1936 Packard Model 1407 Twelve Speedster

Packard's introduction of their twelve-cylinder engine in 1915 is said to have been inspired by the Sunbeam V12 race car. The engine, dubbed the twin-six, was produced until 1923.

A completely new twelve-cylinder engine was introduced on January 9th of 1932 and brought with it many changes, such as a larger displacement size. It was designed to operate with a three-speed gearbox and was suited for large and luxurious automobiles that needed to outpace their competition, in keeping with Packard's tradition as a leader in the American car market.

The 1930s was a tough time for automobile producers due to the Great Depression and stiff competition. Cadillac and Marmon introduced sixteen-cylinder engines, and Lincoln had their powerful V12, to name a few.

The Great Depression also brought about the realization that a smaller, less-powerful Packard was needed to stimulate sales and increase cash flow. Packard began with a wheelbase that measured 120 inches, outfitted it with an eight-cylinder engine, and styling characteristics of a Packard. The wheelbase size was used for its name, the 120. The success of this endeavor gave Packard the financial stability to continue its pedigree of being one of the world's leading automobile manufacturers.

For 1936, little changed from the prior year. The Series Fourteen cars of 1936 were given a Delco-Remy ignition system and the trademark radiator was sloped an additional five degrees. Chrome strips were added to the headlights. A total of 682 examples of the V12s were produced.

This 1936 Packard V12 Speedster was created in the 1980s using 1936 Twelve running gear and a body style similar to the Auburn Boattail Speedsters. The black and turquoise livery matches the elegant and flamboyant design cues such as the teardrop style fenders and boattail configuration. It is an Art-Deco-themed car, in the style of an Auburn 852, with a slight identity crisis.

Before being brought to Christie's auction of 'Exceptional Motor Cars at the Monterey Jet Center', it was in the same collection for nearly two decades. It has an older restoration that has aged very gracefully. The V12 L-head engine displaces 473.3 cubic inches and produces 175 horsepower. There is a three-speed manual gearbox and vacuum-assisted hydraulic drums on all four corners. It was estimated to sell between $200,000 - $400,000 with the final sale price being $346,500 including the buyer's premium.