Vehicle Description
This 1928 Packard 526 two-passenger rumble seat coupe is a machine
for the person who knows the difference between a car show and a
concours. After all, a Packard was a sign of wealth and distinction
when it was new, and the reputation has only grown on a
well-resorted and well-respected example like this.
Packards have always been about providing premium motoring, but
this one shows a high level of class in its authenticity. The
bodywork, chrome grille, solid pinstripe wheels, lights, and all
other major components look like they were in the care of someone
who knew that maintaining did not mean fidgeting. The story we're
told is that this was in long-term storage in a dry New Mexico
climate. It was a bit of a barn find when it was resurrected, and
it was given a proper restoration in the late 1990s by someone who
understood the details correctly. In fact, this one represents one
of the most interesting parts of Packard's history. These were not
built like other Detroit machines that wanted you to trade in and
trade up every few years. Packards wanted to have a lasting quality
(it was great for vigor and the reputation, but it often meant no
customer needed to buy another.) And this one takes that level of
character to heart because it's beautifully sleek and clean overall
condition means you won't know the age of the restoration unless we
told you. The two-tone green body has a smooth and high-gloss
finish to bring added attention to this subtly sophisticated color
combo. And everything is thoughtfully coordinated, which is why the
pinstripe on the body is repeated on the wheels, and the black
fenders go so well with the black vinyl roof cover. And there are
also just the right hints of originality. Pieces like the matching
spare on the rear and material on the back of the tumble seat
appear like they are approaching the century mark. The age of these
pieces is unconfirmed, but they have the kind of appearance that
will certainly be a catalyst to talk about this barn find's
story.
The interior goes for more of that authentic feeling, right down to
the large four-spoke steering wheel with spark retard controls. But
there's also the right solid driver feeling you want on a car like
this. It comes from good body seals, an updated bench seat, and a
more accurate readout for the very important engine temperature.
There might be a place or two that could use a new lacquer finish
or a refresh to the carpeting. But that's only if you're looking to
get picky on a car that has an authentic sense of style while also
giving you the right updates to still lead the parade. After all,
everyone from grandchildren to dignitaries looks good in a
Packard's rumble seat.
Powering this Packard is the 289 cubic-inch L-head straight six,
which is said to have been rebuilt during the restoration, and the
consignor believes is original to the car. The clean style is at
the heart of the strong but smooth powerhouse, and the three-speed
manual transmission gives you proper control. 1928 was the final
year for the "Single Six" and constant improvement to this model
meant its 82 hp was now approaching its larger eight-cylinder
brother. All Packards carried the same engineering marvels of the
time such as the four-wheel brakes and chassis lubrication system.
While the six-cylinder was a bit more economical, it is like trying
to compare Rolls-Royces today. The cost of this coupe when new
could have bought around six Ford Model A's. In fact, Packard used
a great analogy to help people understand why the 526 models were
so expensive. The company would mention that people once bought
paper-soled shoes until they realized buying better shoes lasted
longer. So Packard warned others not to pay less for paper-soled
cars. So this rumble seat coupe really represents the enduring
legacy that a proper Packard is all about.
Packard promoted this one as a car that offered beauty,
distinction, comfort, long life, economy, and safety. Nearly a
century later, we couldn't agree more. Call today!!!
