1934 Packard 1108 Twelve Convertible Sedan

From 1932 to 1934, Packard's Ninth, Tenth, and Eleventh Series were distinguished by flowing fender lines and a new V-shaped vertical radiator shell. Packards were among the best-built automobiles at the time with proven engineering, quality, and driving dynamics. Offered in a wide assortment of the most popular body styles, the most prestigious were the so-called Dietrich Individual Customs, which graced the Super Eight and Twelve chassis from 1932 to 1934. These 'factory customs' were built largely to individual tastes, with modern designs that complemented the power produced by the engines. In 12-cylinder form, the modified L-head V12 engine displaced 445.5 cubic inches and developed 160 horsepower.

The Dietrich bodies were recognizable by their raked, V-shaped, dual-pane windscreens and soft curves of the coach-lines. They were tremendously expensive, affordable by only the most affluent in society, resulting in few examples ever created.

This particular Model 1108 Individual Custom wears a convertible sedan body built by Dietrich. It was resting in a Minneapolis garage and owned by a dentist residing in Alaska when John O. Bohmer discovered it and began inquiries into its acquisition. Following several failed attempts to reach the man by mail, Mr. Bohmer eventually learned that the owner agreed to have the car restored by a friend of Mr. Bohmer's, in exchange for a one-half ownership interest in the Packard. Following a road accident by the restorer with the car, the restorer was able to acquire the damaged Packard from the insurance company. He then sold it to Mr. Bohmer in August 1963.

While Mr. Bohmer searched for necessary parts, the Packard was put into storage for the next decade. A 1934 Packard Twelve Sport Sedan was eventually located via a classified newspaper ad and purchased from Chicago as a parts donor in 1973. Having sourced many of the necessary parts, the restoration commenced. The work was handled by Steve Gunder Restorations in Topeka, Kansas, and the interior upholstery was done by Nerstheimer Bros. Custom Trim of Topeka, using eight cowhides and Wilton wool carpet.

The restoration began in 1977 and was completed in 1982, costing over $80,000. When the restoration was complete, the car was shown sparingly, including at the 1999 Packard Centennial Celebration in Warren, Ohio, and the 2013 edition of the 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance held in Excelsior, Minnesota.

This Packard currently wears a distinctive green-on-green color combination with a beige canvas convertible top. The interior green carpeting, a jewel-like dash insert, a full complement of instruments, and an AM radio. The rear compartment contains a roll-up division window, and amenities include a pair of ashtrays with integral cigarette lighters. There are twin chrome horns, Packard's signature Cormorant radiator mascot, twin side-mounted spares within body-color steel cases, and a rear luggage rack.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2023