From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
The announcement and features of the new Pierce-Arrow 'Series 81' car.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 23\4\ Scan011 | |
| Date | 21th November 1927 | |
| November Twenty-first, 1927. Dear Mr. Johnson:- The Pierce-Arrow Company of Buffalo have announced a new series of cars styled "Series 81", in which they emphasize the following improvements:- "A great change has been effected in physical appearance. The cars, in fact, strike an entirely new note in body design, bearing no resemblance to previous Pierce-Arrow models. Body and roof lines, adiator, lamps, fenders and cowl, all show radically different treatment from the more conservative modeling which have characterized Pierce-Arrow in the past. Although the wheel-base of 138 inches is unchanged from that of the preceding model, the new Series 81 carries a notable group of engine and chassis improvements, which contribute to performance standards heretofore unapproached, according to company officials. The power plant, designed and built in the Pierce-Arrow factory, is described as an 'aluminized, high-compression" engine, which does not require the use of "anti-knock" fuels. Retaining all the economy and simplicity of its preceding Series 80 engine, the new engine develops substantially greater horse power, has higher maximum speed, faster acceleration and better hill climbing ability. Among the engineering features which contribute to these results are an aluminum alloy high-compression engine head, drop forged aluminum connecting rods, aluminum alloy pistons, larger bearing areas on the 7-bearing crankshaft, an 'equal-distribution" manifold and a special carburetor with thermostatic control for quick acceleration and improved economy. An automatic chassis lubrication system, using liquid grease instead of oil has been engineered into the design. Vital points are lubricated simultaneously by pushing a foot plunger. Immediately noticeable among the changes in exterior appearance are lowered body lines without the slightest sacrifice in headroom, an unusual visored roof which arches and sweeps from front to rear without a break in its lines, airplane fenders, unusual panelling and moulding effects, and a new rear shield or apron which conceals | ||