1930 Packard Eight 733 Victoria Coupe

Coachwork by Packard

319ci Inline 8-Cylinder Engine
90bhp
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Live Axle Suspension with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs
4-Wheel Mechanical Drum Brakes

*Rare and good-looking body style
*One of the better years for Packard
*Highly complete survivor

THE PACKARD EIGHT

Packard presented its cars in Series, not model years. It created the impression that Packard made changes to its prestigious automobiles only when Packard thought they were important enough to be warranted.

By the late Twenties, however, Packard was making annual changes. They were still presented as new Packard series but they came annually. It did preserve the illusion, however, by choosing its own introduction dates, usually in summer. That had the advantage of giving the new Packard series a period without competition from other marques' new models. In 1929 for the introduction of the Seventh Series it had one further advantage. The August 20 formal introduction gave Packard's Seventh Series models two months more time in the market before the stock market crashed in October and the new car market, even for luxury cars like Packards, began its Depression plunge.

Packard's Seventh Series comprised four models, the 726 Standard Eight offered only with factory sedan coachwork, the 733 Standard Eight on a longer 134 ½ inch wheelbase with a variety of catalog coachwork, the 740 Custom Eight had a 140 ½ inch wheelbase and the 745 Deluxe Eight topped the line with 145 ½ inches between the axle centerlines. The 740 and 745 had 385 cubic inch 106hp inline eight-cylinder engine.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This charming and honest Packard is nice survivor. It appears to be complete, intact, and sporting good-looking Victoria coupe coachwork. Purchased by Frank Spain at a Kruse Auction on the 1990s likely being attracted to its preserved condition and sound, straight bodywork. Well equipped, the Packard looks great with its optional wire wheels and twin side mount spares. Since acquisition it has remained in storage at the Museum awaiting service.

This is a worth-while machine to either tidy up as a survivor or lavish a more extensive restoration.
Packards are always sought after and offer an excellent network of support through several active clubs. Their straightforward mechanicals and excellent quality make them simple to recommission and work on. One of the finest American cars of its time, it will continue to turn heads wherever it is driven.