Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America's Auburn Fall event,
August 31-3, 2017.
Chassis No.
229222A
Estimate:
$110,000 - $130,000 US
Most enthusiasts will agree that Packard's glory days began in
earnest in the late 1920s and ran through the mid-1930s. During
this time, the famed Detroit automaker was building some of the
finest automobiles on the market, expanding its reputation around
the world and supplying machines to moguls and Hollywood stars. The
over-engineered nature of their chassis and engines earned them a
reputation of exceptional reliability. Packard also offered a
staggering array of body, chassis and engine combinations that
could be tailored to suit virtually any client, providing they had
the necessary funds. For the more discerning clientele with deeper
pockets, a chassis could be fitted with a bespoke body by any one
of twenty custom body builders at their disposal. Packards of this
era were grand, yet elegantly restrained. They are considered by
many to be the very finest automobiles of their time.
The model 443 of 1928 was part of the Fourth Series and was one of
the most impressive automobiles of its day. It rode on an immense
143 inch wheelbase regardless of body style, giving it a sense of
presence that few could match. Motivation was courtesy of a nearly
silent straight-eight that displaced 383 cubic inches, and produced
an under stressed 109 horsepower and a steady wave of torque. As
with other Packards of this period, the 443 was not an intimidating
car to drive thanks to the slick transmission, powerful brakes, and
excellent road manners. It was preferred by famous people the world
over, including famous French aviator Dieudonne Costes and H.R.H.
the Prince of Wales, among others.
Our featured example is a 443 Eight dual-windshield, five-passenger
phaeton from 1928. This is an extremely well preserved older
restoration that performs well and presents in very attractive
condition. The body is finished in a handsome combination of medium
brown with dark brown beltline, black fenders and dark orange disc
wheels and body accents. It's a surprisingly attractive combination
that sets this car apart from others. The signature Packard disc
wheels are fitted with whitewall tires all around, including the
dual side mount spares. The styling is very sporting for a large
car, particularly with the canvas top erected, which imparts a
rakish and aggressive look, particularly in profile. Paint quality
and body work are excellent on this quality restoration. The chrome
and brightwork are in similarly excellent condition, showing deep
shine and minimal flaws. The imposing Packard radiator shell is
protected by a stainless steel stone guard, while windwings, cowl
lamps, outside mirrors, and a trunk rack round out the
accessories.
The gorgeous interior is trimmed in dark tan leather which finely
complements the exterior paint colors. Being a dual-windshield
phaeton, rear passengers have their own adjustable windscreen with
windwings to keep them comfortable and unruffled during a top-down
blast. A past owner installed a set of handsome wooden cabinets
behind the driver's seat which appears to be the only deviation
from originality in the cabin, and would make a rather nice drinks
cabinet to keep rear passengers even happier than they would
already be. The wood dash and door caps are restored with deep
gloss and the instruments presented beautifully in the center of
the fascia.
Certainly stylish and dapper, this Packard is also mechanically
excellent, thanks to regular use and care since the restoration was
completed. The 383 cubic inch inline eight cylinder starts readily
and performance is excellent for a car of this size and stature.
The grand 443 has a tendency to shrink around the driver once out
on the road making them among the most enjoyable large classics to
drive and extremely popular among touring enthusiasts. Thanks to
the obvious care this example has received, it remains attractive
enough for show. As a CCCA approved Full Classic, it would be
extremely well-suited for CARavan Touring and a welcome addition to
any collection of fine automobiles.