Vehicle Description
Vehicle No. 177711
Chassis No. 178112
Engine No. 178175C
Packard's Sixth Series models of 1929 were quite striking
automobiles, built on a long 140�-in.-wheelbase chassis with a
dignified upright grille and beautiful detailing on all of the
available body styles. Among the most attractive was the Runabout,
a two-passenger open design with rather close-coupled bodywork set
off by a relatively low windshield and, most often, a three-tone
color scheme with a prominent beltline molding and elaborate
striping. This was a favorite automobile of the wealthy young, who
most often would keep one of these extremely rakish open-air
automobiles at their summer home. They drew much attention when new
and continue to do so with their owners today.
The 640 Custom Eight Roadster offered here was, according to the
new firewall vehicle number tag, originally sold on 7 June 1929, by
the Parker-Harris Company of Memphis, Tennessee. It was restored
some years ago in these striking colors, bright tawny orange and
white with brown leather upholstery and tan canvas top, which
together would look right at home drawing attention in Palm Beach
or along the Newport shoreline.
In 1986 the car was shown in Antique Automobile Club of America
competition, achieving its Senior First Prize for owner Harry T.
Douglas of Connecticut - a man with his own connection to
automotive history, having as vice-president of Lunn Laminates won
the GM contract to build the first reinforced fiberglass bodies for
the Chevrolet Corvette. Mr. Douglas was an avid enthusiast of the
1929 Packard, owning and exhibiting several examples over the
years.
Today the restoration remains well-preserved throughout, with just
725 miles recorded, and the car has enjoyed excellent cosmetic care
since its acquisition for the Gateway Automobile Museum from an
owner in Pennsylvania in the summer of 2003. Minor age is seen only
in the engine compartment, although a correct carburetor and
properly restored ancillary components are fitted. The Runabout's
jaunty appearance is created by the impressive livery, accentuated
by the disc wheels; sidemounted spares, secured by Oak tire locks,
with chrome metal covers and mirrors; and the cast aluminum toe
boards and marbled horn button and gearshift knob of the interior.
A Packard-badged trunk is supplied, with a canvas cover matching
the top fabric, while at the front are dual spotlights, senior
Trippe lights, a radiator stone guard, Spartan horn, and the
classic Goddess of Speed mascot familiar to any Packard
enthusiast.
This handsome Packard is a great head-turner, sure to attract much
attention wherever it is shown, driven, and enjoyed.
