Packard 734 Roadster 1929
General description :
The Sixth Series exemplifies Packard’s impeccable reputation, with smooth, refined 8-cylinder engines across the range and exquisite coachwork that immediately identified Packard owners as possessing the finest available in performance, luxury and style.
It was August 1928 when Packard introduced the 640 Custom line, and the Roaring Twenties were in full swing. The stock market crash of 1929 was over a year away, without so much as a hint of its possibility. In early 1929 Packard even introduced their first sports car, the famed 626 Speedster, for Twenties gents who couldn’t wait to spend their anticipated profits from the surging stock market.
Perhaps the most flamboyant of all the 1929 Packards was the 640 Custom Eight Roadster, a snappy two-seater with a rumble seat, set on the long 140 ½” wheelbase chassis that was typically the reserve of large, commodious 5- and 7-passenger enclosed bodies. It was conspicuous consumption of a very Twenties character with Packard’s usual balance of flair and refinement which endears it to today’s collectors as one of the most desirable models of the era.
This 1929 Packard 640 Custom Roadster is an excellent example of this sought-after model. It is well-restored and maintained and also lavishly equipped with numerous period-correct accessories. The handsome livery consists of a cream body accented by Brewster Green fenders, wire wheels and frame aprons. The green theme carries over to the marvelous leather upholstery which protected by a beige canvas top. Front fenders house a pair of side-mount spares with beige cloth covers, and at the back is a folding luggage rack with wooden slats. The opening windshield has both windwings and a searchlight on the driver’s side. A pair of Trippe Speedlights illuminate the road in front of the stone guard-equipped radiator, topped with a Goddess of Speed (affectionately known as the “donut chaser”) mascot.
This gorgeous Packard was restored some time ago, as indicated by the 1994 AACA National First Prize badge, yet it has been well-maintained and cared for subsequently and presents very well with sound paint, interior, glass and top. The big 385 cubic-inch engine provides ample performance, sending its 105 horsepower through a three-speed transmission.
As desirable in the 21st century as it was 92 years ago when it was built, this Packard 640 Roadster invites the driver and passenger to take to the open road on a search for adventure that began almost a century ago.
Offers welcome and trades considered
1929 Packard 734 Roadster is listed for sale on ClassicDigest in St. Louis by Hyman Ltd. for $169500.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Packard Model : 734 Model Version : Roadster Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1929 Sub type : Convertible Location : Missouri Vehicle Registration : Undefined
169500 $
People who viewed this Packard 734 also viewed similar Packard listed at ClassicDigest
Packard 734
Essex
Other cars listed for sale by this dealer
AC Cobra 289
195000$
Missouri
Other Other
142500$
Missouri
Packard Twelve
139500$
Missouri
Ferrari Testarossa
159500$
Missouri
Ferrari 330 GTS
2275000$
Missouri
About Packard
Packard: A Comprehensive HistoryEarly Years and Foundation:
Founding: The Packard Motor Car Company was established in 1899 in Warren, Ohio, by James Ward Packard, William Doud Packard, and George Lewis Weiss.
Pioneering Luxury: Initially producing high-quality automobiles, Packard became synonymous with luxury, craftsmanship, and engineering excellence.
Notable Achievements and Contributions:
Packard Twin Six: Introduced in 1916, this V12-powered car established Packard as a premier luxury automobile brand.
Model Line Expansion: Packard expanded its lineup with various models, including sedans, coupes, convertibles, and limousines, catering to affluent customers seeking elegance and performance.
Engineering Innovations: The brand introduced several innovations, such as the first use of aluminum pistons, air conditioning, and the Ultramatic automatic transmission.
Ten Historically Significant Models with Technical Specifications:
Packard Twin Six (1916):
Engine: 7.3L V12 engine.
Performance: Around 85 horsepower.
Packard Eight (1930-1938):
Engine: Straight-8 engine with various displacements.
Performance: Ranged from 90 to over 130 horsepower.
Packard Super Eight (1939-1951):
Engine: Straight-8 engine.
Performance: Produced between 130 to 180 horsepower.
Packard One-Twenty (1935-1942):
Engine: Straight-8 engine.
Performance: Approximately 100 to 120 horsepower.
Packard Clipper (1941-1957):
Engine: V8 engine.
Performance: Ranging from 135 to 185 horsepower.
Packard Caribbean (1953-1956):
Engine: V8 engine.
Performance: Varying between 275 to 310 horsepower.
Packard Patrician (1951-1956):
Engine: Inline-8 and V8 engines.
Performance: Ranged from 150 to 180 horsepower.
Packard Hawk (1958):
Engine: V8 engine.
Performance: Produced around 275 horsepower.
Packard Executive (1956-1958):
Engine: V8 engine.
Performance: Varying between 240 to 290 horsepower.
Packard Predictor (1956):
Engine: Concept car showcasing design and technology.
Performance: Prototype model.
Legacy and Influence:
Quality and Elegance: Packard was revered for its exceptional build quality, refined styling, and luxury features, often considered on par with European luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz.
End of Production: The brand faced financial struggles in the 1950s, leading to its merger with Studebaker and eventual discontinuation in the late 1950s, marking the end of an era in American luxury automobiles.
Packard left an enduring legacy in the automotive industry, symbolizing elegance, engineering excellence, and a commitment to luxury that has been admired and respected by car enthusiasts worldwide.