Introduced in 1924 models, the Packard straight-eight engine marked the beginning of a new era for both its esteemed manufacturer and the American prestige automobile. Led by the legendary Col. Jesse Vincent, Packard engineers had created a powerful, durable and nearly vibration-free inline eight. Combining this superb engine with the styling verve and elegance that set the marque apart in the later 1920s, the Packard Eight fairly defined the attributes of the cars we know today as Classics.

For 1929, a new version of the Packard inline eight engine powered the automaker's Series 626 and 633 models. This 320cid, 90hp, "Standard Eight" engine was continued in corresponding 1930 Series 726 and 733 lines, with a new Detroit Lubricator carburetor replacing the former Packard design. Also new for '30 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 de