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1940 Packard Custom Super-8 One-Eighty

Packard's Model 180 became the company's top-of-the-line model in 1939 with the demise of the Twelve. The 'junior' cars had helped the company weather the difficult economical conditions of the great depression and essentially saved the company from extinction, while the senior cars (including the 180) continued to set the standard for luxury, refinement, and exclusivity. Although the 160 and 180 had similar specifications, the 180 was reserved for Packard's top-of-the-line semi-customs and customs.

Both the 160 and the 180 were powered by an L-head, 356 cubic-inch eight-cylinder unit with nine main bearings, hydraulic valve lifters, aluminum pistons, and a cast-iron block. It produced 160 horsepower at 3200 RPM and was backed by a three-speed selective synchromesh transmission with column-mounted gearshift controls, and a single plate clutch. They had four-wheel hydraulic brakes, a coil spring independent front-wheel suspension, and a live rear axle with longitudinal semi-elliptic leaf springs. Both the One-Sixty and the Custom Super-8 One-Eight (1806, 1807, and 1808) shared the same wheelbase lengths of 127-, 138-, and 148 inches.

The differences between the 160 and 180 models were in the level of luxury, trim, refinement, and appointments. The 180 also carried the custom cars including the Rollson offerings which were updated versions of the bodies previously applied to the Twelve. The Darrin bodies were all new and were heavily promoted under the company's 'Glamour Car of the Year!' advertisement.

Howard 'Dutch' Darrin was born to modest means and blessed with a talent for design, balance, and style. Early in his career, he worked at the family company, Automatic Switch Company in New Jersey, designing electrical switching systems, including the first pushbutton elevator switch used by Otis Elevator. This experience would later prove helpful with the mechanical complexities of coachwork, including folding top mechanisms, relocating the steering column and wheel for lower cowl and hood lines, and his sliding door systems.

LeBaron sent 'Dutch' Darrin to Paris in 1922 as their representative where his charm, naturally ebullient personality, and talents blended well with the 'Jazz Age' climate. Within a short period of time, he had joined with LeBaron colleague Tom Hibbard to form Hibbard & Darrin. Together, they created designs and stylish bodies for many of Europe's most prominent and prestigious carmakers. In 1927, General Motors licensed a Hibbard & Darrin hood and fender treatment for Cadillac, paying $25,000 plus $1,000/month for the privilege. The partnership ended in 1931 when Hibbard accepted a position in General Motors' design department and returned to the United States. Darrin remained in France and formed a new company with a French banker named Fernandez - the company was called Fernandez and Darrin.

In 1937, Darrin returned to the United States and established Darrin of Paris on Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood. Although he was born in New Jersey, his designs were influenced by his time spent in Paris, and he was able to convince prospective customers he was a Frenchman. His reputation, vivant personality, and his coachwork designs brought the operation success. The designs were an innovative compromise between sporting and formal coachwork, coupled with complicated and unique mechanical components.

Actor Dick Powell commissioned a disappearing top Victoria on a Packard One Twenty chassis in 1937. It has a disappearing top, cut-down doors, and an open body with seating for four. This was soon followed by three 1938 Packard One Eighty Victorias. Earle C. Anthony brought the designs to Packard President Alvan Macauley's attention, earning the Packard Darrins a place in the Packard catalog in 1940, in both 2- and 4-door form. The design proved so popular that Packard agreed to market the cars, later setting up production in the former Auburn-Cord body facilities at Connersville, Indiana, and later at the Sayers & Scovill's facility near Cincinnati, Ohio. Packard's construction of the 'Hollywood Darrins' brought an improvement in quality and construction, and they continued to be offered in small, exclusive numbers through the end of pre-war Packard production in 1942.

The 'Hollywood Darrins' were often owned by such A-list musicians and actors as Clark Gable, Gene Krupa, and Preston Foster.

by Dan Vaughan

Convertible Sedan by Darrin
Chassis number: 1807-2015
Engine number: C500740

Packard introduced the Eight in 1924 and was the first Packard to employ four-wheel brakes. The side-valve straight eight engine developed 85 horsepower. The model line-up initially comprised ten models on two wheelbase lengths. A few years later, in 1927, Packard enlarged the engine. In 1929, a smaller Standard Eight was introduced while the larger engine continued to power the Custom and DeLuxe Eights. By 1933, they had been re-christened 'Super Eight', by which time all Packards had synchromesh transmission.

By the 1940s, the top-of-the-line Packards were known as the Super Eight 160 and the Custom Super Eight 180. Both were powered by a 160 horsepower engine which was powerful enough to carry the stately bodies. These two series were distinguished by a number of visual items such as hubcaps and hood louvers. The 160 was given a 'flying lady' mascot while the 180 carried the cormorant.

The 1940 Packard Custom Super-8 had three sub-series, the 1806, 1807, and 1808. The 1806 cars had a wheelbase size of 127 inches. The 1807 had a 138-inch platform and the 1808 cars rested on a large 148-inch wheelbase. All had the same tire sizes of 7.00 x 16. Included in the 1806 were the Club Sedan and the Darrin-bodied Convertible Victoria. The 1808 series included the touring limousine, sedan, and the Rollson All-Weather Town car. The remaining body styles were 1807.

