LOT 34
1930 Packard 745 Deluxe Eight Standard Eight 2/4 Passenger, Coachwork by Packard Chassis no. 182455 Engine no. 182597 Body no. 422-19
Sold for US$224,000 inc. premium
Lot 34
1930 Packard 745 Deluxe Eight
1930 Packard 745 Deluxe Eight
Standard Eight 2/4 Passenger, Coachwork by Packard
Chassis no. 182455
Engine no. 182597
Body no. 422-19
Standard Eight 2/4 Passenger, Coachwork by Packard
Chassis no. 182455
Engine no. 182597
Body no. 422-19
348.8ci L-Head Inline Eight-Cylinder Engine
Single Detroit Lubricator Updraft Carburetor
106bhp at 3,200rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Solid Beam Axle, Live Rear Axle, Semi-Elliptic Springs
4-Wheel Mechanical Drum Brakes, Vacuum Booster
*Packard's sporting roadster atop the grand 745 chassis
*Delivered new on December 25, 1929
*Formerly of the Mark Smith Collection
*Exceptionally well-preserved condition
*CCCA Full Classic®
THE PACKARD SEVENTH SERIES
For 1929, Packard separated its Sixth Series line with the addition of a new 320ci engine for the Standard Eight while the larger, more powerful 384.8ci eight was the reserve of the prestigious Custom Eight and Deluxe Eight. Introduced in August 1929, the 7th Series improvements were incremental, including a new Detroit Lubricator carburetor, and while output remained unchanged, the new carb improved flexibility. Also new was a dual-belt water pump, accommodated by a one-inch increase in wheelbase and hood length. A four-speed manual transmission, incorporating a special extra-low gear useful for deep mud or snow, was now standard, and a convenient one-shot Bijur chassis lubrication system kept the ride silent and refined. As usual, a plethora of bodies could be had, from sporty roadsters and convertibles to luxurious formal limousines. Lebaron, Deitrich, Rollston and Brewster offered semi-custom coachwork, while Packard's in-house body shop produced bodies of superlative quality and style worthy of their underpinnings.
THE CAR OFFERED
This 1930 Packard 745 Deluxe Eight Roadster is a rare example of Packard's sporty 2/4-passenger roadster body atop the flagship 145.5-inch wheelbase chassis, resulting in one of the most elegant sporting Packards of the era. Known affectionately as The Christmas Roadster this magnificent Packard was delivered on December 25, 1929 – undoubtedly granting someone a very merry Christmas, indeed!
This exceptionally well-preserved car has survived 94 years without a major restoration, instead, being maintained and freshened as required. Records date back to the 1950s, and continuous ownership is documented from the 1970s onward. Notably, it was previously in the Mark Smith collection until his passing. Mr. Smith was widely loved and respected in the collector car hobby, with a keen eye for rare and exceptional original cars.
By the numbers, the brass body tag and embossed stampings in the wood indicate style 422 – the 2/4-passenger Roadster for the 745 chassis. It has previously been reported that this body originated on a 733 chassis, however, the factory numbering system accounted for chassis type, and a 733 would have a "402" body number. The engine and chassis numbers are close in sequence, which, while not definitive, is an indication of a period-correct or original engine.
The black lacquer finish and brown mottled leather trim impart a delectably purposeful look, sitting on black wheels with polished spokes, black wall tires, and blacked-out radiator shutters. It also features dual side-mount spares, a trunk rack, search light, and wind wings. There is a wonderful overall patina, with a high degree of originality and exceptional character found throughout the car. Parts of the interior have been restored, including the seat, while kick panels and door cards appear original. In current ownership, it has undergone recommissioning and a service performed in late 2023. Since then, it was enjoyed on a brief tour, and is reported by the consignor to perform well.
Seventh Series Packards are renowned for their sublime refinement and road manners, and the magnificent Christmas Roadster is no exception. With well-documented provenance including with a respected collector, it will undoubtedly find place of pride in its next steward's stable. Achingly beautiful and brimming with character, this wonderful Packard is ready to shine on Classic Car Club of America CARavan® Tours or any number of prestigious pre-war driving events.
Saleroom notices
Please note the correct engine displacement is 384.8 cubic inches.
Additional information
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