The 1939 Packard Twelve stands as the final, majestic chapter of the manufacturer’s legendary V12 production, representing the zenith of pre-war American automotive engineering. As one of only 446 examples built in its final year, this 17th-series flagship is a testament to the “Ask the Man Who Owns One” philosophy that defined the brand. Originally delivered in Chicago, this convertible coupe underwent a meticulous refurbishment in 2003, subsequently securing the Chairman’s Trophy at the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance. Now offered with a clean Texas title in early 2026, the car remains a premier candidate for serious collectors, retaining its CCCA Senior National First Prize status and a mechanical pedigree that successfully carries its crown into the modern era.
Dark Blue Silhouette and Thermostatically Controlled Shutters
The visual character of this 1939 Packard Twelve is defined by its sweeping ponton fenders and a 134-inch wheelbase that epitomizes the elegance of the style-1239 convertible coupe coachwork. Finished in Dark Blue with delicate red pinstriping, the silhouette is accented by a body-color radiator shell featuring alternating bright and thermostatically controlled shutters. Functional tech of the era includes a driver-side Sportlite spot lamp, dual side-mount spares recessed into the front fenders, and a fold-down rear luggage rack. The exterior package is completed by 16-inch painted wheels with bright beauty rings and BFGoodrich Silvertown wide-whitewall tires. Every detail, from the red-piped dark blue soft top to the cowl-mounted antenna, reinforces the car’s status as a top-tier Concours participant.
Red Leather Cabin and Specialized Golf-Club Storage
Inside, the cabin offers a vibrant Red leather environment that extends from the main bench seat to the door panels and the rear rumble seat. The interior section is a masterclass in period luxury, featuring wood door caps, color-matched carpeting, and a wood-finished dashboard housing a 120-mph speedometer and a factory clock. Specialized amenities include a lockable glovebox, a rotary-dial radio, and a dedicated golf-club storage area accessible via lockable doors in the quarter panels. For the driver, the three-spoke steering wheel provides a commanding view of the combination gauges monitoring oil pressure and coolant temperature. This environment reflects the 2003 refurbishment’s high standards, maintaining a level of tactile quality that justifies its Premier Senior National First Prize badges.
473ci V12 Narrative and Safe-T-Flex Suspension Feel
The heart of this 1939 Packard Twelve is a 473.3ci V12 engine featuring aluminum cylinder heads and a single downdraft carburetor, factory rated at 175 hp / 177 PS. This massive powerplant is mated to a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission, providing a smooth and torque-rich driving feel that was unparalleled in its day. Handling is managed by the Safe-T-Flex independent front suspension, which utilizes coil springs and lever-arm hydraulic shocks to provide a composed ride over varying surfaces. Stopping power is provided by vacuum-assisted hydraulic drum brakes at all four corners, ensuring the heavy chassis remains controllable. Following an oil and filter change in preparation for 2026, the engine remains a documented “B” series unit, delivering the silent, effortless power that defined the Packard Twelve’s reputation.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 473.3ci L-Head V12 |
| Carburetion | Single Downdraft Carburetor |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Manual (Column Shift) |
| Front Suspension | Safe-T-Flex Independent Coil-Sprung |
| Braking System | Servo-Assisted Hydraulic Drums |
| Output | 175 hp / 177 PS |
| Exterior Color | Dark Blue w/ Red Pinstriping |
Market Position and the Concours Unique Selling Point
The 1939 Packard Twelve occupies a dominant position in the pre-war collector market, frequently benchmarked against the Cadillac Series 90 V16 and the Lincoln Model K. However, the unique selling point for this chassis is its documented success on the Concours circuit, specifically its Chairman’s Trophy win and CCCA Premier status. In the current 2026 market, final-year Twelve models are exceptionally prized because they represent the ultimate refinement of the platform before Packard shifted production toward more volume-oriented models. This convertible coupe’s combination of the shorter, more athletic wheelbase and its vibrant Red-on-Blue color scheme makes it a primary acquisition candidate for enthusiasts who demand both mechanical excellence and investment-grade provenance.
Meadow Brook Stewardship and Texas Title Heritage
Ownership of this Packard is anchored by a 12-year tenure with the current seller, who acquired the car from a long-term estate. The vehicle’s history of stewardship includes the high-level 2003 refurbishment and subsequent preservation in top-tier collections, ensuring that its award-winning condition has been maintained rather than merely stored. Included in the sale is the 2004 Meadow Brook trophy, alongside first-prize badges from both Packard Automobile Classics and the CCCA. With only 800 miles added by the current owner, the car presents as a turn-key representative of the brand’s heritage. This 1707 convertible coupe represents a rare opportunity to steward a vehicle that has already been vetted and honored by the most prestigious judging bodies in North America.
A Final Look at a V12 Convertible Legend
The 1939 Packard Twelve is a physical manifestation of a time when the American luxury car reached its peak of mechanical ambition and aesthetic grace. By merging the 175-HP V12 engine with the unmistakable Dark Blue silhouette and the high-society charm of a Meadow Brook Chairman’s Trophy, Packard created a machine that remains a permanent icon of the pre-war landscape. This rare Twelve stands as a proud representative of the brand’s heritage as a leader in both silent engineering and boulevard presence. Whether it is destined for a return to the show field or a spirited drive on a coastal tour, this convertible coupe remains a masterclass in American automotive grace that successfully carries its crown into the 2026 era.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
