From the Prestigious John B. McMullen Collection
Beautifully restored and well cared for
Tour proven and driven regularly
V12 Senior Packard
The beautiful Packard Tenth Series was introduced in 1933 at the 33rd National Automobile Show. The entire model range had been revamped with new styling and new names. The old Standard Eight, Deluxe Eight, and Twin-Six nomenclature was dropped for the simpler Eight, Super Eight and Twelve. Packard execs felt the new names were more upscale and helped differentiate Packard from entry-level eight cylinder cars from the likes of Ford. Names aside, the new Tenth Series featured the first hints of streamline styling trends that were creeping into automobile design at the time. Front fenders were skirted for a fuller look, and the radiator grille featured a Vee-design. Beneath the body was a new X-member frame, 17-inch wheels, and refinements to the adjustable power braking and ride control systems. The flagship of the fleet was the Twelve, available as the Model 1005 on a 142-inch wheelbase, or the Model 1006 on the 147-inch wheelbase. With the 1005, buyers had eleven body styles to choose from, while the 1006 was only offered in two formal limousine styles. Interestingly, Packard produced the 10th Series for only eight months until the 11th series replaced it. As a result, just 525 Twelves were built in 1933.
This 1933 Packard Twelve 1005 wears handsome Club Sedan coachwork from the factory catalog and is one of only a handful of known survivors.
Today, the restoration continues to present very well even though it was performed 2 decades prior. The Club Sedan coachwork is understated and handsome, and the bodywork appears straight, tidy, and exhibits sound fit and finish, a testament quality of the original restoration. The medium brown paintwork is an authentic representation of its original livery. It remains glossy and attractive, with some minor evidence of age and careful use in places. This car is well equipped with dampened bumpers (standard on the Twelve and optional on the Super Eight), dual side-mount spare wheels with painted covers, trunk rack, and dual chrome trumpet horns. The chrome is very good overall, with bumpers and headlamps in excellent condition. Even the original body tag is present and in place.
Packard intended the Club Sedan to be a luxury car for the owner-driver, so accommodations in the front and rear are generous and comfortable. The cabin is trimmed in lovely tan and grey fabric in both front and rear, with complementary carpet and headlining. The upholstery is remarkably well-preserved for what is a 20-year-old restoration, appearing clean, tidy and generally free of excessive wear. Restored woodwork surrounds the windows, while wood-grained metal panels dress instrument panel. Factory correct switches, controls, and Waltham instruments all present in fine condition.
Under the hood rests Packard’s sublime 445.5 cubic-inch L-head V12, producing 160 horsepower in standard form. It remains appropriately detailed in proper Packard green with period correct plumbing and hardware. This engine benefits from having high compression cylinder heads that provide a little extra performance. The finishes remain in very good order but would benefit from a good detailing. It is a delight to drive, with prodigious power and the smooth, easy-driving nature that is expected from a Packard of this era.
Rare and elegant, this Packard Twelve has been well-maintained and enjoyed by a dedicated enthusiast for the past 21 years. Its charming presentation and usable nature make it a prime candidate for AACA tours, CCCA CARavan touring or similar driving events and is sure to entertain its next caretaker for many more years.
