1940 Packard Super-8 One-Sixty Rollson Convertible

As the 1930s drew to a close, the Packard Motor Car Company found itself facing a dilemma. The newly introduced Junior Series cars grew in popularity, but the Senior Series cars suffered. The economic and political tone of the country dictated a new norm and unfortunately for Packard, their higher-priced cars began to suffer. By 1940 the manufacturer, largely under the direction of George Christopher, cleverly placed even more distance between the two lines. Prices for Packards ranged from the very modest (less than $700) to the very expensive (over $6,000) for the custom coachbuilt 180 series cars.

This car appears to have similar characteristics to a Darrin but actually is a one-off from the Rollson Co. of New York.

This is the only car produced on a 160 or 180 chassis with the body by Rollson. The 160 series was produced with thermostatically controlled grille shutters; they close when the engine is cold.

The owner purchased this car in the early 2000s from the previous owner of 25 years. The car has been sitting and was in need of total restoration. The current owner restored the car and returned it to its original appearance.

At first glance - even second glance - this Packard Super 8 160 1803 Convertible Victoria appears to be the creation of Howard 'Dutch' Darrin. Rather, it was the work of Rollson, and although the design has similarities to those of Darrin, there are several distinguishable differences. There is a smoother transition between the long, straight hood line and the doors, and the sophisticated sweep of the door-tops continues in an accent line well into the rear fenders. It is believed that this was the only Rollson-bodied car with this design.

This Packard was delivered to New York in April 1940, and, during the early 1950s, was discovered by Paul de Berardinis of Syracuse, New York. It was later owned by a succession of collectors and CCCA members who exhibited it at various Grand Classics and Meets in the 1960s. By 1995, it was owned by Don Sears of California, and in 1998, it became part of Harold 'Joe' Hayes's collection in Chicago. In 2001, Mr. Hayes commissioned Chicago Restorations Ltd. to perform a body-off mechanical and cosmetic restoration to concours-competitive standards. The body is currently finished in Inverness Green with a canvas top and the interior is done in cognac leather with green piping. There are green carpets, ivory-toned steering wheel, and dash trim.

This Packard earned a class award at the 2003 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. In 2012, it was purchased by the current caretaker.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2023