1939 Packard 1708 Twelve Convertible Sedan

1939 was a very significant year for Packards, as it was the last year for the Packard 12-cylinder automobiles. For 1939, fewer than 450 examples were built before production came to an end.

This example is a Model 1708, five-passenger convertible sedan. It has been given a comprehensive restoration and finished in the correct and Idium Grey metallic paint with a black Haartz cloth convertible top that features blind rear quarters for rear-seat occupants' privacy. The upholstery is finished in red leather with a contrasting burl walnut dashboard. There are five uniformly round gauges on the inset panel and matching wood door accents. There is a steering column shift, an unusual feature among the larger displacement Full Classics, a modern amenity that provided additional front compartment floor space. There is a roll-up divider window behind the driver's seat that is surrounded by walnut trim. Mounted to the rear of the front-seat cowling is a rear-seat leather-wrapped lap robe rope with matching grab-straps at either end. Also, there is a correct Packard accessory heather that provides warmth to both driver and passengers.

The car was fitted with many options such as dual-enclosed side-mounted spares with rearview mirror; period-correct accessory fog lamps including a single rear lamp; and an unusual external rear trunk rack which, when lowered, has its own elegantly shaped chrome bumper to protect the car and trunk alike.

In 2010, this Model 1708 was offered for sale at Gooding & Company's auction held in Amelia Island, Florida. The car was expected to sell for $175,000 - $225,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $170,500, inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2010