1934 Packard 1107 Twelve Convertible Victoria

Entering the 1930s, Packard hoped to beat the stock market crash and subsequent Great Depression by manufacturing considerably more prestigious and expensive automobiles than it had prior to October 1929. As an independent automaker, Packard did not have the luxury of a larger corporate structure absorbing its losses, as Cadillac and Lincoln did. Packard did, however, have a better cash-flow position than the other independent luxury marques, allowing them to attempt this change in their business model.

Packard had another advantage that some other luxury automakers did not: a single production line. By maintaining a single line that allowed interchangeability between models, Packard was able to keep costs down. Packard did not change cars as often as other manufacturers did at the time. Rather than introducing new models annually, Packard began using its own 'Series' formula for differentiating its model changeovers in 1923. New model series did not debut on a strictly annual basis, with some series lasting nearly two years, and others lasting as short a time as seven months.

In 1934 Packard offered three chassis lengths for the 11th Series Packard Twelve, and this example is built on the mid-size chassis. Like all 11th Series Packards, the Model 1107 featured a smooth-running V12 engine that produced a very respectable 160 horsepower.

The Packard 12 Victorias typically sold in dark colors and had a 147-inch wheelbase. Even though the production Convertible Victoria is referred to as a Dietrich, this is the flat windshield Convertible Victoria. The 1934 Packard had redesigned the fenders that flowed into the front bumper. This car is also distinct in having a slightly more upright windscreen than other Convertible Victorias. Inside, Packard redesigned the dashboard to accommodate the optional radio. Some consider the 11th Series the last of the classic Packards since it was the last year to have slender windshield posts and chromed front headlights.

For a fee, you could have a special pleated interior and special paint. Also, for several hundred dollars you could have the Dietrich label affixed on both sides of the lower cowl of the car according to Ed Blends (Magnificent Packard 12) research. The fender design from 1933 to 1934 closed the fender into a more skirted look.

Fewer than ten Packard Model 1107 Convertible Victorias survive in the world.