Fantasy Junction

Description

1937 Packard Super 8 Convertible Coupe
s/n IOI9-280 engine no. 398909 A
Red with Brown Leather Interior

Packard’s largest and most expensive 8-cylinder model, the Super Eight was substantially redesigned for the 1937 model year. The specification was modernized with hydraulic brakes and independent front suspension, while the new car’s more manageable size and lighter weight improved performance. The car was also streamlined, as was fashionable at the time, with a raked radiator. While most examples were in more conservative body styles, a few were the glamorous Convertible Coupe available here.

This particular car was sold new on the 21st of April 1937 by Jordan Motor Sales Company in San Diego. Beyond that, its early history is unknown, but it ended up with a long term Southern California owner by the early 1970’s. He kept the car into the 1990’s, and had much restoration work performed over the years. It later came into the possession of the its current owner’s father, and was in storage for some years. In May-June of 2009, the car was sympathetically recommissioned by respected prewar automobile expert Laurence Anderson, with various fixes performed, chassis lubrication, new oil and antifreeze, flush hydraulic system and new hydraulic fluid, servicing the carburetor, balanced the points, refreshed the spark plugs, replaced parking brake cable, and replaced some of the front suspension bushes as well. The invoice for this work, as well as service records back to the early 1970’s are included. The car runs extremely well at present.

Cosmetically, the car presents as an attractive example that has a well-preserved older restoration. The paint is in very good shape and of good quality, with few blemishes. The panels fit quite well. The chrome is attractive overall, but does have some fine pitting and scratches visible on close inspection. The wheels and hubcaps are nice, though the white walls of the tires are showing age. The glass and lamps are excellent, save for the side quarter windows, which are delaminating.

The interior is in nice shape as well, with an even patina. The leather upholstery and dashboard are both in fine shape, particularly the instruments. One of the buttons on the seat is missing. The armrests and wood show some aging but remain serviceable. The carpets are in good shape, and the overall impression of the interior is strong, both in the main compartment and in the rumble area.

The engine compartment has an honest and correct presentation. It is very clean and presents as would be expected for an older restored car. There are a few areas of deterioration to the finishes and some soiling, but the engine compartment is very nice overall.

The car drives and performs extremely well. It feels very solid and reassuring, and the operation of the controls is extremely satisfying. The engine is very smooth and quiet, and the gearbox excellent. There is an impressive sureness to the steering or in the operation of the controls, and the overall impression from the driving experience is extremely impressive.

This is a great opportunity to acquire a lovely example of this Packard. This car has a very nice unmolested solidity that makes it a pleasure to drive, which is well-substantiated by its long time dry climate ownership. It also presents very nicely and attracts lots of positive attention, making this a great car to actually use and enjoy.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608