1922 Packard Twin Six Model 335 Runabout

This 1922 Packard Twin Six Roadster was offered for sale at the 2007 RM Auctions held at Meadow Brook. The car is powered by a 424.1 cubic-inch engine and is capable of producing 90 horsepower. It has two cast iron blocks of six cylinders making a total of 12, and thus the reasoning for its name, the Twin Six. There is a three-speed selective-sliding gearbox and mechanical rear wheel brakes. It has been treated to a full ground-up restoration and then shown at various concours events in the United States. It is finished in maroon with a black accent and black fenders. There are artillery wheels that are painted yellow with a red pinstripe. The interior features black leather upholstery with matching top boot and side curtains.

The Packard Twin Six production began in 1920 and was discontinued in 1923 with a total production figure of 8,750 being achieved during that time. The Twin-Six engines, designed by Jesse Vincent, were mounted at a 60-degree angle and featured an aluminum crankcase. It was the only engine offered by Packard between 1916 and 1920 and powered a variety of body styles.

The estimated price tag of over $100,000 is a clear indication of the vehicle's rarity and desirability. Bidders at the RM Auctions agreed with the estimated value and drove the sale price to just under the estimates, settling at $90,750.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2007

This car was sold for scrap during WWII, but kept by the scrap dealer and not destroyed. John Van Order purchased the car from the scrap dealer in 1944 and was put back into use. The current owner purchased the car in 1999 and treated it to a full restoration.

The car has an all-aluminum body except steel fenders and hood and is 100% original. This same twin-six, 12-cylinder engine with minor modifications was used in WWI airplanes.