The custom body era was drawing to a close by 1940 but Packard continued to offer a line of catalogued custom offerings. This convertible sedan by Darrin is one of the rarest with just 11 built, of which an amazing 9 survive. Designer Howard 'Dutch' Darris is probably best remembered for the flamboyant open cars he created for Hollywood celebrities.

This Packard Super Eight One-Eighty Darrin Convertible Sedan by Howard 'Dutch' Darrin is finished in pewter exterior finished complemented by a silver-grey top and interior. This Style 710 Packard carries serial number 2015, and it is the last in the series of Darrin four-door convertible sedans commissioned by Packard. It is believed to be one of nine documented examples remaining today.

When new, it was delivered to the Packard Saint Louis region for sale to the original owner. In 1980, it was acquired by Gene Tareshawty, the Darrin collector and authority from Youngstown, Ohio, who had acquired it from the widow of a Mr. Gordon Morris. In 1999, Mr. Tareshawty sold the car to Mr. Dale Fowler, under whom the car was restored and completed in 2005. The current owner acquired the car in 2006.

During the past two years, this Darrin received four perfect scores from judges, never scoring less than 99.5 points. In addition, several Best of Show designations have been garnered, and in 2006, it was invited to compete at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. More recently, in September 2011, it was shown at the Palos Verdes Concours, where 'Dutch' Darrin's designs were honored, and the special Packard Darrin class was a featured attraction. The car's most recent showing was at the CCCA Grand Classic at Rancho Santa Fe in late April, where it received a nearly-perfect score of 99.75 points.

In 2012, this car was offered for sale at RM Auction's sale in Monterey, California. The car was estimated to sell for $250,000-$350,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $341,000 inclusive of the buyer's premium.

Club Sedan
Chassis number: 1356-2077

The Super 8 180 was Packard's most senior automobile. The 180 Series offered standard with dual sidemounts and a trunk rack. 1940 was also Packard's first year for the column shift transmission and the last year for the independent free-standing headlamps. With a 356 cubic-inch inline eight and an overdrive transmission the Packard 180 was designed for boulevard touring and high-speed road travel.

One of the unique features of the Club Sedan is twin mirrored rear-mounted vanities, each with a perfume bottle. The owner has had this automobile in his family for 35 years. The restoration was completed in 2007.

Club Sedan
Chassis number: 1356-2077

A Senior Series Model with Special Features

The Packard Motor Car Company of Detroit was America's premier automobile manufacturer during the first four decades of the 20th century. However, the post-Depression decline in ultra-luxury cars forced a refocusing that resulted in the medium-priced 1935 One-Twenty and, two years later, a Six. Then, in 1939 the mighty Twelve's were discontinued. Thus, in 1940 the new Custom Super Eight One-Eighty, offered in three wheelbases, crowned the Packard line.

This particular Custom Super Eight was a low-production model characterized by its unique 'Club Sedan' cabin styling, with blind rear quarters. Most Packard 180s were 7-passenger cars built on a 148-inch wheelbase, but the 5-passenger Club Sedan had a 127-inch wheelbase, making it especially maneuverable. The luxurious interior included two rear seat vanities, each with a perfume bottle and comb holder. The dual side-mount spare tires and trunk rack were optional.

The 1940 model year was the first for the massive Super Eight 356 cubic-inch engine as well as a column shift for 3-speed transmission with overdrive.

This Packard has been in the exhibitor's family for 35 years. A full restoration was begun in 1999 and completed in January 2007. The most challenging aspects were the research and execution of the correct dashboard and two-tone broadcloth interior. Only about 20 1940 180 Club Sedans such as this remain.

Sport Sedan by Darrin

Of the catalogued custom body offerings from Packard in 1940 none is rarer than this Darrin Sport Sedan. One of just two produced, and thought to be the only survivor, it is a rare closed creation from designer Howard 'Dutch' Darrin, who was better known for the racy convertibles he created for Hollywood playboys. This rare car is a prototype that never went into production. Two similar cars, the model 730, were also produced without reaching production.

The chassis is similar to the Packard 180 with a 138-inch wheelbase, and a 356-cubic inch 160 horsepower engine with a three-speed transmission.

The body designer was the famous Howard 'Dutch' Darrin, one of the top automotive designers of the era who was responsible for a wide variety of beautiful cars. He also formed several coach-building firms during the classic era. Among the most famous of his designs are the 1937-1942 Packard Darrins and the 1951-1955 Kaisers.

When the current owner acquired this car he said it looked like it had been 'dredged up from the Titanic.' It was in extremely rough shape, partially disassembled, and with many parts missing which had to be fabricated from scratch. To compound the difficulty of restoration, since this car was a prototype never intended to be sold to a customer, it had been crudely fabricated in many areas. Restoration required correcting original construction irregularities and defects, particularly with respect to body fit and alignment. Restoration required five years and included an extensive amount of research.

The restoration was completed in 2007 and the car was shown at Pebble Beach that year, it has since won awards at multiple shows across the country.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin
Chassis number: 18062025

Packard entered the 1940s firmly ensconced at the top of Detroit's luxury car market. It also saw the looming demands of war-related production coming and rationalized its line with the elimination of the complex and expensive Twelve. It was replaced by the Custom Super Eight One-Eighty, carrying Packard's senior custom body line. Five were Packard Customs, two were bodied by Rollson, and the balance of three was created by Darrin. Luxuriously equipped and lavishly trimmed, a One-Eighty could set its buyer back by $6,800 or more depending on special requests and options.

