1940 Packard Super 8 - $69,900 - Bedford Heights, OH - Due to the economic turmoil of the early 1930's, many auto manufacturers struggled financially. One of the most devastating areas was the luxury car market, as the pool of potential buyers dwindled, causing competition to rise quickly. This was true for Packard who saw their Junior Series of cars grow in popularity while their Senior Series suffered. In 1940 the Super Eight line remained the only Senior Series. To keep up its inventory of styles, Packard management dictated that the Super Eight line be divided into two: the One Sixty Series, which took the place of the previous Super Eight, and the new flagship Custom Super Eight, or Series One Eighty.
They were both outfitted with the new 160 horsepower engine which was adequate enough to keep these rolling luxury machines moving along at a comfortable pace on the road ways. In general appearance, the Seniors were similar. The grill was now long and narrow with the catwalk grills which were now in vogue. Tire covers for the fender mounted spares were one piece and completely enclosed. This was the last series to have the headlights as a separate unit mounted on top of the fenders. These headlights were the first to use the sealed beam light units. The Series were distinguished by a number of visual items such as the hubcaps and hood louvers. The One Sixty also featured the 'flying lady' mascot while the One Eighty carried the cormorant.
This Packard is a rust-free California car. The engine runs cool; the car will cruise at 65 mph all day long. Recent work on the car includes the following:
brand new top and top boot
new trunk carpet
rebuilt starter, vacuum advance, generator and distributor
new brakes and wheel cylinders
new trim rings and hubcaps
newer wiring harness
new battery
front end alignment
wheels balanced
complete tune up – all fluids changed
new firewall pad
all new dash plastic
hood ornament re-chromed
new weather stripping, except for the doors
sun visors recovered, after photos were taken
The chrome on this Packard is flawless. All gauges are clear and work well. All equipment works except the clock.