As the October 1929 stock-market crash and resultant financial panic took hold during the early 1930s, Packard diversified its model lines for the company’s Ninth Series, with the Standard Eight supplemented by the New Light Eight and Twin Six. Selling slightly better than the Light Eight, the Standard Eight was Packard’s core offering in Model 901 and Model 902 forms, with the former a one-model series offering only a 5-passenger Sedan body style on a 129 ½-wheelbase chassis and the latter with a wide array of 12 body styles on a wheelbase measuring a commanding 136 ½ inches.

Despite the company’s appellation for its Model 901 and 902 lines, these fine motorcars were in actuality anything but “Standard.” A host of engineering updates were part of the Standard Eight lines, including an output increase to a robust 110 horsepower with a compression increase to 6.0:1 and both higher and lower ratios optionally available. Additional mechanical sophistication now included new chassis frames featuring a double-drop design with X-bracing, Ride Control was now standard, and a Harmonic Balancer-type front bumper was now optional. Early Ninth Series Standard Eights utilized a 4-speed manual transmission, subsequently replaced by a 3-speed with synchromesh and a vacuum-assisted clutch for greater operating ease.

Featuring exceedingly stylish and versatile Convertible Sedan coachwork, this 1932 Packard Standard Eight Model 902 carries one of the most lavish and expensive standard bodies offered on the Ninth Series. An archetypal 1930s luxury automobile with CCCA Full Classic^® status and exceptionally wide event eligibility, it continues to benefit nicely from a comprehensive older restoration and displays a moderate patina, earned through the passage of time and miles of enjoyment on the road. Attractively finished in dark taupe paintwork, the car is accented by black fenders and straw-colored wire-spoke wheels crowned by chrome rims and Packard-scripted hub caps, mounting period-appropriate white sidewall tires. Numerous desirable period accoutrements include twin chrome horns, Packard’s legendary “Goddess” radiator mascot and fluted chrome radiator shell, twin side mounted spares with chrome mirrors, a rear luggage rack and trunk, and chrome exhaust deflector.

Packard’s renowned and robust 110 horsepower L-head inline-eight powerplant is nicely finished in correct finishes and properly accessorized. The chassis frame features correct suspension components and a correct black paint finish. The comfortable and spacious interior compartment is trimmed in brown leather upholstery and matching carpeting. Rear occupants are treated to a wide, sofa-like rear seat with arm rests and ash trays to each side, plus a folding foot rest, robe bar, courtesy lights, and a storage compartment underneath the front seat. The driver is greeted by a floor shift and a well-appointed instrument panel housing a speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, Waltham clock, and gauges monitoring oil pressure, coolant temperature, amperage, and fuel level.

This charming Packard Eight is designated a Full Classic by the Classic Car Club of America and is therefore eligible for their popular CARavan tours and other club events. It is an honest, attractive, and well-kept example that’s perfect for driving enjoyment with the whole family.

Offers welcome and trades considered  

$79,500

Stock number 7629