Estimate: $60,000-$90,000 US

Sold: $66,000

Series 14, Model 1404. 150bhp, 384 cu. in. inline eight-cylinder engine, three-speed synchromesh manual transmission, front beam axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel vacuum-assisted mechanical brakes. Wheelbase: 139"

Many consider the 1935 to 1939 Senior models to be among the finest automobiles produced by the Packard Motor Car Company. Certainly, it is true that they represented the end of an era; never again would Packard offer the exceptional quality of a hand-built car after this period. Although the Super Eight was far from being the most expensive Packard model, this handsome coupe, starting from $2,880, still cost more than five times the price of a contemporary Ford. Less than one percent of the cars sold in America were luxury vehicles of the caliber and quality displayed by the Senior Packard model range.

The Fourteenth Series was introduced in 1936, and while largely carried over from the 1935 Twelfth Series, it included several differences that are important to today’s collectors. The most significant of these was a new radiator, which was raked back an additional five degrees, giving the car a much sleeker look than its predecessor. In addition, the Fourteenth Series also marked the final use of the very attractive 17-inch wire wheels, as well as Bijur chassis lubrication, ride control, solid front axles, mechanical brakes and the proven 384 cubic inch eight-cylinder engine.

This very attractive 1936 Packard Super Eight 2/4-Passenger Coupe sports one of the most attractive body styles available. Its flowing lines and overall proportions are perfectly complemented by an excellent two-tone exterior finish with a cream-colored body, while the fenders, beltline rib and rear window surround are finished in taupe. Excellent brightwork and red pinstriping combine with many period accessories including dual driving lights, dual side-mounted spare tires, a covered trunk, rumble seat, dual golf bag doors, wire wheels and wide whitewall tires. The interior is reported to be in very good condition, trimmed in tan cloth upholstery with dark brown carpeting.

While this Super Eight Coupe certainly has an outstanding presence, as one of 1,330 Super Eights produced for 1936, it is also quite rare. It is a very capable performer, having participated in the 1991 Great American Race. Preparation for the event included an engine rebuild, with attention to the suspension, braking, electrical, vacuum, fuel and exhaust systems. The car was featured in the 1992 Great American Race calendar, and as a CCCA Full Classic, this dashing 1936 Packard 2/4-Passenger Coupe is not only a very strong representative of Packard’s great Fourteenth Series, but also an ideal candidate for future events, tours and shows.