Exceptional original Packard. Known ownership history dating back to new. Very well documented and well-known Packard. Recent service work and new tires, so its ready to tour. An iconic year for Packard and a wonderfully preserved car ready to enjoy.
We dont know why this very well-known Packard has been affectionately called "Lulubelle" for decades, although we do know just about everything else about the car. Thanks to the efforts of multiple generations of dedicated owners (five, in total) this cars history is extremely well documented and it comes with several thick folders full of photos, letters, receipts, brochures, and other details that chronicle the Packards 90 years of life. It has clearly always been loved, given the outstanding condition of the car in general, from the glossy factory lacquer to the exceptional original interior. The paint and chrome are extremely nice for their age, showing the usual faint micro blisters and signs of polishing over the years, but it would be a crime to restore something with this much love evident in its finish. Of note, it has never been apart or repainted save for the right front fender after a run-in with a train that caused a small dent sometime back in the 1940s (yes, theres documentation of that incident). You can still faintly make out where the repairs were made, and it adds an interesting wrinkle to the cars lovely patina. The original white pinstripes are still faintly visible and theres a bright gloss to the finish that holds up quite well even today. Theres no question this is a handsome, imposing car but the feel of history that it presents is perhaps even more impressive.
Inside youll find the original tan Bedford cord interior thats simply beautiful. Like the exterior, there are a few minor signs of use and one panel of the front seat has been replaced, but again, it would be a major mistake to try to erase the imperfections that this car earned over nearly a century of living. Even the carpets appear to be original issue. The woodgrained window moldings and dash are extremely nice and the cream-faced gauges are some of the most beautiful of the era and they all work properly. Heavy-duty rubber floor mats protect those original carpets, but the rest appears to be vintage 1934. The big steering wheel makes even this rather large sedan easy to handle, and offers headlight and throttle controls on the hub. Theres also an accessory under-dash heater whose installation is outlined in the original dealer paperwork. The back seat looks virtually untouched and showcases the little luxury touches for which Packard was justifiably famous-check out the assist straps, the individual ash trays with lighters, and the hidden window shades. Lovely! Even the headliner is in remarkable condition with no stains or tears. This is why survivors are so special.
Packards famous 320 cubic inch straight-8 features nine main bearings for impeccable smoothness and durability and was rated at 120 horsepower in 1934. But its the creamy-smooth torque that makes this car so delightful to drive, as it just pulls from almost any speed in high gear without any drama. The engine has been recently serviced and detailed, so it runs great and looks correct from the massive oil bath air cleaner to the aluminum crankcase. At some point it was fitted with a Carl King high compression head for a bit more power, and it does run and drive like a Packard should. A few pumps of the throttle, hit the starter button the dash, and the big straight-8 purrs to life without any drama. It settles into a smooth idle and makes great 8-cylinder sounds from the exhaust. It has been properly maintained, so it stays cool, has plenty of oil pressure, and generally goes about its business without a fuss. The 3-speed manual transmission offers silky clutch action and smooth shifts thanks to synchromesh on 2nd and 3rd gears, and with 4.69 gears out back, its comfortable cruising at 50-55 MPH. This car has never been apart, so the undercarriage is a bit greasy, but there is exactly zero rot or rust and the robust frame looks strong enough to support a railroad bridge. Original spring gaiters ensure the smooth Packard ride and the brakes, while still mechanical in 1934, are remarkably powerful and confidence-inspiring. The gas tank has been recently cleaned and theres an auxiliary electric fuel pump for easy starts and assistance during hot weather. Finally, it sits on a fresh set of 7.00-17 Bedford blackwall tires that are the perfect touch on this subtle, imposing Packard. It is 100% ready to tour.
Documentation is EXTENSIVE. There are factory manuals, Service card, ownership notes, and other details that a new owner would have received from Packard. We also have 90 years worth of paperwork, receipts, photographs, letters, magazine articles, and other details that chronicle this Packards extraordinary life. And, of course, there are the usual Packard sales brochures and fact sheets that any enthusiast will enjoy reviewing when they cant be behind the wheel.
If you appreciate original cars, this Packard is worthy of your attention. Few restored cars drive as well as a properly maintained original, and we present this car as exhibit A. Theres a tangible sense of history in its flaws, which it wears with pride and still presents extremely well. The long, clean look of a car without sidemounts only helps with the presentation. Add in the awesome documentation package and many extras (trophies, spare parts, and more!) and this becomes an excellent choice for the sophisticated enthusiast who understands authenticity. Already an AACA HPOF award winner, this car is also eligible for preservation classes at some of the biggest concours should the new owner wish to submit it. It really is that good. Please take a closer look, then give us a call!
Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.
