Although the Packard Six was positioned as a more affordable offering compared to the larger and costlier cars produced by the marque, it was by no means a cut-rate automobile. Company leadership clearly recognized the importance and quality of its six-cylinder engines and the cars built around them: Consider that Packard’s most prestigious and expensive “Senior” models were known as Twin Sixes long before they were dubbed Twelves.

The Fifth Series Packard Six was introduced in July 1927 as a 1928 model. The catalogue spanned 11 models on two wheelbases. A newly introduced production two-seater Runabout roadster rode on the shorter, 126-inch wheelbase and was highly attractive with a low, sporty stance. Its rumble seat offered additional seating for two, while side curtains afforded protection for cabin occupants in less pleasant weather. Improvements to the 81-horsepower L-head straight-six engine included an oil filter, choke-operated cylinder lubrication, and an additional engine mount, for a total of four. After the 1928 model year, Packard discontinued its six-cylinder models until 1937.

Not much is known about this Runabout’s early history, but copies of ownership records indicate that it was owned in the early 1960s by a Mr. Albert Giovinnazi of Vineland, New Jersey, and owned by a subsequent caretaker in Quebec in the 1990s. The car is said to have received a high-quality restoration in the late 1980s, reportedly using factory-correct parts. Under current ownership since May 2008, it is beautifully finished in an attractive color combination of beige and black with yellow detailing on the doors and color-matched wheels. A tan soft-top shades the inviting interior, which is finished in sumptuous brown leather. Desirable exterior features include driving lights, dual side-mounted spares with mirrors, a radiator mascot, wide whitewall tires, and a rear luggage rack with a finely detailed trunk.

Approachable, inherently attractive, and heaped with character, this well-presented Packard Six Runabout, a Classic Car Club of America Full Classic, is ideal for showing and touring alike.