For Sale: 1930 Packard Super Eight in Saint Louis, Missouri

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