The success of Packard's move was amply demonstrated when 1,900 One-Eighties were sold, more than four times 1939's production of Packard Twelves. Sales of the new One-Eighty were boosted by the reception and publicity which one of its new custom styles - the new Darrin Convertible Victoria - received, described by Packard as the 'Glamour Car of the Year,' a claim that was more accurate than advertising hype.

The Darrin

Howard 'Dutch' Darrin was born to money and comfort and blessed with an eye and a sense for style, design, and balance. Darrin was not, however, quite as well supplied with family money as his contemporary, Edsel Ford, and labored successfully among his social counterparts during a 40-year career in America and Europe designing some of the most important, successful, elegant, and creative coachwork of the Classic Era.

Early in his career, Darrin worked at the family company, Automatic Switch Company in New Jersey, designing complex electrical switching systems, including the first push-button elevator switch used by Otis Elevator, experience which later stood him in good stead coping with the mechanical complexities of coachwork including folding-top mechanisms, his famous sliding-door system and relocating the steering column and wheel for lower cowl and hood lines.

Darrin was the ideal representative for LeBaron to send to Paris to represent them in 1922 where his naturally ebullient personality blended smoothly with the 'Jazz Age.' But barely a year later he joined with LeBaron colleague Tom Hibbard to form Hibbard & Darrin. Over the next 15 years, they and Darrin's later partner, a banker named Fernandez, created groundbreaking designs, skillfully executed in their own shop, on the most luxurious chassis. So innovative was their work that in 1927 General Motors licensed a Hibbard & Darrin hood and fender treatment for Cadillac, paying the then-considerable sum of $25,000 plus $1,000 per month for the privilege.

Rebounding from a recession in the French economy in 1937, Darrin returned to the U.S. where he set up his own coachworks on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. The name he chose, 'Darrin of Paris,' was as flamboyant as his coachwork designs. His name, reputation - and no doubt his bon vivant personality - brought the operation success.

Darrin's favorite body style was the convertible victoria and he excelled at its execution, not only by creating an innovative compromise between sporting and formal coachwork, but also by his mastery of the complicated three-position top mechanism. In Darrin's idiom, a convertible victoria was an open body with seating for four in which the top, which usually completely disappeared when stowed, had an intermediate position that covered the rear seats but left the driver's compartment open in the manner of a formal town car. In 1937 Darrin of Paris executed a cut-down door disappearing-top Victoria on a Packard One-Twenty chassis for actor Dick Powell which was quickly followed by three 1938 Packard Super Eight victorias. Brought to Packard President Alvan MacAuley's attention by Packard's Los Angeles distributor, Earle C. Anthony, the Packard Darrins were cataloged by Packard in 1940 and are the most desirable of all Packards of this period.

Packard Darrins combines a stylish presence and a sporting attitude with the quality and performance of the Packard chassis and engine. They have panache, much like Darrin himself, the other cars of the period strove to emulate but rarely, if ever, achieved. They will, like a few timeless designs from automobile styling history, stop traffic and strike up conversations in any situation. They are just exceptions.

This Car

An example of the first year of Packard Darrin Convertible Victoria production, the example offered here comes from a collector who prides himself on the correct, reliable operation and handling of his cars. Its show-winning restoration was completed in the early 2000s and has garnered 100-point, first place awards every time it has been shown in AACA and CCCA competition. The frame and undercarriage is powder coated to the highest standards and the owner states it runs and drives like a brand-new car, or better.

It is finished in Miami Sand with a Light Saddle Tan leather interior and is fitted with factory overdrive. In its current configuration, there is one deviation from stock appearance. The owner-restored adapted the dashboard and instrument panel from a 12-cylinder 1938 Packard acquired from Bill Hirsch to the 1940 Darrin convertible victoria, a change that has not affected its concours scored and rectifies one of the peculiarities of Darrin's design, the fact that the stock dashboard orientation means the instruments are best read while lying on the front seat cushion.

by Gooding & Company

by Packard

Convertible Victoria by Darrin

'Glamour Car of the Year' was Packard's advertising line for the all-new 1940 One-Eighty convertible victoria by Darrin.

Three custom bodies built by Howard 'Dutch' Darrin, a veteran custom body designer of Packard, were available for the 1940 One-Eighty including this convertible victoria. Packard's One-Eighty by Darrin was the most widely-promoted model and gained attention from Hollywood icons including Clark Gable and Dick Powell. Today, many automobile aficionados view the Darrin One-Eighty as one of the finest models to carry the Packard name.

The 1940 One-Eighty Darrin convertible victoria sits on a 127-inch wheelbase chassis and is powered by the legendary 160 horsepower, 356 cubic-inch straight eight engine. The 1940 Packard was the industry's first production model to offer air conditioning. Only 1,900 One-Eighty Packards were built in 1940 - ten body styles were available, including the Darrin.

One of 11 convertible sedans built for Packard by Dutch Darrin in Connersville, IN, it was originally owned by Mrs. Welch of the Welch's Grape Juice family. It was sold and delivered by Mooers Motors of Richmond, VA, on May 9th of 1940. According to a factory letter dated April 10th of 1940, it was available for delivery on April 15th of 1940, and was equipped with econodrive (overdrive) and was black with London tan #2 hides. The radio, heater, fog lights and backup lights were installed at the dealership. Mrs. Welch lived in Washington, DC area and the car was there most of its life. It then went to a collector in Detroit and then to Packard, Youngstown, Ohio in 1989. The car has won numerous awards at various events.

