Engine No.
753896
| Hershey, Pennsylvania
Series 1104. 145 bhp, 384 cu. in. L-head inline eight-cylinder engine, three-speed synchromesh manual transmission, front and rear semi-elliptic leaf-spring suspension with variable-pressure shock absorbers, and vacuum servo-assisted four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 142 in.
For many, the 1934 model Packards, which the factory dubbed the 11th 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 resulted in a car that was a dream to drive. Books have been written solely about this model year Packard, and it is widely considered to be among the most beautiful and purely enjoyable of all Classic Era production automobiles.
The Club Sedan offered here was the 319th of 325 produced on the 142-inch wheelbase Super Eight chassis, representing the most elite eight-cylinder model of the 11th series. Originally delivered to Brooklyn, New York, its history has been traced by the present owner back to 1950, with ownership in the Empire State and Florida. Its most prominent owner was John Hogg III, who owned the car for some 25 years before its acquisition by the current caretaker, a long-time and very active member of the Classic Car Club of America.
The car has been cosmetically and mechanically looked after as decades passed; in the owner’s words, “It has always been well taken care of since new, and no owner, including myself, has ever felt the need to restore it.” The body was repainted some years ago, while the interior is original, with the exception of the upholstery on the front seat, and it is still in good shape throughout. Under the hood, the engine was rebuilt some 15,000 miles ago, with a more recent generator rebuild, and the transmission has been fitted with an electric overdrive, which is a very important addition for long-distance touring.
It is in that sporting pursuit that this car has been most enjoyed. Earlier this year, it was one of 22 cars to complete the CCCA’s Re-Discover America CARavan, a cross-country journey from New York to California. The owner reports that it ran beautifully and quickly, requiring only new tires at the end of the run, which have since been installed, and the aforementioned generator rebuild. In addition, the brakes have been freshly relined.
Simply put, the buyer looking for a powerful CARavan and club tour car that has both elegance and power needs to look no further.
