The Packard 180 was first introduced in 1940 and with the demise of Packard's Twelve in 1939, the 180 now took pride of place as the company's top-line car for 1940. It served as a replacement for the company's V12 powered vehicle. The Packard 180 was given an eight-cylinder 356 cubic-inch engine that produced an astonishing 160 horsepower.

Styling changed only slightly during its production lifespan, lasting until 1942 when World War II brought an end to civilian automobile production. Famous coachbuilders, such as Darrin and LeBaron were given the opportunity to build their interpretation of the automobile on this accommodating chassis.

Despite the fact that its high-volume, medium-price 'Junior' cars saved the company during the 1930s, Packard's 'Senior' models, especially the 180, still set the standard, both within the company and for the American fine-car industry. However, in several ways, 1940 and 1941 marked the curtain call for Packard's 'Senior' models, and similarly, the glorious coach-built era was drawing to a close.