1916 Pierce-Arrow Brougham

Pierce-Arrow was considered the American equivalent of Rolls-Royce, making this one of the finest cars available in 1916. It represents the Nickel Period, referring to the plating process used on automobile brightwork. This 38-C is an especially important piece of automobile history since Nickel Period cars are often overlooked in favor of the earlier Brass Period and the later Chrome Period, and many Nickel Period automobiles have been lost.


George N. Pierce began producing automobiles in 1901 producing just 2 cars, reminiscent of the Oldsmobile curved dash. The first “Great Arrows” established a reputation for reliability by winning the first Glidden Tour in 1905. The Glidden Tour was the beginning of rally or reliability runs in America. Some of these runs were up to 2,000 miles, nearly all on unpaved roads.

Pierce-Arrow experienced lagging sales in the 1920’s which led to its sale to Studebaker in 1928. Low volume, hand-made luxury cars were feeling tough competition from GM and Ford who were perfecting mass production with luxury features. The onset of the Great Depression in the 1930’s spelled the end for Pierce-Arrow.

There were approximately 2,004 38-C4’s made in 1916, and this Brougham was one of the 17 body styles available! This car has its original chassis, engine, and body. It features a 6-cylinder engine of 38 hp, 4 inch bore on a 5 ½ inch stroke and a 134 inch wheelbase. Other luxury features included are an electric clock, intercom from the rear seat, and a flower vase. 


1st in class at the 2011 Kirkland Concours de Elegance
Year: 1916
Make: Pierce-Arrow
Model: Brougham
Style: 38-4 Series 4

Serial No: C42747
Odometer:
Engine Cyl: 6
Engine Size:
Engine HP: 38
Trans: 4 speed manual