1936 Packard Twelve 1708 Dual cowl Sport Phaeton

473ci Flathead V-12 Engine
Single Stromberg Dual Downdraft Carburetor
175bhp at 3,200rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Independent Coil Spring Front and Leaf Spring Rear Suspension
4-Wheel Vacuum Servo-Assisted Internal Expanding Drum Brakes

*Great Car for CCCA events
*Highly desirable Sport Phaeton coachwork
*Well presented older restoration
*Large and capably touring car

THE PACKARD TWELVE

Today, many regard the Packard Twelve as second only to Duesenberg as the finest American car of the classic era. Many would even argue that Packard surpassed Duesenberg in styling and some engineering details. Certainly, a single drive in a Packard Twelve is sufficient to convince even the most stubborn doubters of its greatness.

Packard beat its rivals to the big V-engine wars by decades as they introduced their first twelve-cylinder car in late 1915. The original Twin Six was an engineering tour de force and placed Packard on a level that was difficult for its rivals to emulate. This engine was eventually replaced by another Packard masterpiece: the Straight Eight in 1924. With Cadillac's introduction of the V16 in 1930, Packard knew they needed a big V to compete. For 1932 they introduced a new masterpiece: the Twelve, or as it was called for 1932 only, the Twin-Six. This engine was as beautiful to behold as it was to hear run: the motor had an architectural look many thought would be employed only by the likes of Bugatti and Voisin. The faceted edges of its complex valve covers would become an instantly recognizable icon of the classic era.

For all its exterior beauty, the real beauty was in its exquisite driving performance. The motor felt as if it had limitless power while at the same time being smooth and whisper quiet. Even today, drivers do not feel at a disadvantage on any modern road or highway with a Packard Twelve.

Packard was able to adapt and survive throughout the difficult years of the Great Depression. The Twin Six became the Twelve in 1933 and survived until 1939. In these years the Twelve would serve as the basis for some of the most spectacular and coveted custom coachwork of the classic era; the Packard Twelve bodies by Dietrich and LeBaron are now considered to be masterpieces of automotive styling.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This particular Packard V12 was built in the last year of Sport Phaeton production for the V12. Unfortunately, the early history of this particular car seems to be unknown at the time of cataloguing. The earliest known ownership of this car belongs to its time within the collection of Tom Barrett in the 1980s. It is believed that he sold the car by the end of the decade.

On a recent inspection, this particular Packard V12 was found to be in good overall condition. One of 718 V12 Packards, the car body number is 204 which is low within the series. This appears to be in the range of numbers that would be allotted to Sport Phaeton production. The car shows to be very correct, however, the chassis tag is a reproduction. As a result, Bonhams is not able to say for certain if the body fitted started life on this chassis. The detailing work and fitment seem to be correct, and from the visual inspection, the body appears to be an original piece of Packard coachwork.

Recently, this car was inspected by a Bonhams Specialist. It presents very well as an older restoration. The Packard Blue with cream pinstriping is a fitting color for a sport phaeton. The tan leather interior is also in good condition overall.

Anyone who has spent time in a V12 Packard will tell you that they are an absolute joy to drive. Supernaturally smooth and with plenty of torque, they are wonderful touring cars. This V12 is an especially enticing proposition as it is fitted with one of Packard's most desirable body styles. It would be a wonderful car to have on CCCA or AACA tours, or equally be a welcome addition to a car collection.