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Remarkable original survivor with documented ownership history. Heavily optioned with AM radio, sidemounts, and Handy Kit, which is included. Recently serviced and ready to go!
The factory-applied Abington Blue (code FF) is presentable, albeit thin in the usual spots, but that is most certainly a big part of this car’s charm. It appears that the front fenders have been repainted, and judging by the unusual front bumper guards, it’s possible they may have been damaged in the distant past, as the repaint is almost as old as the car. All of the chrome save for the horn domes is original, including the factory-optional hood ornament, grille shell (which could be painted body color at no extra cost), and the headlight buckets. There is some light pitting on the cast pieces like the taillight stands, but given its age and the overall patina of the car, it is entirely appropriate and acceptable.
Inside, the light blue broadcloth interior is extremely well preserved. Aside from light wear on the driver’s seat that amounts to some rubbing near the adjuster mechanism and a thin spot on the backrest, it is outstanding. All the woodgrained garnish moldings are beautifully preserved, and the back seat looks virtually untouched by the passing decades. The gauges are simply spectacular with lovely ivory-colored faces, crisp markings, and delicate needles that all swing through their range of motion effortlessly, save for the clock, which isn’t surprising. Most remarkably, the original AM radio remains in the center of the dash, powered by a separate high-voltage dynamo in the driver’s side glove box, and yes, it does work.
Equipped with the high compression cylinder head (denoted by the HC cast into its surface), it is powerful, smooth, and effortless in everything it does. It has been recently and extensively serviced by David Heinrichs of Heinrichs’ Vintage Car Shop, which included things like a new head gasket, a valve adjustment, rebuilt carburetor, and fresh ignition system components. The fuel system was cleaned, the radiator was flushed, and today it runs extremely well. There is a fully functional Startix self-starter system installed on the firewall, but it has been disconnected simply due to the owner’s preference, and the same is true of the Bijur lubrication system, which is intact but capped. The engine compartment shows outstanding originality with all the original equipment intact, from the air filter to the porcelainized manifolds to the Owen Dyneto generator with correct rear-facing cooling scoop.
The transmission is fully synchronized, and with 4.69 gears out back, it moves out smartly from rest. Suspension action is smooth and well-controlled, a remarkably sophisticated sensation if you are someone who believes all old cars were crude. And if you’re expecting typical awful 1930s brakes, you are in for a very pleasant surprise, as the binders on this vintage Packard are strong and confidence-inspiring. The optional wire wheels are fitted with polished trim rings per the build sheet, and newer Dayton blackwall tires complete a very authentic look.
Documentation is extensive, including that original build sheet, bill of sale, Onwer’s Manual, Packard Owner’s Service Card, and extensive research information from a variety of sources.
If you are the kind of person wondering what a repaint might cost, then this is not your car. However, if you can see the appeal of the 80-year-old lacquer, the grand feeling of motoring in a car that has never been disassembled, and the sense of dedication a car like this commands, then perhaps it is something you should investigate further. A truly wonderful car and an elegant Full Classic eligible for any show or tour where it will undoubtedly be a star attraction.
For more information and photos, please visit www.VintageMotorCarsUSA.com.
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STOCK/INV. NUMBER:
132190
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