Vehicle Description
Nineteen thirty-two was an odd year for Packard production. The
board's decision to produce a mid-market luxury car to compete with
LaSalle and high-line Buick models was put into action, and the 900
"Light Eight" debuted. It featured unique body styling that was
slightly smaller and lighter than the Senior models, but it shared
the same engine with the 901 and 902 models despite being priced
less. The snappy and freshly styled 900 was seemingly at odds with
the traditional Eight and Deluxe Eight models, and Packard dealers
didn't quite know how to market them. Sales were down across the
board, and the directors reacted by blaming dealers for spending
too much time with 900 buyers. Rather than seeing the car as an
asset, they felt it was a distraction for regular clientele, and
they summarily axed the Light Eight after just one year. In spite
of the disruption caused by the 900 Light Eight, the traditional
models soldiered on. New for 1932 was an optional high-compression
cylinder head for the 384.8 cubic inch inline eight, as well as an
updated Detroit Lubricator 51 carburetor and air cleaner assembly,
bumping output to a respectable 135 horsepower. Adjustable ride
control and a vacuum assisted clutch aided in relaxed, comfortable
motoring. The styling was a careful evolution of earlier models,
with the distinct Packard radiator shell still prominently leading
the way. The 903 models rode on a 142-inch wheelbase, with eleven
body styles from which to choose. Despite the evolutionary approach
to their proven senior model range, sales lagged as the American
economy was still in flux. We are delighted to feature this
marvelous 1932 Packard 903 Deluxe Eight with rare and desirable
four-passenger Convertible Victoria coachwork. This elegant body
style was initially only available on the Individual Custom line,
but it was so popular with buyers that it joined the standard
Packard catalog for 1932. While not branded as such, the design was
a product of Packard's long-running relationship with Dietrich, and
the Dietrich department of the Murray body works continued to build
them to order. Packard made fewer than 1,000 Deluxe Eight 903
models, and just a handful of buyers selected this elegant open
Convertible Victoria coachwork. Price was undoubtedly a limiting
factor. At $4,495, it was the second most expensive model in the
903 range; two-and-a-half times the price of a Light Eight
roadster. This car has enjoyed recent care in the private
collection of a CCCA member. Past owners include the noted
collector Don Stein of Lafayette, Indiana, and Dorothy McDermott of
Hicksville, New York - located not far from the selling dealer,
Park Avenue Packard. The beautiful color combination of pine green
over black fenders and a subtle light green swage line lend an
elegant yet understated look. The concours-quality restoration has
matured lightly with time, yet the car retains undeniable presence
and charm. Paintwork is excellent, particularly in the deep, glossy
black fenders. It is tastefully optioned and accessorized with
Packard's vibration-dampening front bumper, dual chrome trumpet
horns, chrome radiator shell and slats, Goddess of Speed mascot,
dual side mount spares with color-matched covers and factory trunk
rack. The car rides on the standard-equipment steel wheels shod
with chrome discs and wide whitewall tires for a stunning effect
against the understated paint colors. The cabin is particularly
inviting, upholstered in rich, tobacco-colored leather that has
acquired a modest character in the time since the restoration. Wood
trim and wood-grained metal on the dash and door caps are gorgeous,
and the full set of original instruments is beautifully restored.
Door panels, carpets, and interior panels are finely finished, and
as the seats, the materials show a bit of character from age and
light use that suits the usable nature of this Packard. The
signature feature of the Convertible Victoria is the folding roof
with its large blind quarters that give the car a more formal
appearance when up, yet it tucks neatly into the cut-down body for
a clean and sporty look when open. This car's tan canvas top is in
excellent condition, and a matching canvas boot is included to
complete the look. Packard's legendary "Big Eight" is beautifully
presented, finished in correct Packard Green with the silver
crankcase and porcelain black manifolds and fittings. The engine
retains the correct original air cleaner and Detroit Lubricator
carburetor. The "HC" marking on the cylinder head denotes this as
having the high-compression option. The engine starts with ease and
runs beautifully, emitting a subtle eight-cylinder growl from the
exhaust while retaining all of the refinement and relaxed power
delivery expected of a senior model Packard. The factory
three-speed gearbox shifts well, while the vacuum assisted clutch
allows for effortless progress. The undercarriage is tidy and
clean, showing the level of attention paid to every aspect of this
beautiful restoration. The high-quality yet pleasingly matured
restoration and lovely coachwork make this Packard ideally suited
for touring and regular enjoyment on the road. Despite its
excellent restoration, it has rarely been shown and is, therefore,
a great candidate for club-level events and regional concours. The
prestigious and beautiful Convertible Victorias are among the most
desired of Full Classic Packards, and this example would be a
welcome addition to virtually any collection. For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6336-1932-packard-903-deluxe-eight-convertible-victoria/