Vehicle No. 177711

Chassis No. 178112

Engine No. 178175C

Packard's Sixth Series models of 1929 were quite striking automobiles, built on a long 140½-in.-wheelbase chassis with a dignified upright grille and beautiful detailing on all of the available body styles. Among the most attractive was the Runabout, a two-passenger open design with rather close-coupled bodywork set off by a relatively low windshield and, most often, a three-tone color scheme with a prominent beltline molding and elaborate striping. This was a favorite automobile of the wealthy young, who most often would keep one of these extremely rakish open-air automobiles at their summer home. They drew much attention when new and continue to do so with their owners today.

The 640 Custom Eight Roadster offered here was, according to the new firewall vehicle number tag, originally sold on 7 June 1929, by the Parker-Harris Company of Memphis, Tennessee. It was restored some years ago in these striking colors, bright tawny orange and white with brown leather upholstery and tan canvas top, which together would look right at home drawing attention in Palm Beach or along the Newport shoreline.

In 1986 the car was shown in Antique Automobile Club of America competition, achieving its Senior First Prize for owner Harry T. Douglas of Connecticut – a man with his own connection to automotive history, having as vice-president of Lunn Laminates won the GM contract to build the first reinforced fiberglass bodies for the Chevrolet Corvette. Mr. Douglas was an avid enthusiast of the 1929 Packard, owning and exhibiting several examples over the years.

Today the restoration remains well-preserved throughout, with just 725 miles recorded, and the car has enjoyed excellent cosmetic care since its acquisition for the Gateway Automobile Museum from an owner in Pennsylvania in the summer of 2003. Minor age is seen only in the engine compartment, although a correct carburetor and properly restored ancillary components are fitted. The Runabout's jaunty appearance is created by the impressive livery, accentuated by the disc wheels; sidemounted spares, secured by Oak tire locks, with chrome metal covers and mirrors; and the cast aluminum toe boards and marbled horn button and gearshift knob of the interior. A Packard-badged trunk is supplied, with a canvas cover matching the top fabric, while at the front are dual spotlights, senior Trippe lights, a radiator stone guard, Spartan horn, and the classic Goddess of Speed mascot familiar to any Packard enthusiast.

This handsome Packard is a great head-turner, sure to attract much attention wherever it is shown, driven, and enjoyed.

Addendum & Administrative Notes

Please note this vehicle is titled by theftproof number on firewall, D54I86

Please note, title will be in transit

Collection Guarantee Disclosure

Please note that as part of a larger collection to be offered at live and online auctions, the Consignor of the Gateway Collection has been guaranteed a minimum price for certain cars, including this Lot, by Broad Arrow. Depending on the final Hammer Price obtained for those Lots, Broad Arrow may benefit financially.