1930 Packard Series 726 Standard Eight

As Packard began the 1930s, its lineup exclusively relied on eight-cylinder power, with only minor updates over the previous year. The model lineup included the Standard Eight, Custom Eight, and Deluxe Eight. The Standard Eight used a 320 CID inline-8, while the other two received the 385 CID inline-8. Additionally, Packard offered the sporty Speedster (734) using the short wheelbase of the Standard Eight (733) and the larger (tuned) engine of the Custom/Deluxe Eight. Introduced in 1929, seventy examples were built in its debut year, and 113 in 1930.

Updates
Standard Eight
- 4-speed transmission (previously a 3-speed)
- Detroit Lubricator updraft carburetor replaced the Packard updraft
- 1-inch larger wheelbase due to redesigned water pump (now with dual fan belts)
- new optional accessory hood with three louver doors

Production
Approximately 26,070 examples of the Model 626 were produced in 1929, falling to 15,731 (Model 726) in 1930.

Engine
The L-head straight eight, 319.2 cubic-inch engine had a 3.19-inch bore and a 5-inch stroke, nine main bearings, solid valve lifters, a Detroit Lubricator updraft carburetor, and developed 90 horsepower at 3,200 RPM. It was paired with a four-speed Selective transmission with a single plate clutch, shaft drive, and hypoid differential. The standard axle ratio was 4.38:1, with 4.69:1 and 5.08:1 being optional.

Options
Along with the optional gear ratios, the Standard Eight could be purchased with dual side-mount tires, a trunk rack, and the aforementioned three louver-door hood. Fender parking lights added $20 to the base price.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2023