Convertible Sedan by Darrin
Chassis number: C507382F

There were Packards, and then there were Darrin Packards. Howard 'Dutch' Darrin had been doing custom coachwork on Packards since the early 1920s, but his real 'star' came when he set up shop in Hollywood, customizing Packard coupes into dazzling Convertible Victorias with cut-down doors, a low hood line, and a padded dash. A total of 14 were built in Hollywood through 1939, two on the Super Eight chassis, and the rest on the One-Twenty chassis.

Darrin presented his masterpiece to Packard dealers, who then lobbied the company to offer these stunning cars as 'catalogue customs' which it did through 1942. Darrin built the cars in Connersville, Indiana in 1940, and Packard moved production to Hess & Eisenhardt, in Cincinnati, in 1941 and 1942. About 150 Darrins were built, in all, mostly as Convertible Victorias. A few Sedans and Convertible Sedans were built. This example is one of only three Convertible Sedans built in 1940.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin

'Glamour Car of the Year' was Packard's advertising line for the all-new 1940 One-Eighty convertible victoria by Darrin.

The 1940 One-Eighty Darrin Convertible Victoria sits on a 127-inch wheelbase chassis, powered by the legendary 160 horsepower, 356 cubic-inch straight eight engine. The 1940 Packard was the industry's first production model to offer air conditioning. Only 1,900 One-Eighty Packards were built in 1940. Ten body styles were available, including the Darrin. This is one of 44 Convertible Victorias built by Darrin in 1940 and has been owned by the present owner since 1978.

Convertible Sedan by Darrin
Chassis number: C507382F

Howard 'Dutch' Darrin designed elegant and extravagant open-body styles, such as this Convertible Sedan. It was constructed atop of a custom eight chassis with a wheelbase 11 inches longer than standard. There were only a dozen of these Packards built with only eight in existence. This car has been awarded a CCCA National First Award in 1995.

This car was delivered new by the Packard dealership in Evanston, Illinois. A Packard memo from June 20th of 1940 listed it as available for sale, wearing paint in Ronan's Cream and featuring a khaki Burbank cloth top piped in cream leather, Lackawanna full top grain leather upholstery, and special equipment, such as the center armrest for the front seat. It was available for immediate delivery to a buyer in the Chicago area, where it listed for $6,300.

In the early 1950s the car had made its way to California, where, after a minor accident, it was laid up on a peanut farm in the town of Arvin. Dr. Richard Steiner from Torrance found it there in 1967. He purchased the car and began a restoration. Howard Darrin, living in retirement in nearby Santa Monica, provided insight into the work.

The work was completed in 1994. On June 8th of 1995, it was shown t the California Grand Classic of the Classic Car Club of America, where it was judged at 98 points. It eventually earned its CCCA Senior badge, number 1898S, which the car still wears today.

Dr. Steiner sold the car on May 15th of 1996 to Otis Chandler. The car remained with the Chandler Collection until 2003. It was maintained in a well-known western collection and then in the stable of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kughn.

The car is finished in Packard Maroon. It has been shown at Meadow Brook, Eyes on Design, and the Amelia Island Concours. It was awarded its CCCA Premier honors with a First Place in the Michigan Grand Classic in 2010.

The car has numerous original accessories, including driving lights, bumper guards, a radio, a heater, a backup, and an Econo-Drive overdrive.

In 2010, this Convertible Sedan was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company Auction held in Scottsdale, Arizona. It was estimated to sell for $150,000 - $200,000. As bidding came to a close, the lot was sold for the sum of $253,000, inclusive of the buyer's premium.

Designer Howard 'Dutch' Darrin created this particular car by stretching the Custom Eight chassis wheelbase by 11 inches. Only a dozen of these cars were built and only eight still exist. It was sold new in Chicago for $6,300. It was discovered in a California peanut farm in 1967 and underwent a 27-year restoration.

by Dan Vaughan

Sport Sedan by Darrin
Chassis number: 1807-2002

Boston-based Mr. Ames of the Tru-Temper Hardware Company is believed to have been this vehicle's original owner. Unlike other production Darrin Sport Sedans which were intended to be owner-driven, this example was commissioned for use as a limousine. The rear compartment is separated from the front via a roll-up divider window and upholstered in broadcloth in a combination of dark and sage green. The floor is covered in plush carpeting. The driver's compartment is trimmed in green leather, including an unusual leather headliner. There are two radios one for each compartment. Additional options include dual-covered side-mount spares, a rear luggage rack, a backup light, running boards, and Packard-branded Guide Super Ray driving lights.

The current caretaker acquired this Darrin-bodied Packard in the early 1980s and at the time was in solid condition, requiring only cleaning and the preparation of its sheet metal for a new coat of Wilshire Green paint. The two-tone broadcloth rear upholstery and leather driver's compartment were reproduced to original specifications. The mechanical systems were restored to their original specifications, including the installation of a factory-crated 365 cubic-inch inline-eight replacement engine and the professional rebuild of the three-speed transmission with overdrive.

