Registration No: BF 4548
Chassis No: 291178
MOT: Exempt

• Rare right-hand drive Packard Standard Eight
• Delivered new to Australia
• Rebodied as a pickup during the Second World War
• Original Packard Roadster body fitted after the war
• Older restoration still presenting exceptionally well

By the end of the 1920s, Packard had arguably become the last word in American automotive fashion. Outselling rival Cadillac by three to one, its distinctive tombstone grilles graced the drives of many a business tycoon, film star and politician. Yet behind the glitz Packards remained machines of real substance, the marque recording a whole host of US car industry firsts including: the steering wheel, H-pattern gearshift, V12 engine, thermostatic engine cooling, four-wheel brakes, hypoid rear axle, air conditioning, automatic overdrive, and torsion bar-suspension. Responsible for maintaining the Detroit firm's preeminent position, the Seventh Series Packards were introduced on August 20^th, 1929. Visually distinguished by a more voluptuous wing line which better matched the era's prevailing Art Deco sensibility not to mention a thermostatically controlled radiator grille and subtle lighting changes, the newcomers were engineered to the same exacting standards as their predecessors.

The Standard Eight range was powered by a 385 cu in (6.3 litre) 106hp straight-eight engine allied to four-speed manual transmission. Riding on supple leaf-sprung suspension and benefiting from four-wheel assisted mechanical drum brakes, the Model 740 allied authoritative performance to impressive refinement. Featuring a redesigned water pump and twin fan belts for improved cooling not to mention a more efficient Bijur chassis lubrication system that via its 'Pull Daily' dash control was reputed to do the work of '43 men with 43 oil cans', the Standard Eight could be had with a wide variety of open and closed coachwork. Sporting a fold-flat windscreen, retractable rumble seat, golfer's locker, high belt / low roof line, twin-blade bumpers and dual side-mounted spare wheels, the Model 733 Roadster was wonderfully rakish. Lighter and more self-indulgent than its siblings, the 2/4-seater was priced at an equally luxurious $3,190. However, even Packard could not escape the effects of The Great Depression with production totalling 28,386 cars in 1930 (some 40 percent down on previous years).

Offered here is a rare right-hand drive Packard Standard Eight with the chassis number 291178. It was originally delivered new to Australia in 1930, making it a unique and historically significant vehicle. During the Second World War, it was repurposed as a pickup truck, likely for utilitarian purposes given the circumstances of the time. However, after the war, the Packard underwent a restoration, and an original U.S-built Packard Roadster body, supplied by Kellow-Falkiner of Melbourne, was meticulously fitted back onto the chassis. This restoration process aimed to restore the Packard to its original glory and highlight its timeless design. One notable feature of this Packard Standard Eight is the inclusion of a dickey-seat, which is complemented by a very rare fold-out rear screen. This feature adds to the uniqueness and charm of the vehicle, allowing for an intimate and nostalgic driving experience. Despite its age, this Packard Standard Eight still maintains an exceptional appearance and overall condition. While it has undergone an older restoration, the vehicle has been well-preserved and presents itself impressively well in all respects. Its exterior boasts a stunning shine, and the interior exudes a sense of luxury and comfort. The current vendor acquired this Packard Standard Eight in 2007 and has since taken great care of it, ensuring its proper maintenance and upkeep. The vehicle has been meticulously maintained to keep it in optimal mechanical order, ensuring smooth and reliable driving experiences. To summarize, this rare right-hand drive Packard Standard Eight, chassis 291178, holds a significant place in automotive history. Delivered new to Australia in 1930, it underwent various transformations, including a stint as a pickup truck during the Second World War. Restored with an original Packard Roadster body, it now boasts a unique combination of elegance, craftsmanship, and historical significance. With its rare fold-out rear screen and well-preserved condition, this Packard Standard Eight is a highly desirable collector's item for vintage car enthusiasts.

For more information, please contact:
Julian Pinkster
julian.pinkster@handh.co.uk
07889 223 904