For many, the 1934 model Packards, which the factory dubbed the Eleventh Series, represent the height of the company’s pre-war efforts. They were the final models with traditional open fenders—albeit gently skirted—and the upright radiator shell for which the company had become well known. In addition, the chassis’ adjustable Ride Control suspension and Bijur automatic lubrication produced a car that was a dream to drive. Books have been written solely about this model year Packard, and it is widely considered among the most beautiful and purely enjoyable of all Classic Era production automobiles.

The most desirable body style on this chassis is the sumptuous two-passenger coupe roadster, which had styling inspired by a “semi-custom” design provided by LeBaron in 1931, including the distinctive convertible top that folds flush with the body.

The Super Eight coupe roadster offered here is one of approximately 20 examples known to survive. It retains its original vehicle number tag denoting it as the 129th produced this year and that it was delivered new in Peconic, Long Island, on 14 April 1934. It wears a well-preserved older restoration in Chicory Green, striped in straw yellow with a tan leather interior and cloth top. Accessories include the larger, counterweighted Packard Twelve-style bumpers, as well as a painted radiator shell, both of which were standard on the Twelve but optional on the Super Eight. It is additionally equipped with dual driving lights, dual side-mounted spares with metal covers and mirrors, and a rear luggage rack with full metal trunk. Under former ownership, the car was shown at the Greenwich Concours d’Elegance in 2010.

Every collector should experience the joy of owning a 1934 Packard, and this example, a coupe roadster in charming colors on the well-balanced Super Eight chassis, is ripe for the choosing. It would be equally at home at a regional concours, Classic Car Club of America CARavan, Antique Automobile Club of America tour or Packard Club event.