This Sport Sedan was shown extensively, earning accolades at the Meadowbrook Concours d'Elegance and the Glenmoor Gathering of Significant Automobiles. It is a Classic Car Club of America Full Classic and has earned a CCCA Senior Premier badge (number 2714), as well as an AACA National First, First Place at a Packard Automobile Classics national meet.

by Dan Vaughan

Club Sedan

With the demise of Packard's 12-cylinder engine at the end of 1939, the Super Eight line with its newly revamped straight-eight engine remained the only Senior series on the books for 1940. To keep up its inventory of styles, Packard management dictated that the Super Eight line be divided into two: the One-Sixty and the Custom Super Eight One-Eighty (the flagship in place of the discontinued V-12). Both featured the new 356 cubic-inch / 160 horsepower straight eight engine, making Packard the most powerful car in the world at the time. An industry first, Packards offered air conditioning for all of their models, all the way down to the Six, at a cost of roughly $400.

Just 1,900 Custom Super Eights were built for 1940 including 223 club sedans. This Packard was first purchased by James W. McGrath on May 29, 1940, from the Berry Motor Car Company in St. Louis, Missouri, and given to his wife Mary. The car maintains much of its originality and was purchased by the current owners in the spring of 2013.

Formal Sedan

While the 1939 Packard was the last of the evolution for the company's multi-cylinder cars, the 1940 offerings marked the company's continuing commitment to quality and excellence. While many of the custom-bodied Packards were the top of the line, Packard could not have survived the previous years of hardship without the stately Sedans and Limousines. They too were some of the most elegant cars of the period and their design exuded comfort, class, and taste. The driver was cradled in the silence of one of the most smooth, silent, engines and running gears ever manufactured, and the rear passengers were treated to a commanding view of the road set within the car's lavish passenger-directed appointments.

This nicely restored Super-Eight Formal Sedan is in excellent condition. It is finished in the color combination of black with a gray cloth interior. This Formal Sedan is bespoke with both elegance and purpose. The current owner reports spending in excess of $60,000 to ensure this car's overall cosmetic and mechanical excellence. Most recently the 356 cubic-inch engine was treated to a complete rebuild which included new piston bearings, filters, valve guides, and seats. Notably, the car has an operative overdrive transmission, which was also fully rebuilt.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin

The Classic Car Club of America recognizes fine and unusual motor cars built between 1925 and 1948 as Full Classics. They are distinguished by fine design, high engineering standards, and superior workmanship. The Classic era epitomizes the transition from the early cars characterized by the relatively boxy designs of the 1920s to the beautiful, flowing designs of the forties.

Packard began life as the Ohio Automobile Company in Warren, Ohio, and produced their first car in 1899. The name changed to Packard Motor Car Company in 1902 and they relocated to Detroit in 1903. By the beginning of the Classic Era, it was the premier luxury marque in America.

Packard entered the Classic era with a new straight eight replacing its early V12. This milestone engine used a unique crankshaft design and firing order that balanced the reciprocating forces and eliminated vibration. It was lighter than the V12, produced more power, and had better fuel economy. The inline configuration was compatible with the 'long hood' design themes that would be characteristic of the Classic era.

This example was originally sold by the famous Earle C. Anthony Packard dealership in Los Angeles, CA, to an owner in Colombia. The car was brought back to the United States in 1969 and has been treated to a full restoration, just completed in 2015. It is number 29 of 44 Darrin Packard 180 two-door models built, of which only 32 exist today.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin

The Packard Darrin was a blending of all the glory that was Packard in the Classic Era with all the chutzpa that was the stock in trade of Howard 'Dutch' Darrin - glamour with lots of pizzazz. Without Darrin's insistence, the car likely would never have been built. Reportedly, Darrin arranged to have the prototype car parked outside the Packard Proving Grounds at the time of the annual dealers' meeting, precisely where the dealers couldn't help but see it. Under pressure from its dealers, Packard included the Darrin as part of its catalog for 1940 with three models: sport sedan, convertible sedan, and convertible victoria.

It's estimated that roughly 100 were built through 1942 when production was halted due to World War II. The current owner acquired this car from the estate of an owner who acquired it in 1959. It was restored around the mid-1990s and has never been shown.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin

This 1940 Packard 180 Convertible Victoria by Darrin is number eleven of thirty produced and was purchased by Hollywood actor Chester Morris. Morris starred in the TV series 'Boston Blackie.' The current owners have enjoyed showing the Packard for 55 years now and counting.

All Packard Darrins after serial number 14 were built in the old Auburn plant in Connersville, Indiana. After 'Dutch' Darrin opened his custom body shop on Sunset Boulevard (The famed 'Sunset Strip') in Hollywood, he sold his glamorous cars to many of the film stars there. Among the owners of Packard Darrins were Clark Gable, Dick Powell, Tyrone Power, Ann Sheridan, and the 'big band' leader Gene Krupa. Darrin's production ended in 1942, as World War II began.

This car's extended hood reaches up to 7 feet long. The pontoon fenders, raked windshield, Darrin dip doors, and no running boards add to the glamorous styling by Howard Dutch Darrin. It features the first plastic dash and sporty leather bucket seats. It is powered by the Super Straight Eight – 356 cubic inch engine which produces 160 horsepower. The three-speed transmission has an overdrive.

Parisienne Victoria by Darrin
Chassis number: 18062007

This one-off Packard Seanca Parisienne offered half of a hardtop on what would normally have been a Convertible Victoria body style in the 1940 Packard Custom Series designed by Darrin. The result surely has to be one of the most elegant Packards of that era. Howard 'Dutch' Darrin was famous for unique styling adaptations such as this one, and he found that the long wheelbase Packards were most suited for his work.

