Vehicle Description
Long considered one of the most beautiful of all Classic Era
production automobiles, Packard's gorgeous 11th series is one of
the finest of its kind. These gorgeous machines marked the turning
point for Packard styling, as the full-figured front fenders grew
ever more integrated into the bodywork from 1935 onward. Not only
beautiful, they were also magnificently engineered - conservative
in terms of technology, but robust, exceptionally well-constructed
and very rewarding to drive. The three models of the 11th series
were available on three different wheelbase chassis. In total, 41
different combinations of engines, wheelbases and body styles were
available to buyers. Adding diversity and prestige to the range
were 17 'catalog customs' bodied by coachbuilders LeBaron and
Dietrich. The two-seat (with rumble seat) coupe body was one of the
most sporting styles on offer, appealing to wealthy playboys who
didn't have to worry about seating a family. Only the two-seat
roadster could top the coupe in terms of pure form over function.
For many years, the two seat coupe was seen as an ideal candidate
to convert to an open roadster, when values for the roadsters
skyrocketed, many unscrupulous restorers took advantage by lopping
the roofs off coupes. As a result, an uncut, unmolested coupe has
become a true rarity in the Packard world. With newfound
appreciation for these gorgeous automobiles, they have become ever
more desirable, particularly for enthusiasts who enjoy touring with
their Packards. The Rumble Seat Coupe strikes an ideal balance of
stunning style with all-weather capability. Combine that with
legendary Packard reliability and ease of use, and you have a
near-perfect choice for classic touring and events. Our featured
1934 Packard Super Eight Coupe is a very fine example of this rare
and desirable factory body. Very few have survived over the years,
with many being rebodied or cut into roadsters. The most recent
keeper of this lovely Packard acquired the car from long-term
ownership on the East Coast. The older restoration presents
exceptionally well in its striking two-tone paint combination of
red with dark burgundy fenders and swage lines. The paint looks
great, but up close it is showing its age, with some crazing
evident in the red.� It is well optioned with dual side-mount spare
wheels with fully enveloping metal covers, Swan radiator mascot,
dual Trippe driving lights, and gorgeous new chrome wire wheels
shod with blackwall tires. Red painted brake drums appear behind
the chrome wires, imparting a decidedly sporty look. The chrome
trim is in very good condition, showing just a slight bit of age in
places but otherwise still supremely attractive and in keeping with
the overall feeling of quality of this restoration. This is quite
simply a visually stunning machine from all angles, the proportions
border on perfection, thanks in no small part to the grand 142"
wheelbase of the Super Eight chassis. Occupants of this wonderful
machine are cosseted in freshly upholstered black leather seats.
Matching black door panels are capped with gorgeous wood trim which
flows into a beautiful woodgrain dash. The instrument panel
features a full array of gauges in a beautifully detailed chrome
and paint binnacle. The dash, steering wheel and instruments show
just a slight bit of patina from use since the restoration, making
it a very pleasing and comfortable place to spend an afternoon of
motoring. This being a two-place coupe, a rumble seat is out back
for occasional rear passengers, which is trimmed in black leather
to match the cabin. Packard's big 384.8 cubic inch L-head inline
eight produces a silken 145 horsepower and an ocean of effortless
torque. It puts power through a three speed manual gearbox which is
known for its ease of operation and smooth shifting. Every car
enthusiast should experience driving a Packard of this era at least
once, as they are surprisingly tractable, incredibly smooth and
remarkably easy to drive for such a large and grand car. This
example's big Eight is tidy and clean in the engine bay, presented
in proper Packard green on the block with a silver crankcase.
Importantly, it is also the original engine to this car, as
indicated by the chassis and engine numbers being in very close
sequence. Correct plug wires and other details make for an
attractive yet functional look. Some signs of use are apparent,
making this a car that encourages one to drive rather than to sit
it in a garage and keep sterile. The chassis is likewise tidy and
fully functional, with excellent four-wheel mechanical brakes
keeping things under control. The 1934 Super Eight is one of the
most highly regarded models from Packard, and many enthusiasts
believe the 11th series to be the pinnacle of this storied marque.
This gorgeous example is of course a recognized CCCA Full Classic
and would be a simply sublime choice for CARavan touring, AACA
Touring or simply weekend exploring your favorite roads.