Packard One Twenty Business Coupe 1936, Estados Unidos

 

Packard One Twenty Business Coupe 1936, Estados Unidos
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Introduced for the Thirteenth Series cars in mid-1934, the One Twenty was Packard’s attempt at a mid-market model, appropriately named for its 120-inch wheelbase chassis. While retaining Packard’s reputable build quality and luxurious appointments, the One Twenty adopted several innovative mechanical features that were not yet available in the larger Senior models, including independent front suspension and hydraulic brakes.
When the Fourteenth Series cars began taking delivery in August 1935, the One Twenty was equipped with a newly enlarged version of the company’s classic straight-eight engine, now displacing 282 cubic inches and developing 120 horsepower. The model was available in eight different coachwork styles, including the sporty two-door business coupe, of which the featured lot is a particularly desirable example.
Available with a single sidemounted spare wheel, heater, clock, and radio with antenna, the One Twenty experienced overwhelming popularity during the 1936 model year, selling over 55,000 units and dwarfing the combined sales of all other Packard models combined. Despite its impressive sales volume, the One Twenty was rebranded as the Eight for the 1938 model year, capping a short production period of just three years.
Benefiting from an older restoration, this beautifully presented One Twenty Business Coupe is an exceptional example of the popular mid-market model. According to a reproduction Packard identification plate, vehicle number 998-3266 was delivered in mid-August 1935 to Oral H. Olmstead, a dealer based in Battle Creek, Michigan. Currently finished in a handsome color combination of maroon paint over an interior of taupe cloth upholstery, and mounted with color-matched wheels shod with whitewall tires, the coupe is desirably appointed with a three-spoke “banjo” steering wheel, fog lamps, a radio, heater, and clock. The Packard is accompanied by a spare wheel and tools, and the odometer currently displays 14,093 miles (though actual mileage is unknown).
Amply displaying the elegance for which Packard is legendarily known, this One Twenty abounds in luxurious period details, from the stately raked grille, Packard hood mascot, bullet-style headlamps, and louvered engine bay covers, to the Art Deco-themed dashboard and wood-trimmed window sills. With its sporty proportions and body style, this well-presented Business Coupe firmly demonstrates why the One Twenty became one of Packard’s most popular interwar models. It would make a superb acquisition for any marque enthusiast, appropriate for display at local concours d’elegance or driving enjoyment.