This 1941 Packard Super 8 180 All-Weather Cabriolet is the only 1907 model known to exist, as referenced in Packard: A History of the Motor Car and the Company, edited by Beverly Rae Kimes (see page 371). Even more special, this very model was the only one produced in 1941.
To make it even more exceptional, this rare vintage auto belonged to Alta Prentice, the daughter of John D. Rockefeller. Ezra Prentice, Alta’s husband, ordered two luxurious Packards in 1941: a custom convertible sedan for himself and this stunner for Alta.
The custom coachwork was built by the Rollson Company of New York, well-regarded coachbuilders famous for producing a small number of high-quality custom bodies each model year. This 1907 model bears the starting serial number for the series: 2001.
With its storied lineage, this regal Packard remained in the Rockefeller stables through the mid-1970s until sold to the Harrah Collection. It benefited from a full body-on restoration in the early 2000s and since then spent its time in an auto museum in New Zealand. Although well cared-for during its stay in the museum, this historical timepiece was recommissioned last year when it returned to the U.S.
With its 138-inch wheelbase, this Super 8 Cabriolet allows for easy cornering, and the steering is tight with virtually no play. The 356 cubic inch inline-eight produces 160 hp for an exceptionally smooth ride at 70 mph.
This Packard’s polished exterior is Grove Green with a black vinyl top. The interior driver’s compartment has nicely maintained green leather seats with quality burled-wood trim on the dash, doors and window frames. All the gauges are original and clear and work well.
The rear compartment is spacious with tan cloth upholstery, carpets and door pulls. It seats four adults, with a separate hidden jump seat that folds nicely away into the back of the front seat. A divider window separates the two compartments.
This famous 1941 Packard, with its large but elegant presence, will give its new owner miles of driving enjoyment and will certainly be a hit at any Concours de Elegance or CCCA Caravan.
