The year 1933 saw the Packard Motor Car Company change the name of its V-12-powered models from Twin Six to simply Twelve. This, and changes to the car’s specifications, such as improved cooling, clutch, and suspension, enabled these Tenth Series Packards to further refine what was widely considered to be the finest luxury automobile built in the US.

The known history of this 1933 Packard Twelve begins with its 1951 purchase by E.C. “Charlie” Last of Pasadena, California. Mr. Last, who worked as a mechanic for a Packard dealer in Pasadena after WWI, became known as one of the finest Packard specialists in the country. In the 1950s, he opened E.C. Last Automotive in Alhambra, California, and became an extremely talented engine builder, spending decades focused specifically on Packard Twelve service and repair.

Mr. Last restored this Packard with a number of unique updates, which are well documented in an article from the May 1958 issue of Motor Trend. Among the changes made were the addition of hydraulic brakes – thought to be from a 1937 or 1939 Packard. Mr. Last also ran the car on 16" wheels to lower the center of gravity and improve handling. There is no doubt that this creatively modified Packard was a true labor of love for Mr. Last, who was likely the ultimate West Coast Packard enthusiast. In 1973, the Packard was sold to another prominent California-based collector named Walter Shearer, as documented by the accompanying original Bill of Sale. Mr. Shearer owned a number of classics, including several significant Packards and a Duesenberg Model J Convertible Sedan. In Shearer’s possession, the Packard received extensive work, including a return to 17” wheels and a more stock configuration mechanically. The Twelve was sold to collector Terry Johnson of Englewood, Colorado, in 1998, and was treated to new paintwork and an engine rebuild, completed in 2012.

Acquired by the consignor in 2015, this Coupe Roadster was treated to over $90,000 of further mechanical and cosmetic restoration, including a full interior re-trim, a new top, extensive brightwork refinishing, tuning, and an exhaustive service of the brake system by respected longtime Packard specialist Robert Escalante and his Custom Auto Service of Santa Ana, California. Now presenting as a true concours contender, and with its fascinating provenance, this highly desirable example of a Packard Twelve, built during the zenith of the hallowed Detroit company, only awaits a new owner to enjoy its exceptional qualities and add to its rich history.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled by its engine number.