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
