Although 1932 was not a banner year for sales, Packard’s new, expanded lineup was one of the most stylish in the company’s history. The new Ninth Series was introduced early on June 17, 1931. The cars were all longer, lower and faster than the 1931 models. The 319.2-cid Standard Eight inline engine was modified with a redesigned manifold and fan. An increase in compression ratio to 6.0:1 produced 110 horsepower. Noise and vibration was improved thanks to a redesigned air cleaner; the driveshaft being jointed and rubber-mounted, and the fitting of new rubber engine mounts. The lengthened chassis was redesigned, as were the components. In its new double-drop frame a four-speed all-synchromesh transmission was fitted, but around mid-year it was replaced by a three-speed synchromesh unit. Chassis lubrication remained via the Bijur system, but the 40 points were now all oiled automatically thanks to a new system. A new adjustable shock absorber system known as “Ride Control” allowed the driver a choice of three settings to tune-in the desired ride. This was controlled by a plunger near the driver’s left knee that controlled the amount of oil to the shock absorbers.

For 1932, one of the most attractive in the Series 902 was Body No. 509, the Coupe Roadster. With its snug fitting top and roll-up windows, it was really no longer a roadster, but actually a convertible coupe. A new top design allowed it to be folded flat into the body, which when down provided the Coupe Roadster with a fluid, graceful appearance. All the Packard Coupe Roadster models were fitted with a rumbleseat. With a list price ranging from $2,650 to $2,850, wire wheels were standard, but dual sidemounts, as seen on this example, were an option.

This 1932 Packard Coupe Roadster was built by Packard of Canada (Windsor) and was delivered new on April 12, 1933 to Packard Montreal Motor Company Ltd. The car has been nicely restored and the two-tone colors are beautifully presented on its sweeping lines. Painted in a taupe shade with dark blue fenders and belt molding, the soft-top is black cloth and the interior is in a complementary shade of taupe that blends it all together. The wire wheels have chrome spokes and matching blue painted hubs and rims which are fitted with period-sized wide whitewalls. This Series 902 portrays a sporty elegance that many feel was increasingly lost in later models.

Under the hood you’ll find a nicely presented engine bay with the Packard Straight Eight engine in excellent running condition. A mechanical refreshening has been executed by Howe Motor Works. Inside, the interior panels and seat show minimal wear, as does the accompanying carpet. For 1932 Packard designed a striking new instrument panel of dark burled walnut with the instruments grouped in a blue/black engine-turned sub-panel, all elegant in their staging. Desirable features such as dual sidemounts, Tripp driving lights, horns, a stylish golf door, luggage rack and windshield windwings add to the enormous appeal and pleasure that will be derived from owning this fine, classic Packard.

In 1932 Packard delivered only 3,737 Series 902 models in 12 variant styles and far fewer were built of the handsome Coupe Roadster design. A classic at the time of its introduction with its grand style, power and fine road-holding, it remains so to this day amongst Packard aficionados and is recognized as such by the respected Classic Car Club of America.