1941 Packard One-Twenty Convertible Sedan

James Ward Packard was dissatisfied with his Winton motor carriage which prompted him to build his own superior automobile. With help from his brother and two employees from the Winton Company, Packard began work out of his electric engineering factory in Warren, Ohio. The first Packard emerged in November of 1899. It was an innovative and well-engineered vehicle that would continue the trend that would endure during the entire production lifespan of the Packard marque. The craftsmanship and quality attracted wealthy clients, including William D. Rockefeller, who purchased two Packards at the New York Automobile Show in November of 1900.

The Packard 'One-Twenty', also known as the 'Junior Packard', was introduced for the 1935 season. This was the company's first attempt to infiltrate the medium-priced market sector. Power was from a 282 cubic-inch engine offering 120 horsepower. It was mated to a synchromesh transmission and there were hydraulic brakes to help keep the vehicle in the driver's control. The 'One-Twenty' was dropped for 1938 but returned for 1939.

This particular example is a 1941 Packard 120. Modifications for the 1941 Packard 120 included the headlights now being positioned in the fenders and a one-piece rear window. The Station Wagon was the top-of-the-line body style, costing $400 dollars over the entry-level business Coupe. The Deluxe model, such as this example, would have cost around $1,541.

The Packard wagons received their coachwork from Hercules of Evansville, Indiana.

This example was optioned with a single-side spare, radio, and heater. The original owner is not known. In the 1990s the car received a body-off restoration by Bill Halliday. It is finished in Barbola Blue paint, the exact color it left the factory. After the restoration, the car was driven regularly. It was well maintained by its next owner, who kept the car in the Pacific Northwest for twenty years. It was shown at the Port Gardner Bay Classic and Kirkland Concours. The most recent caretaker has treated the car to additional restoration work and continued servicing and detailing. Additional west coast appearances include the Packards International National Meet Circle of Champions and the Benedict Castle Concours.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2018