Vehicle Description
In 1936, Packard was riding high on the success of the entry-level
120. While competitors like Pierce-Arrow headed for receivership,
Packard had survived the great depression flush with cash.
Introduced on August 10th1935, the Packard 14thseries replaced the
12thseries (there was no 13thseries for superstitious reasons), and
the model itself was very much evolutionary. But for today's
collectors, it marked the end of the line for many signature
Packard features such as the 17" wire wheels, ride control shocks,
Bijur chassis lubrication and most notably, it was the final year
for the legendary 385 cubic inch straight-eight engine before the
smaller 320 cubic-inch unit replaced it. As before, three distinct
model lines were available; the Eight, Super Eight and Twelve. All
were available in a wide variety of body styles and configurations.
The Super Eight was the top eight cylinder model, and in an effort
to distinguish it from the Standard Eight, it shared many features
and options with the Twelve, including the special fluid-filled
counter-weight bumpers designed to smooth vibrations on rough
roads. The styling for the 14thseries was tweaked with eye toward
streamlining: The radiator tilted back a further 5 degrees, and
with bullet headlamps mounted to fully skirted, curvaceous fenders.
1936 models remain very collectible for their "last of the line"
appeal and stunning classic-era style as much as for their
outstanding performance and road manners. This 1936 Packard Super
Eight Rumble Seat Coupe Roadster (model 1404, body style 959) is a
very rare example of this sporting model from the fourteenth
series. Fewer than 1,500 Super Eights in all body styles were built
in 1936, and it is believed that fewer than ten of style 959
remain. Importantly this car retains its original body, firewall
tag, and freshly overhauled original engine. This is a highly
desirable Packard among marque enthusiasts and classic era
collectors alike. According to registration documents, the earliest
known owner of this Packard was Roger Derby of West Concord,
Massachusetts. He may have been the original owner, as the car was
first delivered via Packard Motors Boston, per the firewall tag.
The paper trail begins when it was purchased from Mr. Derby by F.
Porter Sargent of Brookline, Mass in 1954. Mr. Sargent was a
prominent writer, publisher and editor, and he was known to enjoy
several fine automobiles, including a Waterhouse-bodied Pierce
Arrow. The Packard remained with Mr. Sargent for many years, when
in 1990, it was passed (along with the Pierce) to his nephew, Mr.
John Doody of Nantucket, Massachusetts. Photographs show it was in
remarkably straight and original condition when it was removed from
storage. Mr. Doody commissioned a full restoration with Lee Witt of
Fremont, OH which was completed in 1998, and has been very well
documented with photographs and receipts. Despite speaking very
highly of its looks and performance, Mr. Doody sold the Packard in
2000 to focus on the restoration of his uncle's Pierce-Arrow. Fred
Heitman of Anaheim, California was the next keeper and he showed
the car in numerous Packard Club events on the West Coast. His
tenure was followed by another enthusiastic California collector
who kept the car from 2003 onward. Included in the sale is a large
history file that documents the restoration and ownership chain
through the years. Today, this marvelous Super Eight Packard
presents in excellent condition. The restoration has been very well
maintained, having aged remarkably well since it was completed. The
bodywork and white paintwork show in very fine order and it
features rare and unusual options such as golf doors, a
rear-mounted "continental" spare wheel with painted metal cover and
fluid-damper bumpers. The rear-mounted spare is a particularly
interesting feature that cleans up the body sides, accentuating the
length and sweeping profile of the fenders. Red wire wheels with
wide whitewall tires provide a lovely visual pop against the
paintwork. A rich, deep red interior and a very high quality top in
burgundy canvas also provide a pleasing contrast against the
paintwork. And just like the paint and body, the interior remains
in lovely order with fine quality materials and beautiful detailing
on the dash and controls. The wood door caps and woodgrain dash and
steering wheel boss are simply gorgeous, pairing wonderfully with
the deep red leather upholstery. Mild creasing in the leather shows
this was a car that has been used and enjoyed on the road but also
meticulously cared for. Speaking of enjoyment on the road, the
14thseries is highly regarded as one of the finest driving
full-classic Packards. The engine was recently fully rebuilt, and
was highly detailed before being reunited with the chassis. In a
letter to a potential buyer, Mr. Doody declares this Packard
"drives like a dream, turns heads, and always draws applause from
bystanders along the road" and his words are no less true today,
thanks to the cost-no-object care this lovely Super Eight has
enjoyed. This remains a marvelous example of a most desirable
Packard model, ready to impress on CCCA CARavan tours, AACA events
or Packard Club tours or concours events worldwide. Offers welcome
and trades considered For additional details please view this
listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7034-1936-packard-super-eight-coupe-roadster/
