To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' Fort Lauderdale event, 29
- 30 March 2019.
Estimate:
$115,000 - $130,000
- 320-cu. in. straight eight-cylinder engine
- Three-speed manual transmission
- An older restoration that still presents beautifully
- One of just 5,120 Eight Phaetons for 1934
The rare and desirable 1934 Eight Phaeton offered here is a truly
unmistakable landmark of Packard design. With wholly new body
styling for 1934, the conservative yet attractive lines of this
automobile are unmistakable to Packard enthusiasts. In addition,
having long been established as one of the premier luxury car
manufacturers in the U.S., Packard's popularity and sophistication
neared its peak in 1934, which makes the cars of the 11th Series,
as 1934s were called in factory literature, among the most
desirable and highly collectible offerings in today's market. Open
cars, like the Eight Phaeton offered, are especially sought
after.
This 141-inch-wheelbase example is presented in exceptional medium
blue with contrasting red pinstripe and a black Naugahyde interior
with a new matching black convertible top. Though an older
restoration, the paint, interior, and chrome are beautifully
presented, and the car has been recently fitted with a new set of
wide whitewall tires mounted on contrasting red wire wheels. The
car is also fitted with the new-for-1934 faux split bumpers, iconic
side-mount spares, and fully chromed accessory parking lights,
front horns, and headlight buckets. The chrome contrasting and
reflecting in the paint produces a dazzling effect which is sure to
garner attention from enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts alike.
Under the hood, the car has the legendary nine main bearing 320-cu.
in. straight eight backed by the standard three-speed manual
transmission. To many Packard enthusiasts, this is easily one of
the best pre-war engine packages offered by the company due to its
power, smoothness, and relatively low cost of maintenance. The
storied Twelve offered only slightly more horsepower but at a hefty
price both when new and today, making the Eight a viable and
desirable alternative. The 120 hp from the Eight was more than
capable of pushing the 4,400-lb. Phaeton to speeds more than 80 mph
while maintaining comfort and luxury in the process. Few cars, then
or now, could offer such grace and performance with the elegance
and �lan of the Packard.
Just 5,120 Eight Phaetons were made for 1934, making this car a
highly desirable offering. It is said to be a highly capable
performer which runs and drives exceptionally well. Beautifully
presented in exciting period colors and with highly desirable
optional equipment, this will make an ideal entrant in any driving
tour, Antique Automobile Club of America, or Packard Club event
nationwide. In addition to being a wonderful driver, it would be a
superb start toward a high-point comprehensive restoration that
could surely earn awards at concours events around the country.To
view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/fl19.
