxury: The 1937 Pierce-Arrow 12

Stepping into the realm of the 1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 is akin to entering a gallery of pre-war automotive artistry. This vehicle is not just a mode of transportation; it's a statement of elegance and an engineering marvel of its era. Born from the ambitious minds at Pierce-Arrow, a company renowned for luxury and innovation, this car emerged during a time when the world was on the brink of monumental change. The Great Depression was receding, but global tensions were rising, setting a stage where the Pierce-Arrow 12 would become a symbol of opulence amidst uncertainty. One particularly intriguing fact about this car is that it was among the last models produced before Pierce-Arrow's unfortunate demise in 1938, making it a poignant bookmark in automotive history.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the Pierce-Arrow 12 is nothing short of breathtaking. Its long, sweeping fenders and iconic 'archer' hood ornament cut an imposing figure on the road. The vehicle's grille, a Pierce-Arrow hallmark, exudes confidence with its bold design. Inside, passengers are cocooned in luxury with sumptuous leather seats and rich wood trimmings that reflect the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Technologically, it boasted features like power brakes—innovative for its time—and a refined V12 engine that promised smooth power delivery. Color options ranged from deep blues to elegant blacks, with many owners favoring hues that accentuated the car's dignified lines. Amongst various body styles, including coupes and sedans, the convertible roadster stood out as an icon of American luxury.

Historical Significance

The Pierce-Arrow 12's impact on automotive design was profound; it pushed boundaries in terms of what a luxury car could offer. It set itself apart with its handcrafted quality and attention to detail—qualities that became benchmarks for future luxury vehicles. Its V12 engine was not just about power; it was about delivering a driving experience that was unrivaled in smoothness and refinement.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the 1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 was no slouch. With a top speed that flirted with 100 mph—a remarkable feat at the time—and an acceleration capable of reaching 60 mph from standstill in around 20 seconds, it offered thrilling performance for those who could afford its luxuries. The ride quality was exceptional; bumps were absorbed with grace thanks to its well-tuned suspension system. Driving this car was an auditory delight as well—the hum of its V12 engine provided an understated yet powerful soundtrack to any journey.

Ownership Experience

As one might expect, owning a Pierce-Arrow 12 was reserved for society's elite. It served as a daily driver for some but more often graced the lawns of concours d'elegance or starred in parades. Maintenance required skilled hands, and reliability was as good as one could expect from such complex machinery at the time. Nevertheless, those who owned one were part of an exclusive club that appreciated fine automobiles as rolling works of art.

Fun Facts

The Pierce-Arrow 12 has its share of trivia; for instance, fewer than 2,000 units were produced in its final year. Celebrity ownerships included stars like Bing Crosby and Al Capone, adding to its allure. While no specific records in speed or sales were held by this model, its rarity today makes any sighting an event unto itself. Criticisms were few but often pointed towards its steep price tag during economically challenging times.

Collector's Information

Today, finding a 1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 is akin to uncovering treasure. With likely fewer than several hundred remaining in existence due to limited production numbers and the ravages of time, each example commands significant interest from collectors worldwide. Values can vary widely based on condition and provenance but expect figures well into six digits—with pristine examples fetching upwards of half a million dollars or more at auction—reflecting both appreciation over time and their coveted status among classic car enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The 1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 stands as a testament to pre-war luxury and craftsmanship—a true pinnacle among classic cars. Its combination of style, performance, and exclusivity continues to captivate collectors and historians alike. As we look back on this magnificent machine, we are reminded not only of what once was but also what continues to inspire generations of automotive enthusiasts around the world.

1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 Accessory Floor Mat - 12"X17"-AC 16Accessory Floor Mat - made of high quality black rubber with molded original emblem. Also designed to be sewn into new carpets. 12"X17", Each

1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 Accelerator Pedal Pad. Cement on type. No emblem-AP 121Accelerator Pedal Pad. Cement on type. No emblem. 2-1/2" X 10-1/8", Each

1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. Sharp Emblem-CB 33Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. Sharp Emblem. 3" wide X 4-1/8" long. Pair

1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. Sharp-looking Emblem-CB 34Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. Sharp-looking Emblem. 2-7/8" wide X 4-3/4" long. Pair

1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 5" long. Pair-CB 35Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 5" long. Pair

1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 Hood Corner Covers. Flat rubber with original design-HC 20Hood Corner Covers. Flat rubber with original design. Used to recover old metal. Tall pad is 3-1/4" long X 2-1/4" wide. Other is 2-1/2" wide. Set

1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 Auxiliary Light Pad. 6" inside bead X 3" inside bead-MP 1202Auxiliary Light Pad. 6" inside bead X 3" inside bead. Each

1937 Pierce-Arrow 12 Auxiliary Light Pad. 2-3/4" wide X 5-3/4" long. Each-MP 1207Auxiliary Light Pad. 2-3/4" wide X 5-3/4" long. Each