This Packard 180 Darrin is one of two cars that was outfitted with a special roof treatment and given the distinctive name of Towne Coupes. The other example is lost and was apparently built for actor Donald Meek. This Towne Coupe example has an unknown original owner, even Darrin himself was unable to recall whom the car was built for. It may have been built for Hollywood actor Jack Oakie.

It is believed that the Southern California company, Coachcraft, constructed and fit the fixed roof to the two cars.

By the mid-1950s, the car was in the care of retired Army Colonel Thomas Hauss of Cincinnati, Ohio. It was given a restoration and then sold in 1962 when he returned to active duty. The car was purchased by John Stuck who would care for the car for the next 43 years. During that time, it was given several minor additions including hood-side vents and well-proportioned rear fender skirts.

In 2005, the car was donated to America's Packard Museum in Dayton, Ohio where it was displayed in the main showroom until 2010 when it was deaccessioned by the museum and sold to the current owner. The car was then treated to professional mechanical and interior cosmetic work to prepare the car for its return to the road. Work was performed on the engine, transmission, brakes, and exhaust. The leather, carpets, and dash components received expert attention.

The work was completed in time for it to be displayed at the 2010 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. It even participated in the 60-mile Tour d'Elegance.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale at the Pebble Beach Auction presented by Gooding & Company. The car was estimated to sell for $400,000 - $500,000. As bidding came to a close, the care failed to find a buyer willing to satisfy the reserve. It would leave the auction unsold.

Touring Sedan

This was the first year for the Packard 180 series, which replaced the V12 as the top-of-the-line model. Packard had offered 12-cylinder engines intermittently from 1916 through 1939.

The 180 shared many mechanical features with the 160 series including a 160 horsepower straight eight engine. Since it was the premier model, the 180 received premium upholstery and carpeting. The hood ornament on the 180 was a cormorant, while the 160 featured a flying lady.

1940 was the first year for the optional factory-installed air conditioning. This was the first time factory air was available from any manufacturer. It was developed by the Henney Motor Company, which also supplied Packard with bodies for ambulances and hearses.

This is one of 225 Packards of this series and body styles in 1940. It has been recognized by the AACA with an Historical Preservation of Original Features award.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin

The Packard 180 was introduced for the 1940 model year by the Packard Motor Car Company to replace the discontinued Packard Twin Six as their top-of-the-line luxury model. The car was derived from the Packard Super Eight One-Sixty with which it shared the complete running gear. It is powered by the 356 cubic-inch inline 8-cylinder engine that develops 160 horsepower. It was advertised as the most powerful eight-cylinder engine offered by any automobile manufacturer in 1940, producing ten more horsepower than the comparable Cadillac of the era.

Packards of all series (110, 120, 160, 180) shared similar styling in 1940, using the same bodies, but with hoods and front fenders of different lengths. The 160 and 180 models were built with identical bodies. The 180s, however, featured nicer interior detailing with the finest fabrics with leather and carpeting available. Packard used a special woolen ceiling in these cars which were sewn longitudinally.

In 1940, Packard offered air conditioning available as an option. It was developed by the Henney Motor Company with whom Packard had a long-lasting business connection. It was the first time that air condoning was available on a stock automobile.

This Packard is one of an estimated 12 Darrin-bodied 180s built, and one of 9 currently known to exist. It is an exceedingly rare example of the inimitable style of Howard 'Dutch' Darrin and the enduring quality of its 'Senior' Packard Super Eight One-Eighty chassis.

Convertible Sedan by Darrin

This Packard 180 Convertible Sedan was originally owned by Mrs. Welch of Welch's Grape Juice Company. Her initials were hand painted on the rear doors in a sterling monogram. It was delivered in the Washington D.C. area, where it remained for many years.

Convertible Sedan by Derham

The Packard 180 was first introduced in 1940 and with the demise of Packard's Twelve in 1939, the 180 now took pride in 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.

This particular Packard has a custom body made by Derham. There was only one made. The concours restoration for this car was completed in 2016. It comes complete with factory overdrive, Super Ray driving lights, radio, heater, rear seat radio, backup light, and a trunk rack.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin

The Packard Super Eight was the larger of the two 8-cylinder models produced in 1940, and its 356 cubic-inch, straight-8 engine benefitted from an overdrive gearbox that made the cars perfect for high-speed touring. The Custom Super Eight 180 can be identified by its distinctive hubcaps and hood louvers along the sides. The custom body era was drawing to a close by 1940, but Packard catalogs continued to offer several body styles, including a Club Sedan as well as this Darrin-bodied Convertible Victoria that, as with many of Howard 'Dutch' Darrin's designs, were often created for Hollywood celebrities. The first owner of this Convertible Victoria kept it in very original condition for nearly fifty years. The current owners bought it in 2014 and treated it to a restoration. In 2018, it made its restoration debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin
Engine number: CC501951B

This 1940 Packard Custom Super Eight One Eighty Convertible Victoria by Darrin was originally sold in Columbus, Ohio on May 9th of 1940. It was acquired in January of 1960 by John Kinkead of St. Paul, Minnesota who maintained the car for over a quarter-century before selling it to Gene Perkins of Indiana. Mr. Perkins treated the car to a comprehensive restoration that earned it Senior Premier status in CCCA judging, scoring 99.25 points at the Indiana Grand Classic in 1998. Mr. Perkins drove the car on three long-distance CARavans over the years.

