Vehicle Description
1935 Packard 1200 Sedan
During the 20's and 30's Packard was THE leading luxury car
manufacturer in the US. Known for their over engineering and mostly
hand built construction, they were rugged, luxurious and
beautifully detailed cars. During the depression to stay afloat,
they were forced to produce a "downmarket car" to compete with the
big 3. In 1935 they introduced the 120 series which allowed them to
continue to stay afloat, as well as enable them to continue
producing the elegant cars that became known as the "Senior"
series.
Originally owned by wealthy farmers from Arkansas, this Senior
Series car has spent its life in the non-snowy, free of road salt
environment in the south. It can be traced back through time to
yield it has had 4 owners in its life, some of them spending
serious money to keep it in shape. The car currently is not
perfect, but a well working example of the 1200 series with no rust
on the body, and looking visually, much like it originally did when
it was driven out of the dealership on September 9th, 1935.
Exterior
With its exterior bathed in a warm Gunmetal Gray this car maintains
its dapper lines, sleek fenders, and swooping rear. Upfront bullet
headlights, as well as two large fog lights perched on the bumper,
guide your way in any weather. Behind we see a massive vertical
ribbed chromed grille topped by a near perfect swan in courtship
hood ornament. Paint shows a dulling patina, and on the roof are
some areas of concern in the form of peeling paint, and crazing.
Chrome on the exterior overall is in good condition with no
dimpling but some early signs of dulling or rust and could use
replacing. Windows show some de-laminating and yellowing. The
driver's rear fender is noted as having a few drip marks from gas
filling. Overall gaps are well minded, and a beautiful set of body
matching steel and chrome capped wheels wrapped in wide whites are
seen on all fours.
Interior
A mixture of restored and unrestored would best sum up the
interior. Starting in front at the dash, it is in nice condition. A
wood burl veneer background houses a large centered oval shaped
instrument cluster with wonderful cream gauges that create a
geometric amalgamation of circles and ovals. A pristine steering
wheel juts out from the dash and has a shine to beat the band.
Seats have been re-covered all be it a while ago as they have a few
rips and tears, and the rear bench back appears original. Seat
belts have been added. Door panels show wear, some pulling away for
the frames, and have several scuffs on them. Headliner is original
and appears to have had water damage at one time, although remains
tight. Carpets are worn through in some areas, but remain
clean.
Drivetrain
Beautifully designed, smooth, powerful, and rugged are just a few
words to describe this recently completely restored engine, which
was literally all apart, and restored to near perfection
mechanically. It is a straight 8-cylinder version engine, and
visually is very nicely done.
Undercarriage
Slight surface rust on a few areas is noted, but mostly
unremarkable. Frame is solid, and underside of engine and
transmission is buttoned up. Under running boards are clear, as are
the supports for them. Lower interior door panels show some
rusting.
Overall a nice example, certainly very well running as a recent
engine and transmission overhaul, noted. Straight and true steel,
unharmed by northern weather, nice overall patina which can only
come with a well-aged, well-kept car. A few areas of some work to
make it perfect, but certainly far from a major project car. Owning
a piece of automotive history is well within reach, as it is priced
correctly, and has good heritage to boot!
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special
interest automobile showroom, featuring over 450 vehicles for sale
with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle
barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia
on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is
www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914.
Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the
vehicle in person.
