Become a Member: Get Ad-Free Access to All Our Content

1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 41

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.

1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 41

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

1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 41 Convertible Victoria 3050235 – sold for $385,000 Believed the sole example known to exist today. Pebble Beach 2008 Best in Class Award recipient. 2009 recipient of the Most Authentic Restoration from the Pierce-Arrow Society. Auction Source: Monterey 2012 by RM Auctions
1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 41

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

 

1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 41
1931 Pierce-Arrow Model 41 LeBaron Convertible Sedans – did not sell for $145,000 One of only four Pierce-Arrow LeBaron convertible sedans sold in 1931. Part of the Browning Collection from 1972 to 2000. Restored in early 1990s, Pebble Beach award winner in 2001. – Driven 2000 trouble-free miles in recent years. Auction Source: 2011 Monterey Auction by RM