Mr. Henry Petronis of Easton, Maryland acquired the car in 2014 from Mr. Perkins, who also toured with it. The current owner acquired it from the Petronis collection and has used it for two more CARavans, most recently in 2019.

The car is finished in black paint with a camel leather interior. It has new springs and shocks, as well as radial tires.

by Dan Vaughan

Convertible Victoria by Darrin
Chassis number: 1806-2001

Howard 'Dutch' Darrin produced a number of custom-bodied Packards for Hollywood clientele, eventually leading to his designs being included in Packard's 1940 catalogue. His designs featured rakish lines and cut-down doors with the signature 'Darrin dip.' Darrin's body styles included in the 1940 Packard catalogue included a Sports Sedan, Convertible Sedan, and Convertible Victoria. It is believed that fewer than 50 examples of the One-Eighty Convertible Victoria were produced in 1940.

After the 1940 model year, Packard streamlined production by eliminating Darrin-designed features, including 'suicide' doors and the addition of vestigial running boards.

This 1940 Packard Custom Super Eight One-Eighty Convertible Victoria by Darrin was the first completed. It is believed that Packard intended to exhibit the car at European motor shows, including the Paris Auto Salon. The outbreak of World War II hindered those plans and the Packard remained stateside. Instead, it performed promotional duty at American dealerships.

This Packard was later sold to MGM Studios and appeared in the 1953 film Blowing Wild, starring Gary Cooper, Anthony Quinn, and Barbara Stanwyck. The Packard was later sold to Orrin Markhus of California and remained in his care until the early 1960s when it was sold to Norm Knight. Tom Crook became the car's next owner, followed by the stewardship of John Klein from 1992 to 2006. Rob Hilaridies of Lindsay, California, was its next caretaker and drove the Darrin 2,166 miles from Klein's Indianapolis, Indiana, home to California along historic Route 66.

After entering the care of its current owner, the car was given an overhaul by Manns Restoration of Festus, Missouri.

by Dan Vaughan

Touring Sedan
Chassis number: 1351-2283

John Bohmer of Brooten, Minnesota, bought this 1940 Packard in 1959 with 49,000 miles on the odometer. During the 45 years that Bohmer owned the car, it was driven fewer than 1,500 miles. When the current owners obtained the car in the fall of 2005, it was making all sorts of mysterious noises, rattles and squeaks, none of which sounded serious, but all of which needed to be rectified before driving the car across the country. All fluids were changed, and the front end was rebuilt with new tie-rod ends, king pins, wheel bearings, and a center steering link. The shocks were rebuilt, the rear springs re-arched, the engine painted the correct color, the fuel pump, water pump and carburetor rebuilt, and the radiator was repaired. When new, the car cost just over $3,000 as equipped with white sidewall tires, radio, overdrive, Riviera upholstery, and mouton wool carpeting. The air conditioner would have added roughly $300. it also features front and rear heaters.

A total of 1,900 Packard 180s were assembled in 10 different body styles for 1940. The exact number of 180 seven-passenger touring sedans built is not known, but this car retains the highest known serial number for this body style (1351-2283), so it is known that at least 283 left the factory. It was delivered new in Kansas City to a customer of Reid-Ward Motor Company on July 17, 1940.

Sport Sedan by Darrin
Chassis number: 1807-2002

Building on the success of his customized Packard Convertible Victorias, Howard 'Dutch' Darrin began designing a Sport Sedan based on the 1940 Packard 180 four-door chassis. The transformation of the custom Darrin features to the completed four-door car was extraordinary, with elegant proportions and signature Darrin features including the raked, vee'd windshield and a more subtly adapted version of the 'Darrin Dip' along the tops of the doors.

The Sport Sedan rode on a 138-inch wheelbase and standard model 180 sales for 1940 were 1,900 out of a total production of 98,000 units. The Darrin version cost $6,100 which was over $2,000 more than other Packard models. There were reportedly two (possibly three) of the Darrin Sport Sedans built; the other example has not been found. Packard withdrew from the project, making this the rarest of all the Packard Darrins.

The original owner of this Sport Sedan (one of two such cars built) was a Mr. Ames of Boston, Massachusetts, the owner of TruTemper Hardware. It was given to their chauffeur and subsequently to a collector. The current owner is the fourth titleholder of the vehicle. The vehicle features a rear seat radio and voice control to the driver.

This Packard was restored in 1981 by Packard Youngstown.

The 1940 180 custom Darrin sport sedan is powered by Packard's 160 horsepower, 356 cubic-inch straight eight engine. Interestingly, the 1940 Packards were the industry's first production cars to offer air conditioning.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin

Most collectors, as well as the general public, consider the 1940 model year of the Packard Darrin to be the most popular and in greatest demand. Only 44 of them were produced with the '180' chassis. Dutch Darrin is responsible for the design. The Darrins were produced from 1938 to 1942. There were differences among the 5-year span, but an easy way to differentiate the Darrins from the Pcakards was the cut down of the Darrins doors, commonly known as the Darrin dip.

