The 1930 Packard Standard Eight Model 726 Sedan, a testament to automotive elegance and engineering from a bygone era, presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of motoring history. This particular model, a Style 403 sedan, is reported to have resided with a single family for an impressive 80 years before its recent acquisition by the current seller. Having undergone a refurbishment approximately 18 years ago, this classic vehicle boasts a striking two-tone maroon exterior, complemented by a meticulously re-trimmed red velour interior.
Exterior Aesthetics and Accents
The body, resplendent in its maroon finish, is accented by black fenders, a dark maroon roof, and red shoulder-line stripes punctuated by gold pinstriping. The design features doors that latch at the B-pillars, a wire-mesh grille guard, and the iconic Goddess of Speed radiator mascot. Dual swiveling driving lights, a driver-side cowl spot lamp, and a fold-down rear luggage rack complete the external features. A rear-opening trunk adds practicality to this classic design. It’s worth noting that the seller has indicated the cowl spotlight is currently non-functional, and the windshield seal exhibits signs of aging. Replacement seals for both the windshield and cowl are included in the sale. The grille guard brackets are currently missing, however partially finished replacements are included. A pair of red driving-light covers are also part of the package.
Rolling in Style
The 19″ disc wheels, painted in body color and accented with gold pinstripes, bright trim rings, and Packard-branded hubs, add to the vehicle’s visual appeal. These wheels are fitted with Bedford wide-whitewall tires. Matching spare wheels, complete with side-view mirrors, are integrated into the front fenders. The braking system consists of mechanically actuated internally expanding drum brakes on all four wheels, with the emergency brake acting independently on the rear wheels.
Interior Comfort and Appointments
The interior has been re-trimmed in red velour, covering the front and rear bench seats, door panels, and side panels. Color-keyed carpeting, roller blinds in the rear passenger compartment, woodgrain door caps, dual gloveboxes, rear grab straps, and rear bud vases enhance the cabin’s comfort and style. A cowl vent handle was replaced in 2024. It should be noted that the window-shade tethers and screws for the window trim pieces are missing. The windshield wiper motor has been disconnected.
Instrumentation and Controls
The four-spoke steering wheel is positioned in front of a drum-style speedometer, an oval clock, and gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and amperage. The five-digit odometer currently displays 2k miles, with approximately 20 miles added by the current seller. Currently, the speedometer and fuel gauge are not operational.
Powertrain and Mechanicals
The heart of this Packard is a 319ci L-head inline-eight engine, featuring a nine-main-bearing crankshaft and a single updraft carburetor, originally rated at 90 horsepower. A Holley carburetor and an electric fuel pump have been installed. A rebuilt Owen Dyneto starter/generator was installed in 2024. A battery cover plate is included but not installed.
Transmission and Chassis
Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The suspension system comprises solid axles, semi-elliptical leaf springs, and hydraulic lever arm shock absorbers at all four corners. Steering is accomplished through a worm and sector mechanism.
Identification and Documentation
The cowl plate, a replacement, displays number 285208, which matches the VIN on the title. The original removed plate and other serial number tags are included in the sale.
Summary/Specs List:
- Model: 1930 Packard Standard Eight Model 726 Sedan
- Engine: 319ci L-head inline-eight
- Transmission: 4-speed manual
- Brakes: Mechanically actuated 4-wheel drum
- Wheels: 19″ disc
- Color: Maroon with black fenders and dark maroon roof
- Interior: Red velour
- Mileage: 2,000 (displayed)
- Title: Clean Minnesota title
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
