1922 Packard Twin Six Model 335

When Packard introduced its Twin Six model in May of 1915, it became the first production twelve-cylinder automobile engine in the United States. It was the work of engineer Colonel Jesse Vincent who designed the engine with a 60-degree angle with two blocks of six cylinders, pistons made from lightweight aluminum, a 424 cubic-inch displacement, and an aluminum crankcase. It was smooth and powerful and used a full-pressure lubrication system which added to longevity. This engine powered the company's prestige models up to the early 1920s.

The Twin Six gained a 'Fuelizer' in 1920, a system that used a spark plug in the intake manifold to help vaporize the gasoline. This system was made available to earlier Twin Six models in kit form.

The Twin Six rested on a 136-inch wheelbase and rode on 33x5 tires. Mechanical brakes on the rear wheels provided the stopping power. Seven passenger body styles included the tourer, sedan, duplex sedan, and limousine. A five-passenger coupe, Duplex coupe, and phaeton were also available, along with a four-passenger runabout. Prices ranged from $3,850 to $5,400.

Due to the postwar recession and the cost of building the Twin Six, Packard discontinued the Twin Six in 1923. It was replaced by the Single Six which was more economical to produce and cheaper for the customer to purchase.

by Daniel Vaughan | May 2020