This particular car has a 180 chassis and retains its original body, chassis, engine and drivetrain. It was a very unmolested original car prior to its restoration. A frame-off restoration has been recently completed using an original 1940 color choice of Sea Cloud Gray.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin

This 1940 Packard 1806 wears a Custom Convertible Victoria body by Darrin. It is body number 43, making it a late 1940 model. The body was built in Connersville, Indiana and the current owners have owned it for approximately forty-three years. It is powered by a 365 cubic-inch straight-eight engine delivering 160 horsepower and paired with an overdrive transmission. It has back-up lights, driving lights, a radio, and a heater.

Convertible Victoria by Darrin
Chassis number: 1806-2001

Howard 'Dutch' Darrin began to build one-off convertible Packards for private owners in the late 1930s, in his Hollywood, California, shop. Darrin bodies were recognizable for the 'Darrin Dip,' a scoop in the front door, and rakish, low-slung bodies. Treasured by the Hollywood elite, Packard added to its marketing catalogs several Darrin designs, including the Convertible Victoria on this 1806 example, featuring Packard's 127-inch wheelbase and 356 cubic-inch Super Eight engine.

The car is the first Darrin built in 1940 - serial number 001. It was intended to be the Paris Show car, but those plans were canceled when Paris fell to the Germans. Instead, it was sent around the United States to various Dealerships to promote the new line. In the 1940s, after being sold to MGM Studios, the car appeared in the movie 'Blowing Wind' with Barbara Stanwyck, Anthony Quinn, and Gary Cooper, where it was driven quite hard. Ms. Stanwiyck was involved in a minor fender bender while driving the car, causing minor damage to a front fender.

The next owner was an Iceskater, and then Norm Knight, who performed a cosmetic restoration.

The previous owner restored the car to its original factory color of maroon with a tan interior and top. This car also maintains its original body, drivetrain, and engine.

Packard built 73,794 automobiles in 1940, but only 1,900 were the venerated 180 models, and fewer still were graced with the Darrin Convertible Victoria coachwork.

Convertible Sedan by Darrin
Chassis number: 18072010

This 1940 Packard Darrin 1807 Convertible Sedan was shipped to Earle C. Anthony Packard in Los Angeles and was the feature car at the Auto Club of Southern California spring show in downtown Los Angeles in April 1940. It spent most of its early existence on the West Coast and was eventually sold to automotive collectors Lee and Bob Belf in the 1970s. A Detroit-based Packard restorer named Henry Seitz was commissioned to perform a ground-up restoration in the late 1970s, and upon completion, this Darrin received a perfect 100 points at the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA #0927) Grand Classic in 1980.

After 27 years of ownership, the Belfs sold the Packard to Steve Chapman of Waxahachie, Texas. Mr. Chapman enlisted Hatfield Restorations in Canton, Texas, to strip the car to bare metal and rebuild and refinish all the components down to the most minute detail. The goal of the work was to restore originality and authenticity per factory documentation. The body was painted in its original color of Scheme X (black), and the interior was precisely fitted with Lackawanna London tan leather upholstery.

The Packard then earned another perfect 100 points at a major CCCA event, along with an award at the 2010 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, where it performed wonderfully on the Pebble Beach Tour d'Elegance presented by Rolex. It later won Best of Show at the CCCA Annual Meeting in Dallas, Texas, and was ultimately judged 100 points three times in a row.

When not at shows, the Packard resided in Mr. Chapman's climate-controlled collection and sparingly driven.

This 1940 Packard Darrin 1807 COnvertible Sedan is one of 11 examples constructed.

by Dan Vaughan

Convertible Sedan by Darrin
Chassis number: 1807-2012
Engine number: CC501053

This Packard Custom Super Eight One-Eighty Convertible Sedan by Darrin was originally delivered by the Earle C. Anthony showroom in San Francisco on July 19, 1940. Around the early 1950s, it was acquired by Robert D. Ford who retained it until 1965, selling it to Lorin Tryon, longtime co-chair of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Mr. Tryon sold the Packard in 1969 to J.B. Nethercutt, who traded it in 1978 to Tom Barrett. As the car was being carried away on a flatbed to its new home, it was spotted by Walt Shearer of Camarillo. Mr. Shearer began pursuit, and when he was able to stop the truck driver, he learned that the Packard had been traded for the Duesenberg Model SJ 'Twenty Grand.' More importantly, he gained the contact information of the Packard's new owner. With this information, Mr. Shearer was able to call Mr. Barrett and secure the purchase of the Darrin.

The car remained in the Shearer collection until 2000 when it was sold to Henry Petronis of Easton, Maryland. The current owner acquired the Packard in 2016. Shortly thereafter, it was given a concours-level restoration and finished in the year-correct Packard color of Sea Cloud Gray.

by Dan Vaughan

The Packard One Eighty was first introduced in 1940 and was Packard's new top-of-the-line vehicle. 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. Packard proudly claimed that it was the most powerful eight-cylinder engine on the market.

Though most of the other series, the 110, 120, 160, and 180, were similar in body styling in 1940, the 180 was segregated by its exquisite interior detailing, and lush carpets and fabrics. Options included a heater/defroster, air conditioning, radio, fender skirts, backup lights, and more.

Standard on the 180 Series were power windows, overdrive, and deluxe interior appointments. The 180 Series was powered by a 356-cubic inch straight-eight, with 160 hp, and rode on a 138-inch wheelbase.

by Dan Vaughan