Chassis # 345712, Engine #342752, Vehicle #52112, Steering box #345877

The Standard Eight Packards for 1932 were an exciting addition to the Depression-era luxury car market. They were lower, longer and faster than previous similar offerings from Packard Motor Car Company. The Standard Eight saw several modifications including an increase to a 6.0 to 1 compression ratio on the nine main bearing, 319.2 cubic inch straight eight engine. The resulting 110 bhp was fed to the rear wheels through a three-speed, full-synchromesh gearbox with vacuum clutch. The new 136.5 inch wheelbase double-drop frame with cross-bracing featured ride control as standard, making the Ninth Series Packards smooth and comfortable.

Despite these improvements, the 902 Packards represented a slightly less expensive entry point into the luxury car market still hampered by the effects of the stock market crash of 1929. This foresight enabled Packard to survive the Depression and maintain profitability until well into the 1950s, something that other luxury marques failed to achieve.

This example of the 902, featuring the 521 ‘Sport Phaeton’ body style, was sold new from the Kahn-designed Packard showroom in Buffalo, New York on December 24th, 1931. The car was professionally restored for the show circuit, including an appearance at the legendary Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance and has been lovingly maintained since. This stately automobile is nicely appointed with dual cowl-mounted spotlights, dual sidemount spares, chrome wire wheels, wide whitewall tires, Pilot Ray driving lights that turn with the steering wheel and the optional Packard Stone Radiator Guard. The car is presented in a classic color scheme of blue paint over a blue leather interior with tan convertible top.

For many pre-war American automobile connoisseurs, an open Packard represents the height of motoring luxury and sophistication. With the exceptionally smooth and yet simple to maintain straight eight engine, this CCCA Full Classic is an ideal choice for any CARavan event, show field, or anywhere else a truly sophisticated automobile is appreciated.