Vehicle Description
By the late 1930s, it was finally clear to Packard's board of
directors that a mid-priced model was essential to the survival of
the company. Unlike many of their competitors, Packard weathered
the Great Depression relatively well, emerging bruised and
battered, yet still standing. After one failed attempt at tackling
the mid-price market with the 900 "Shovelnose" in 1932, Packard
finally got serious with the eight-cylinder One-Twenty of 1935. But
unlike the 900, the One-Twenty proved to be a runaway success. By
1937, a smaller, six-cylinder model joined the One-Twenty in the
Junior line. It was the first six-cylinder automobile produced by
Packard since 1927, utilizing what was, in essence, a One-Twenty
engine minus two cylinders, in a similar chassis albeit with a
shorter wheelbase. The six was still quite powerful, allowing for
100 mph performance in an efficient and cost-effective, and highly
competitive package. For its debut year, the six-cylinder model was
named the 115C, referencing its 115-inch wheelbase chassis. Aimed
squarely at Hudson, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac, the 115-C or simply
"Packard Six," was an instant sales hit, selling more than 65,000
units in its first year alone. Thanks to the six, thousands of
middle-class Americans could now live the previously unattainable
dream of owning a brand new Packard automobile. 1938 saw the
introduction of a lengthened chassis and heavily revised sheet
metal that contributed to a more balanced style, and sales
continued at an impressive clip. For the 1939 model year, or
Seventeenth Series in Packard parlance, much of the previous car
carried over, with the most notable addition being the so-called
"Handi-Shift" column-mounted gear change. The 245 cubic-inch
inline-six produced an even 100 horsepower and 195lb/ft of torque.
The chassis featured independent front suspension, with powerful
hydraulic brakes and the robust, quality engineering that Packard
buyers of all levels came to expect. Coachwork options for the Six
included two coupes, two sedans, a convertible coupe, and a station
wagon. Thanks to the outstanding value and quality offered by the
Junior line, Packard enjoyed one of the most prosperous periods in
the history of the firm. Officially known as a Model 1700-1285,
this 1939 Packard Six wears attractive two/four- passenger Club
Coupe bodywork. This outstanding example of Packard's mid-market
sales leader wears a superb restoration that has seen occasional
use and regular maintenance as part of a significant collection of
collector automobiles. It presents in a beautiful shade of deep
maroon over a taupe fabric interior, with a clean, period-correct
look. Paintwork is excellent, exhibiting straight reflections in
the bodywork and excellent panel fit. The brightwork is in fine
order all around, with beautiful re-chromed bumpers, correctly
detailed hub caps, a Goddess of Speed mascot, and of course, the
proud Packard radiator grille. The interior is a particular
highlight, with the four-passenger cabin trimmed in lovely taupe
twill fabric on the doors panels, front seats, and rear jump seats.
The carpet and broadcloth headlining are similarly outstanding and
finished to a high standard. The driver faces the original steering
wheel with optional Handi-Shift column-mounted gear lever. The
restored instruments sit in a stunning woodgrain-effect steel dash
panel with period-correct switches and controls. Similar attention
to detail was paid to the trunk upholstery, which is very well
detailed. Under the center-hinged hood sits Packard's bulletproof
245 cubic-inch six-cylinder. Based on the legendary L-head eight
design, the six offers similar levels of refinement with little
sacrifice in performance. Beneath the original oil-bath air cleaner
is a factory-correct Carter WA-1 downdraft carburetor. Under-hood
detailing is authentic with proper wire-type hose clamps and labels
and markings where appropriate. While very clean under the hood,
there are some signs of regular use, with slight dulling of the
painted engine block and evidence of heat cycles on some surfaces.
The undercarriage is similarly presented, impressively clean and
tidy while displaying evidence of enjoyment on the road. Rarely do
we encounter Packard Sixes of this era quite so nicely restored.
This marvelous car benefits from recent expert care, and it would
make a superb companion for casual touring and road events and is
sure to satisfy any aficionado of late pre-war American classic
automobiles. Offers welcome and trades considered For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6551-1939-packard-six-coupe/