The 1936 Packard Super Eight represents the zenith of the Fourteenth Series, a period where the “Senior” Packards defined the standard for American luxury. This Series 1404 Model 958 coupe, one of only an estimated 45 produced for the model year, has recently emerged from an exhaustive eight-year refurbishment completed in 2025. With over $260,000 invested in its resurrection, the vehicle serves as a rolling testament to the era when Packard commanded the New York City social scene from its Uptown dealership.
Art Deco Lines and Golden Tan Metallic
The exterior of this Fourteenth Series icon showcases an increased radiator slope and revised fenders that distinguished it from its predecessors. Finished in Golden Tan Metallic, the bodywork involved a complete disassembly and the installation of replacement wood framework to ensure structural integrity. Iconic details abound, including the Goddess of Speed mascot, thermostatically controlled radiator shutters, and Trippe driving lamps. Practical luxury is highlighted by dual locking golf bag doors and a fold-down rear luggage rack, while body-color wire wheels with Firestone whitewall tires complete the stately profile.
Wool Finery and a Hidden Rumble Seat
Inside the cabin, the primary split bench seat is retrimmed in exquisite gray wool, a material choice that extends to the headliner, door panels, and carpets. The dashboard is a work of art, featuring painted woodgrain and a bright central panel with overhauled instrumentation, including a 120-mph speedometer and a quartz-movement clock. For additional passengers, a rear rumble seat is trimmed in pleated gray leather with matching padded armrests. Specialized features like the roll-down rear window and wood window trim reflect the uncompromising craftsmanship of the 1930s.
Straight-Eight Power and Ride Control Technology
Beneath the long hood resides a rebuilt 384ci L-head straight-eight engine, a mechanical marvel featuring nine main bearings. This powerplant produces 150 hp (152 PS) and is paired with a synchronized three-speed manual transmission, both of which were overhauled to factory specifications. The driving experience is remarkably advanced for the period, utilizing a vacuum-assisted mechanical drum brake system and adjustable ride-control suspension. This system allows the driver to modify the firmness of the hydraulic shock absorbers via a dashboard knob, ensuring a smooth passage regardless of road conditions.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 384ci L-head Straight-Eight |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Manual (Rebuilt) |
| Wheelbase | 139-inch (Series 1404) |
| Braking System | Vacuum-Assisted Mechanical Drums |
| Suspension | Solid Axles with Adjustable Ride Control |
| Lubrication | Bijur Automatic System |
| Total Refurbishment Cost | $260,000+ (Estimated Investment) |
An Elite Competitor in the Pre-War Market
The Packard Super Eight remains a primary rival to contemporary luxury brands like Cadillac and Pierce-Arrow. In today’s collector environment, the rarity of the Model 958 club coupe body style, with only 45 estimated units produced, places it in a higher tier of desirability. The investment in its restoration exceeds the market value of many lesser examples, positioning this Packard as a primary contender for regional concours events. Its blend of mechanical sophistication and investment-grade documentation makes it a unique selling proposition for serious pre-war enthusiasts.
A Connoisseur’s Legacy of Luxury
This 1936 Packard Super Eight is far more than a vintage vehicle; it is a preserved piece of American industrial history. From the mechanical hum of its straight-eight engine to the tactile quality of its wool and leather interior, every aspect of this Fourteenth Series coupe has been returned to its former glory. It represents a rare opportunity to own a high-investment, low-production classic that embodies the grace and prestige of Packard’s most celebrated era. For the collector who values provenance and precision, this Super Eight is a peerless addition to any world-class stable.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
