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1912 Pierce-Arrow Roadster

Roadster image

The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.

The Pierce-Arrow Roadster of 1912 was a groundbreaking vehicle for its time, both in terms of design and technical innovation. This stylish car was exceptionally well-built, boasting a sturdy chassis and a powerful, four-cylinder engine. Its elegant exterior was complemented by a finely-crafted interior, featuring luxurious leather seats and a host of high-tech features that were ahead of their time.

At the heart of the Pierce-Arrow Roadster is its powerful engine, which delivers 48 horsepower and can reach a top speed of 60 miles per hour. This engine is coupled with a four-speed manual transmission, which provides smooth and responsive shifting. The car's suspension system is equally impressive, featuring a double-elliptical spring system at the front and a cantilevered spring system at the rear.

The Pierce-Arrow Roadster is also notable for its exceptionally high level of craftsmanship. The car's body is crafted from hand-formed steel and aluminum, while the interior is adorned with hand-stitched leather, wood veneers, and brass fittings. The car's dashboard is particularly impressive, featuring a circular array of gauges and dials that provide the driver with all the information they need at a glance.

In addition to its technical and design features, the Pierce-Arrow Roadster was also remarkably innovative for its time. The car featured a number of advanced safety features, including oversized brakes, a sturdy windshield, and a weatherproof top that could be raised or lowered as needed. Other amenities included an electric starter, a folding luggage rack, and adjustable headlights.

Overall, the 1912 Pierce-Arrow Roadster was a remarkable feat of engineering, and remains an enduring symbol of early 20th-century automotive innovation. With its elegant design, powerful engine, and advanced technical features, this car remains a beloved classic to this day.

Milestones

- Pierce-Arrow introduces their first-ever open-bodied car, the Roadster, in 1912 - The Roadster's engine, a six-cylinder inline design, is the largest and most powerful in the market at the time, delivering 48 horsepower - The car features a long, low hood that houses the engine and a short cockpit with room for two passengers - The Roadster is praised for its smooth ride and luxurious features, such as adjustable seats and a built-in toolkit - The car's body is constructed using lightweight aluminum, making it faster and more agile than competing models - The Roadster gains popularity among wealthy American buyers, including celebrities and businessmen - Pierce-Arrow releases a limited-edition special model of the Roadster in 1913, known as the Great Arrow, which is even more powerful and luxurious than the standard version - Despite its success, the Roadster is retired in 1918 due to the economic downturn and changing consumer preferences for closed-bodied cars.


Technical

• Manufacturer: Pierce-Arrow Motor Car Company • Model: Roadster • Year of manufacture: 1912 • Engine: In-line 6 cylinder, 7146 cc • Maximum power: 48 hp • Transmission: 3-speed manual • Wheelbase: 127 inches • Length: 178 inches • Width: 65 inches • Height: 80 inches (with top up) • Body style: Roadster • Top speed: 65 mph • Weight: 3400 pounds (approx.) • Brakes: Mechanical drum brakes • Suspension: Leaf spring on front and rear • Fuel system: Gravity feed carburetor • Ignition: Battery and coil • Steering: Worm and roller • Production: Only 390 were made.