In late 1924, the Pierce Arrow Motor Car Company introduced the Series 80, a less expensive alternative to the Series 33. The 1927 Pierce-Arrow Series 80 Club Brougham is a classic luxury car that exemplifies the elegance and craftsmanship of the early 20th century automotive era.
This handsome example has a 6-cylinder engine that produces 80 HP and cost $4,000 when new. It wears the very rare wheel and arrow Pierce Arrow mascot and patented fender mounted headlamps. From 1925 to 1927 there were 16,000 Series 80 vehicles produced and only 6 of them were 2-doors.
The 1927 Pierce-Arrow Series 80 Club Brougham is a remarkable vehicle that exemplifies the luxury and craftsmanship of American automobiles in the 1920s. With its distinctive design, advanced engineering, and historical significance, it stands as a testament to Pierce-Arrow's legacy as a premier luxury car manufacturer. The Series 80 Club Brougham remains a cherished classic, celebrated for its elegance and contribution to automotive history.
Background
- Manufacturer: Pierce-Arrow Motor Car Company, based in Buffalo, New York.
- Year: 1927
- Model: Series 80 Club Brougham
Specifications
- Engine: The Series 80 is powered by a 288 cubic inch (4.7-liter) inline-eight engine. This engine produced around 75 horsepower, which was quite powerful for its time.
- Transmission: It features a three-speed manual transmission.
- Chassis: The car is built on a sturdy steel frame, designed for both strength and comfort.
- Suspension: The suspension system includes semi-elliptical leaf springs at both the front and rear, providing a smooth ride.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The Club Brougham is a two-door, five-passenger vehicle. The Brougham style typically features a fixed roof with a stylish and elegant design, catering to the luxury market.
- Design: The 1927 Series 80 showcases Pierce-Arrow's signature styling cues, including the iconic fender-mounted headlamps, which became a hallmark of the brand. The car features flowing lines, a prominent grille, and a stately appearance.
- Interior: The interior is luxurious, with plush seating, high-quality upholstery, and fine wood trim. It offers a spacious and comfortable cabin for passengers.
Innovations
- Fender-Mounted Headlamps: Pierce-Arrow was known for its unique headlamp design, which was integrated into the front fenders. This not only improved visibility but also gave the cars a distinctive and recognizable look.
- Engineering Excellence: The Series 80 featured advanced engineering for its time, including precision-built engines and robust construction, ensuring reliability and performance.
Historical Significance
- Luxury Brand: Pierce-Arrow was one of America's premier luxury car manufacturers during the early 20th century. The Series 80 was positioned as a more affordable model compared to the flagship Series 36, broadening the brand's appeal.
- Cultural Impact: Pierce-Arrow cars were favored by wealthy individuals, celebrities, and even royalty. The brand's reputation for quality and luxury made it a status symbol.
Legacy
- Collectibility: Today, the 1927 Pierce-Arrow Series 80 Club Brougham is a highly prized collector's item. Its historical significance, elegant design, and connection to a bygone era of American luxury automobiles make it sought after by classic car enthusiasts.
- Automotive Heritage: The Series 80 represents Pierce-Arrow's commitment to luxury, innovation, and craftsmanship. It remains an enduring symbol of the elegance and sophistication of 1920s American automobiles.
You may purchase a print of the 1927 Pierce Arrow Series 80 Club Brougham in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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