Description
Lot #5074 - This remarkable 1919 Pierce-Arrow Model 51 limousine is one of only two believed to have been built; the other was the official presidential limousine of Woodrow Wilson. Pierce-Arrow automobiles were the pinnacle of luxury in the pre-war era, and served as a status symbol for Hollywood elites and royalty around the world. The Model 51 was a replacement for the Model 48 and Model 66, the latter of which offered an 864cid engine, the largest ever offered in an automobile. Despite its smaller 525cid engine, the Model 51 offered greatly improved performance, thanks to a dual valve setup featuring two intake and exhaust valves for each cylinder. Extremely advanced for the time, the 48hp engine was mated to a 4-speed transmission. From the two-year production run, about a dozen Model 51s survive today. This particular car, chassis #312017, is in very good condition from a well-preserved older restoration. It features blue exterior, black leather on the driver's bench and gray cloth in the enclosed limousine portion. It has all correct hardware, gauges, brass, tires, wheels and accessories, and is ideal for show or touring.