1931 Packard 840 Roadster

The Last of Packard's True Roadsters

Just as the Great Depression was really starting become a major part of the Economy Packard introduced their new Eighth series in August of 1930 ranging from the 826, 833, 840 and 845 models. With the Super Eight engines now developing 120hp and Packard having developed a new "Quick Shift" 4 speed transmission, the new Packards were truly a world class automobile. 1931 would bring few changes to the line up but was the final year for the desirable Roadster model. Packard would sell only 12,922 cars in 1931, less than half the output from 1930. Of those 12,922 cars sold only 626 were the higher end 840 model and remarkably only 154 were the now very sought after Roadster model.

This absolutely stunning 1931 Packard 840 Roadster is a true example of the class and elegance which Packard products of the day were known for. Among the few true factory Roadsters per the 840 Roadster roster, this car has been treated to a complete nut and bolt frame off restoration in the exquisite livery of Packard Dark Blue with a red leather interior. The elegant and opulent appearance is a result of the perfect combination of features starting with the chrome wire wheels wrapped in wide white wall tires including dual side mounted spares, luggage rack and the twin Pilot Ray driving lamps mounted in front of the factory installed "cosmetic upgrade package". This package was offered by Packard on later 1931 models as incentive to not wait for the 1932 models, it consisted of many 1932 model components such as the V shaped chrome radiator, twin outside trumpet horns and harmonic dampening bumpers. Underneath the long stretching hood is the numbers matching 8 cylinder Super Eight engine, which has been tastefully detailed. The red leather interior is plush and inviting including the rumble seat area. All the chrome trim has been meticulously restored to a high level. Since the completion of the full restoration this car has taken many 1^st place awards at numerous events and seen minimal use. To this day the car presents itself incredibly well, it could very easily be prepared for Concours events or pop open the rumble seat and used for great open air motoring. For the critical collector, this is a stunning example pre-war design and ingenuity, the type of car which demands attention and showcases its presence no matter what company it is surrounded by. And for anyone curious about Packard ownership, as their slogan always said, "Ask the man who owns one".