USA vs USA — 1931 vs 1933
| Sixteen | Silver Arrow | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 500 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 8,064 cc | 7,031 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 20.0 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 115 mph |
| Weight | 5,600 lbs | 5,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,835 mm | 3,556 mm |
| Length | 5,791 mm | 5,690 mm |
| Units Produced | 390 | 5 |
| Original MSRP | $5,200 | $10,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $650,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1931 Marmon Sixteen excels in more power, better value, while the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow stands out for quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Luxury enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1931 Marmon Sixteen and 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow is one for the ages. These Pre-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1931 Marmon Sixteen holds a clear advantage in raw power with 200 hp compared to 175 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Marmon Sixteen uses a V16 OHV displacing 8,064 cc, while the Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow relies on a V12 OHV with 7,031 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow edges ahead at 18.0 seconds versus 20.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5 units built, the 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow is considerably scarcer than the Marmon Sixteen's 390 examples.