1929 Pierce-Arrow Model 133 Coupe
Studebaker’s 1928 acquisition brought Pierce-Arrow the financial resources to finally develop its long-awaited eight-cylinder engine, breaking the Buffalo manufacturer’s traditional reliance on six-cylinder power.
Named for its 133-inch wheelbase, the Model 133 introduced coachwork that was both lower and longer than previous designs, available in a wide range of body styles to suit varying preferences from sporting phaetons to formal closed cars.
The new 366-cubic-inch L-head inline eight represented a significant engineering advancement, delivering 125 horsepower at 3,200 rpm.
Built with nine main bearings and aluminum pistons, the engine produced substantially more power than the six-cylinder it replaced while maintaining the smoothness expected of the marque. Power reached the rear wheels through a three-speed manual transmission.
Pierce-Arrow produced 8,422 examples of the 133 during 1929, with prices starting at $2,675 for open cars and higher for closed bodies.
Recognized as a CCCA Full Classic, the Model 133 demonstrated that Pierce-Arrow’s engineering prowess remained competitive with Packard and Cadillac despite years of under-capitalization.
Source
