Period Packard advertising for the Custom One-Eighty read, “Even for those to whom the luxurious is commonplace, this magnificent new Packard One-Eighty holds eye-widening wonders. This is Packard’s finest. Of this car we are proudest.” The copywriters were earning their salaries. A total of ten body styles were offered but the most elegant was this Formal Sedan with blind rear quarters and a padded roof bodied by Packard.

This example is a very good original car that has never undergone a full restoration. The car has been repainted, with a new interior and mechanical work done as required, and is just what it appears to be – a handsome, exclusive and very usable automobile. The exterior is finished in dark blue while the interior is finished in a combination of dark tan and a very appealing light brown. Special equipment includes a radio and heater, dual sidemount spares with rearview mirrors, chrome wheel trim rings and full wheel covers, bumper guards and foglights. The Packard Goddess of Speed hood ornament adorns the stylishly narrowed upright grille. It’s reported 1,900 Packard Custom One-Eighty automobiles were sold in 1940 making it a rare car indeed.