Vehicle Description
In the late 1920s, Packard was riding high on a wave of record
sales and profits. With little indication of the economic trouble
to come for the luxury car market as a whole, the company forged
ahead with its latest model, the Seventh Series, introduced in
August 1929, just a few months shy of the stock market crash. The
range opened with the 726 and 733 Standard Eight, followed by the
uncharacteristically sporty 734 Speedster, culminating in the 740
Custom Eight, and finally the flagship 745 Deluxe Eight. Ray
Dietrich, head of Packard's in-house styling department, modified
the design language he created for the 6th series, making it lower
and more graceful while shedding any ties with the 1920s once and
for all. Packard now employed the same standard bodies across the
range, while the hood length made up the difference in wheelbase
between the models.Among the vast array of open and closed body
styles offered by Packard and other coachbuilders on the 740 Custom
Eight chassis, the seven-passenger Touring was a particularly
distinguished offering, appealing to those who sought both grandeur
and open-air motoring. Handsome and imposing, this body style
exuded stately presence, enhanced by thoughtful touches such as a
second folding rear windshield for additional passenger comfort.
Styled and built at Packard's in-house body shop, it exemplified
the glamor and grandeur of the early 1930s and remained one of the
most collectible classic-era American automobiles.Our featured
example is a 740 Custom Eight dual-windshield Touring from 1930.
This is an extremely well-preserved older restoration that performs
well and presents in very attractive condition. The body is
finished in a handsome combination of aubergine over taupe with a
mauve beltline, and chrome wire wheels. It's a surprisingly
attractive combination that sets this car apart from others. The
styling is very sporting for a large car, particularly with the
canvas top erected, which imparts a rakish and aggressive look,
particularly in profile. Paint quality and body work are excellent
with only minor signs of age on this quality restoration. The
chrome and brightwork are in similarly excellent condition, showing
deep shine and minimal flaws. The imposing Packard radiator shell
is protected by a stainless steel stone guard, while windwings,
cowl lamps, outside mirrors, dual Trippe lights and a trunk rack
round out the accessories.The gorgeous interior is trimmed in dark
tan mottled leather which finely complements the exterior paint
colors. In the rear are a pair of occasional jump seats, allowing
up to seven passengers. Detailing of the dash, instruments,
controls, and decorative trim is exceptional, showing just the
slightest bit of age. Likewise, the black Haartz cloth top is in
excellent condition, including a complete set of side curtains. The
wood-grained dash is restored with deep gloss and the instruments
are presented beautifully in the center of the fascia. The black
Haartz cloth folding convertible top fits well and remains taut,
while the folding rear windshield provides passengers with
additional wind protection-an element that elevates this Packard's
already prestigious presence.Certainly stylish and dapper, this
Packard is also mechanically excellent, thanks to regular use and
care since the restoration was completed. Packard's legendary
125-horsepower L-head inline-eight is very well-presented in the
engine bay. It is correctly painted in Packard green with a silver
crankcase and black porcelain enamel accessories, however there is
some wear to the exhaust manifold. These powerful and robust
engines are among the finest of their time, paired with the
meticulously engineered 740 chassis, making for an unforgettable
driving experience.The grand 740 tends to shrink around the driver
once out on the road making them among the most enjoyable large
classics to drive and extremely popular among touring enthusiasts.
As a CCCA approved Full Classic, it would be extremely well-suited
for CARavan Touring and a welcome addition to any collection of
fine automobiles. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6574-1930-packard-740-phaeton/
