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Packard Light Eight Speedster Runabout 1930

General description : In 1930, Packard took a big step outside of its comfort zone as well as deliberate swing at cross-town rival Cadillac with the introduction of the sporty, driver-focused 734 Speedster. The 734 (7thseries, 134” wheelbase) was based on a new, shortened and strengthened chassis that was designed exclusively for the model. Built in Packard’s new in-house custom shop, each 734 received a revised version of the proven 385 cubic inch straight-eight engine. The engine was upgraded with a newly designed separate intake manifold, oversize updraught carburetor, and a 45-degree mounted, finned exhaust manifold. A larger vacuum booster was added and the engine was mated to a model-specific four-speed gearbox. These additions could push the new 734 to 100mph, so it also featured upgraded brakes with large, finned drums. Contrary to popular belief, the “Speedster” name referred not to the body style, but to the sporting nature of the chassis. The 734 Speedster was actually available in five different custom-catalog body styles: A two-seat boat-tail runabout, four-seat runabout roadster with rumble seat, sport phaeton, Victoria coupe, or sedan. In spite of the exceptional performance and quality, Packard only sold approximately 113 examples of the 734. The marketing team was unsure of what to do with such a high-performance machine, given the majority of Packard clients preferred luxury and silent operation over outright speed. Today, the 734 is one of the most coveted of all Packards, with only a handful of genuine examples surviving, it is considered by many to be the Holy Grail of the America Classic Era.

Our featured example, chassis number 184006, has enjoyed a rich history and has recently been part of an important European collection and run regularly in tours and rallies. It is believed that it left the Detroit works with a Victoria body, however that body was removed at some point and replaced with this high-quality and very accurate recreation of the factory 2-seat runabout, but the original correct Speedster pieces are still present, the rear axle, the front axle, the finned manifold, the Speedster carburetor, etc.  The robust nature of Packard construction meant that chassis would occasionally outlive bodies, so rebodies are not uncommon. In the 1962, this car joined the renowned William F. Harrah collection in Reno, Nevada. At some point during the 1960’s or early 1970’s, the Boattail body was built by the renowned Richard Kingston of California Metal Shaping, using an original 734 Speedster Runabout as a guide.  Eventually, the Packard found its way via Hyman Ltd to the collection of its most recent keeper, a passionate and knowledgeable enthusiast who truly enjoys his automobiles as they were intended: On the road. He has reported that since purchasing the car from Hyman Ltd, he has amassed an astounding 30,000km and declared it capable of 130km/h and to be the most sporting car he has owned next to his XK120.

It presents in very good condition, a car meant for driving over show, yet still very attractive with good quality finishes and detailing. The two tone paint scheme is well suited to the sporting body, with black fenders and top surfaces accented by rich orange sides and subtle gold coachlines. The orange chassis adds an additional layer to the already attention-grabbing scheme. Paint quality is very good with fine finishing and gloss atop straight and well-aligned panels. The body wears appropriate accessories such as dual Pilot-Ray driving lamps, chrome Depress-Beam headlamps, dual C.M. Hall cowl lamps and dual side-mount spares topped with Packard-branded mirrors. The radiator shell features a polished stone guard and is topped with the “Adonis” (a.k.a. “Daphne at the Well”) mascot. The chrome plating shows in excellent condition, with no signs of pitting or blemishes. Six chrome wire wheels are fitted with blackwall tires for a sporty look, giving the car enormous presence. The body is very accurately constructed, down to the small trunk on the rear deck and the offset driver’s seat.

Being a sporting roadster, the cabin is simple and purposeful. Brown leather has taken on a pleasing patina from use, but remains in very good condition having been recently conditioned. The steering wheel also shows a nice patina, the sign of a car that has been used and enjoyed on the road for many years. The instruments are original issue Packard, with a lovely Jaeger 8-day clock facing the passenger. The cockpit is trimmed with a polished bright alloy rail, adding to the sporting flavor of the body.

The big straight eight engine (wearing serial number 184009) is well detailed with clean and tidy presentation. Having been regularly driven, it shows some typical patina from use which only adds to the appealing, inviting nature of this great sporting Packard. The engine retains its correct finned intake, finished properly in black ceramic. The cylinder block and head are painted correct Packard green and the crankcase remains in bare cast material as original. The presentation is pleasing and accurate, with no major modifications for road duty. A recent gearbox rebuild ensures reliable and easy motoring.

Having enjoyed regular maintenance and use, this rare and desirable Packard is ready to continue thrilling its next keeper. It is FIVA registered and eligible for numerous events worldwide. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a Packard Speedster, arguably one of the finest driver’s cars of the period.

https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/5895-1930-packard-734-speedster-runabout/

1930 Packard Light Eight Speedster Runabout is listed sold on ClassicDigest in St. Louis by Mark Hyman for $595000.

 

Car Facts

Car type : Car Make : Packard Model : Light Eight Model Version : Speedster Runabout Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1930 Sub type : Convertible Location : Missouri

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About Packard
Packard: A Comprehensive History
Early 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.