Vehicle Description
Most enthusiasts will agree that Packard's glory days began in
earnest in the late 1920s and ran through the mid-1930s. During
this time, the famed Detroit automaker was building some of the
finest automobiles on the market, expanding its reputation around
the world and supplying machines to moguls and Hollywood stars. The
over-engineered nature of their chassis and engines earned them a
reputation of exceptional reliability. Packard also offered a
staggering array of body, chassis and engine combinations that
could be tailored to suit virtually any client, providing they had
the necessary funds. For the more discerning clientele with deeper
pockets, a chassis could be fitted with a bespoke body by any one
of twenty custom body builders at their disposal. Packards of this
era were grand, yet elegantly restrained. They are considered by
many to be the very finest automobiles of their time. The model 443
of 1928 was part of the Fourth Series and was one of the most
impressive automobiles of its day. It rode on an immense 143"
wheelbase regardless of body style, giving it a sense of presence
that few could match. Motivation was courtesy of a nearly silent
straight-eight that displaced 383 cubic inches, and produced an
understressed 109 horsepower and a steady wave of torque. As with
other Packards of this period, the 443 was not an intimidating car
to drive thanks to the slick gearbox, powerful brakes and excellent
road manners, and it was preferred by famous people the world over,
including famous French aviator Dieudonne Costes and H.R.H. the
Prince of Wales, among others. Our featured example is a 443 Eight
dual-windshield Phaeton from 1928. 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 medium brown with dark brown beltline, black fenders
and dark orange disc wheels and body accents. It's a surprisingly
attractive combination that sets this car apart from others. The
signature Packard disc wheels are fitted with whitewall tires all
around, including the dual sidemount spares. 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 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 and a trunk
rack round out the accessories. The gorgeous interior is trimmed in
dark tan leather which finely complements the exterior paint
colors. Being a dual-windshield Phaeton, rear passengers have their
own adjustable windscreen with windwings to keep them comfortable
and unruffled during a top-down blast. A past owner installed a set
of handsome wooden cabinets behind the driver's seat which appears
to be the only deviation from originality in the cabin, and would
make a rather nice drinks-cabinet to keep rear passengers even
happier than they would already be. The wood dash and door caps are
restored with deep gloss and the instruments presented beautifully
in the center of the fascia. Certainly stylish and dapper, this
Packard is also mechanically excellent, thanks to regular use and
care since the restoration was completed. The 383 cubic inch inline
eight cylinder starts readily and performance is excellent for a
car of this size and stature. The grand 443 has a tendency 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. Thanks to the obvious care this example has
received, it remains attractive enough for show. 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.