TVVV club member Jim Payne is the owner of this classic 1923 Pierce-Arrow Series 33 Landau. It is an impressive car to look at, listen to and ride in. Everything about the car exudes quality and attention to detail. The car has a no expense spared look that is apparent, especially when you closely examine the details of its construction.

This brand was produced from 1901 until 1938, but when compared to the so-called “big three,” only eighty-five to ninety thousand units were produced, a very small total. As Jim professed, these low production numbers, the quality of construction and superior engineering were motivating factors for purchasing the car in 2002. Although the car does have a few “issues,” nothing major remains to allow the car to be used on a limited basis for car club events. Jim foresees drives up to 100 miles as a realistic goal after some minor repairs have been completed.

So, what is it like to ride in this car? Jim was kind enough to take a short spin to enable me, John Hallstrand, to have a first hand experience. The engine is very quiet and smooth but the standard three-speed transmission is quite noisy in first and second gears. It is also unsynchronized, typical for cars of this period, so shifting often involves some gear clashing. There is a feeling of immense size and comfort as the car moves down the road. The two wheel mechanical brakes strain to slow the car down and there is no brake light when the pedal is depressed. Tailgaters beware! Also, there is no power steering but Jim claims that the effort required is quite manageable.

According to Jim, only a little over one hundred Series 33 cars have survived. Approximately 3,500 Pierce-Arrows of all descriptions exist but that includes all models of cars, trucks, motorcycles, buses and bicycles. In spite of the company’s diversification, the brand long ago passed into history. Several sterling examples now reside in the Antique Automobile Club of America museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Jim is a member of the Pierce-Arrow Society that has national gatherings annually and a wonderful, informative website.

1923 Pierce Arrow.