THE TWELFTH SERIES TWELVE

For the first time in Packard history, the factory issued a bulletin to dealers, along with press releases to the media, that its Twelfth Series, introduced on 30 August 1934, would also be known as 1935 models; Packards built prior to the Twelfth Series may not be properly described by the model year, as Packard introduced cars at varying times throughout the calendar year. Thus, only Packards manufactured following August 1934 are properly referred to by their designated model year. This came about for two reasons. First, Packard wanted to comply with President Roosevelt’s request that automobile announcements be as early in the fall as possible to help stabilize and reduce unemployment during the winter months. Second, Packard was a member of the Automobile Manufacturers Association and was partial to holding the new auto show in November rather than in January.

All the hoopla at Packard in 1935 centered on the new low-priced One Twenty model, a first for the marque from East Grand Boulevard. Regardless, Packard remained the leader in luxury automobiles and the Twelve was, without question, the grandest expression of luxury in the Packard model hierarchy. New styling gave the car a restrained, streamlined appearance, and the V-12 was stroked to 473 cubic inches, gaining new aluminum cylinder heads while conservatively rated at 175 horsepower. Twelves continued to be quality checked by the factory and then given a 250-mile run on the Packard test track at nearby Utica, driven by Colonel Jesse Vincent’s brother, Charles, before delivery.

In total, only 788 V-12s were produced for 1935.

VEHICLE NUMBER 827-218

The wonderful 1207 Twelve Convertible Victoria offered here is identified by its original vehicle number plate as having been delivered new in California. According to the consignor, it remained with its original owner until the late 1940s, then was purchased by an early enthusiast on the West Coast. For almost 40 years, the car was annually taken out, driven for an hour or so, then returned to the garage, put up on blocks, and stored with its fluids drained and the battery removed. Eventually, ill health prevented him from continuing this process, and the car was put into storage on his farm, until the present owner acquired it from his estate.

The car is presented as a well-preserved “barn find” that is, nonetheless, in good mechanical condition, and recently successfully completed a 45-minute drive around town. Recent mechanical servicing included the fitment of an excellent used front timing cover, replacing the original unit that had developed a leak, and repair of the small radiator in the oil-to-coolant intercooler. Furthermore, the black paint finish still has a good shine to it, and the interior remains in very usable condition, allowing for the possibility of it to undergo further sorting and be put to use on CCCA CARavans.

An interesting feature of the car is a steel tonneau extension, which is shaped to match the body and fits into place over the rear seat, giving the car the look of a very long-wheelbase convertible coupe. This is believed to be an original period accessory, although it is not clear whether it came from a Packard dealer or an external supplier.

Boasting outstanding provenance, as well as its original vehicle number and body number tags and the original engine, this is one of the most exciting Packard Twelves to come to market in recent memory. It will undoubtedly be the star of the next CARavan or the best possible place to begin an exquisite restoration.