Chassis no. 609-109

Series 1001. 130-hp, 319.2-cid L-head inline eight-cylinder engine, three-speed manual transmission, solid front axle and live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 127.5-inch

As America inaugurated a new President in March 1933, Packard retained its place as the nation’s leading luxury car and was prominently placed in the parade on Pennsylvania Avenue. The new Tenth Series had debuted in January, and featured two eight-cylinder lines, Eight and Super Eight, and an extensive catalog of Twelves, the latter including cataloged customs from coachbuilders Dietrich and LeBaron.

The Tenth Series, offered in a staggering array of 55 body styles on five different wheelbases, proved unusually fleeting. By August, with fewer than 5,000 built, it had been discontinued and succeeded by the Eleventh Series. Survivors, as a result, are quite rare.

A California car for much of its life, this 10th Series Packard was originally sold by Packard, Inc., of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Professionally restored in the early 1990s, it has seen excellent care and very few miles since. Contours, paint and brightwork are all very good. The top is tan canvas with matching boot, all in good condition. The seats are upholstered in buttoned tan leather, the driver’s section showing modest use. Brown carpet lines the floor, and the instrument panel is nicely restored, with attractive gauges and excellent wood-grain.

The chassis and underbody are painted in the deep red body color, all scrupulously clean.

The car is equipped with a rear-mounted spare, rumble seat with golf bag door on the passenger side, Trippe driving lights, adjustable shock absorbers and Bijur automatic chassis lubrication. The tires are 7.50-17 wide whitewall Denmans. It bears Classic Car Club of America Senior medallion 1462, testament to its honors on the show circuit.

Fewer than 1,800 Series 1001 Packards, in all body styles, were built during the short model year. This is an opportunity to acquire a rate and desirable example. Ready for participation in all CCCA, AACA and other vintage functions, it is bound to please its next new owner.