For 1933 Packard updated its eight-cylinder model line with a new dual downdraft Stromberg carburetor that increased output to 120 horsepower. Two different chassis lengths were offered, with the Model 1001 riding the shorter 127.5-inch. wheelbase. The 1001 was available with four different types of coachwork, of which perhaps none was more arresting than the sleek Coupe Roadster.

This beautifully restored Model 1001 was originally retailed by the Goldner Brothers Motor Company in Germantown, Pennsylvania, and by the mid-1970s the car was owned by Fred Ross, Jr. of Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey. In 1976 the Coupe Roadster was purchased by the consignor, and he immediately embarked on a comprehensive restoration that took 20 years to complete.

While the owner supervised the disassembly, sand blasting, and welding himself, numerous local craftsmen were retained to conduct the balance of the work. Ray Hanney rebuilt the original eight-cylinder engine, and Bob Moor refinished the exterior in a proper shade of maroon, while Guy Shively provided the complementary pinstriping. Ernie Stumby fitted new wood trim to the interior, Lief Drexler expertly retrimmed the upholstery, Dick Kesselring sewed and fitted a new Stayfast soft top, and the well-known Dayton Wire Wheels rebuilt the wheels. Every mechanical element was rebuilt as needed, including the brakes, springs, shock absorbers, and gas tank, and a new exhaust system was installed. The painstakingly refurbished Packard was then presented at several shows, winning an AACA Second Junior award at Hershey in 2004, and an AACA First Junior award at Warren a year later.

In September 2018 the Model 1001 was inspected by Packard expert George Holinga; using concours standards he judged the car worthy of 398 out of 400 possible points. In an appraisal on file, he asserts the restoration has aged extremely well, and that the car exhibits numerous Packard-correct elements, such as the paint color, the interior leather, and the stitching pattern. He notes that all mechanical components and ancillary electrical systems function properly while remaining true to original specifications. Mr. Holinga furthermore adds that all chrome has either been properly re-plated or fitted with new-original-stock components. Perhaps most significantly, he contends that only 205 examples of the Model 1001 Coupe Roadster were built, of which just eight are known to still exist, illustrating this car’s extreme rarity.

Still displaying the ravishing benefits of 45 years of single ownership, this impressively restored and rare Packard would make an outstanding acquisition for any marque enthusiast.