1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 41
The Model 41 was Pierce-Arrow’s top model in 1931. It’s long 147-inch wheelbase was accompanied by a new straight-eight engine that could produce 132 bhp. In a sense, this model was reviving the brand by offering one of the most powerful American engines available at the time.
Studebaker was responsible for Pierce-Arrow’s 1931 model lineup which included 137, 142 and 147 inch wheelbases. The cars were offered by Studebaker’s vast dealer network and with a variety of body styles. All cars that came equipped with the eight-cylinder engine in 1931 came with a single bar bumper. Additionally, more chrome and a deeper radiator and an archer radiator cap set this model year apart.
Along with the 132 bhp engine, a free wheeling clutch for the transmission was included in the Model 41 and all other models in 1931.
Five different body styles were offered on the Model 41 chassis and all were built by LeBaron. These included a Convertible Victoria, a standard Coupe, a Limousine and a Club Sedan.
Phil Hill was the owner of a Model 41 Convertible Victoria that won the 1955 Pebble Beach Concours and it was the first prewar car to win the event outright. He owned the car up until his death and it was redisplayed at Pebble several times. It is currently retained by the Hill family.
In Detail
| type | Series Production Car |
| built at | Buffalo, New York, USA |
| engine | Inline-8 w/L-Head |
| position | Front, Longitudinal |
| block material | Cast Iron |
| displacement | 6309 cc / 385 in³ |
| power | 98.4 kw / 132 bhp @ 3000 rpm |
| specific output | 20.92 bhp per litre |
| body / frame | Body over Steel Chassis |
| driven wheels | RWD |
| front brakes | Mechincal Drums |
| rear brakes | Mechincal Drums |
| f suspension | Solid Axle w/Semi-Elliptic Leaf Springs |
| r suspension | Live Axle w/Semi-Elliptic Leaf Springs |
| wheelbase | 3733.8 mm / 147 in |
| transmission | 4-Speed Manual |
Auction Sales History
1931 Pierce Arrow Model 41 LeBaron Sport 325761 – sold for $132,000. Top model available in 1931. 147″ wheel base, 385cid 9-main bearing engine. Magnificent interior wood trim. Original cost $5,375.00. LeBaron was originally formed by Ray Dietrich of Dietrich Inc. Coachbuilders. With major Dietrich design influence, the V-windshields, recessed dashboard and long hood, it is the forerunner of the 1932 to 1934 V-windshield custom Dietrichs on the 147″ wheelbase. Rare and previously from the Browning estate collection. From the Tom Crook Collection. Auction Source: 2012 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction
