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NEW PRICE! Older restoration built for touring. Overdrive, new radiator and water pump, rebuilt carburetor. Extremely reliable, powerful, comfortable tour car and spectacular to look at.
The French Blue bodywork is admittedly a polarizing feature, but among the more common burgundy and dark green Packards of the era, it truly stands out and looks quite spectacular. Although there’s no documentation, rumor has it that the car was originally owned by silent film actress Zasu Pitts, which would certainly explain the flamboyant color scheme. The restoration work was done to the highest standards of the time, and there’s no indication that this car was ever wrecked, rusty, or salvaged. Fit and finish are what you would expect of Packard’s finest, with doors that close with just gentle pressure despite their considerable heft, a hood that fits snugly and doesn’t vibrate, and paint that remains shiny and bright despite almost 20 years of touring. Yes, there are a few signs of use here and there, but the overall presentation is extremely impressive, and not just because of its age.
The interior offers sumptuous dark blue leather that’s the ideal contrast to the light blue bodywork. Still in outstanding condition, it shows no issues, no dryness, no cracking, and no split seams, and only very minor signs of use. The gauges offer interesting pointers that seem to float in the center of the dial, and all the accessories save for the AM radio and clock are fully functional. Accessory control panels for the heater/defroster, Trippe lights, aftermarket turn signals, and overdrive unit have been professionally installed and all operate properly. The top requires at least two people to fold and erect, but it stows neatly in the surprisingly small compartment behind the seat, where it’s hidden under a matching canvas boot.
The 320 cubic inch straight-eight was rebuilt with touring in mind, and over the past few years it has covered thousands of miles without incident. Useful upgrades include a 6-volt alternator hidden down low, an over-sized radiator core fitted to the original tanks, as well as a rebuilt high-efficiency water pump, so it runs cool under all conditions. Lloyd Young installed one of his Borg-Warner overdrive units, so this big convertible will cruise effortlessly at 70 MPH all day. The engine bay is accurately detailed, with Packard Green enamel on the block and head, satin black accessories, and fresh plugs and correct fabric plug wires. The carburetor was recently rebuilt, and in the years that I have personally known this car, it has never failed to start: hot or cold, after long storage or a quick trip up the street, hit the button and it’s running.
This is unquestionably a first-rate Full Classic with impeccable tour credentials. Only the mighty Twelve can compare, and there are more than a few who will claim the Super 8 is a better car for touring. Having been invited to the Amelia Island Concours, this convertible sedan can still hold its head high in show situations, but out on the highway is where it really shines. Fully sorted, mechanically excellent, and cosmetically spectacular, this is a no-excuses Packard that more than lives up to lofty expectations.
For more information and photos, please visit www.VintageMotorCarsUSA.com.
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STOCK/INV. NUMBER:
132167
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