Packard, a pioneer of 12-cylinder automobile engines, introduced a new generation for the Ninth Series of 1932. Called for only this season the Twin Six and the Twelve every season thereafter, it was a wonderful design of “modified L-head” configuration, with some of the combustion chamber in the block, equipped with a zero-lash valve train using a center-mounted camshaft to actuate nearly horizontal valves with hydraulic tappets for smooth, quiet operation. Producing 160 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque, the engine could run a Packard equipped with it upwards of 100 mph.

The Convertible Victoria offered here is one of three known surviving examples of this most elegant style drawn by Raymond Dietrich on the Twin Six chassis. It is the only one of these with the attractive wooden artillery wheels—unusually 18-inch, rather than the standard 17-inch, the only such set known—which add a rather sporting air to its lines. Significantly, the car is stamped on the underside of both doors, the top latches, and a top bow with its original Dietrich job number, 6165. Further, the car retains its original paper tag from its 8 July 1932 test at the Packard Proving Grounds on the underside of the glove box.

Reportedly once owned, or possibly just restored by, the highly prolific Packard collector and restorer John Wheatley, the Twin Six was sold by him to noted enthusiast Guy Beatty of McLean, Virginia, and remained largely secluded within Mr. Beatty’s private collection for many years. Following his passing the Twin Six was sold to a Packard connoisseur in the Midwest. In his ownership the car was extensively freshened, both cosmetically and especially mechanically, in the hands of well-known specialist “Jocko” McNeil of The Enthusiast Garage in Monroe, Michigan. The body is beautifully finished in rich Packard Maroon, accented by red pinstripes, and complimented by a proper tan leather interior, fresh black top with burgundy piping, and blackwall tires for their subtle muscular effect.

Exhibited at The Amelia Concours d'Elegance in 2023, this is a beautiful example of Packard’s masterful 12-cylinder motorcar, superbly finished and with rich heritage evident in its careful preservation and immaculate presentation.