1931 Packard Model 840

Said to be one of fewer than a dozen known to exist
Recipient of a body-off-the-frame restoration
Known history dating back to the 1950s
Shown at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours dElegance
Desirable body style fitted with various accessories
A Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) Full Classic ready for showing and touring

The 1931 Packard 840 Deluxe Eight represented the pinnacle of Packards renowned straight-eight lineup, blending refined engineering with elegant styling during the depths of the Great Depression. Powered by Packards smooth and powerful 384.8-cubic-inch inline eight, the 840 delivered effortless performance while maintaining the marques reputation for exceptional quality and reliability. Buyers could choose from an impressive range of factory body styles, including sedans, club sedans, touring cars, phaetons, sport phaetons, roadsters, coupes, and convertible coupes, with additional semi-custom bodies available from Packard and prestigious coachbuilders.

One of the more desirable body styles to grace the 1931 Packard chassis, this 840 Deluxe Eight Dual Cowl Sport Phaeton example is 1 of approximately 97 built and said to be one of fewer than a dozen to survive today. While early history of this Packard is unknown, known owners can be traced back to the 1950s when it was under the watchful eye of Packard collector Owen Fraking of upstate New York. Under his care for an extended period of time, Mr. Fraking retained this example, still said to be in original condition, until his passing in 2000. This example was then acquired by the McGowan brothers of Connecticut, who two years later sold it to Doug Bredbury. After retaining ownership for three years, he sold it back to one of the McGowan brothers, who then sold it to a Canadian collector in 2007. In the years to follow, this rare 840 Deluxe Eight was treated to a multi-year comprehensive restoration where the body was removed from the chassis. Similarly, the 384.8-cubic-inch eight-cylinder engine and four-speed manual transmission were disassembled and rebuilt to Packard specifications. The water pump, starter, generator, and fuel pump were also rebuilt at this time.

Dressed to impress, the body is draped in black, while the chassis and wheel wells are finished in a subtle but eye-catching green that match the wheels. Adorned with a proper black Haartz cloth top, other items include a rare rear-mounted spare with a split bumper, a radiator stone guard, dual windshield-mounted spotlights, and dual wind wings. Most interestingly, the rear cowl still carries its original label tags and reads, Tonneau Shield Company, Inc., of New York.

Following its wonderful restoration, this example graced the show field of the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours dElegance and partook in the events Tour dElegance. The current noted collector would welcome this rare example into his collection in 2018 where it has been carefully maintained. Today, this Packard remains fit for show display at either CCCA and AACA judged gatherings.

With its rarity, ownership history, Pebble Beach pedigree, and comprehensive restoration, this impressive 840 Deluxe Eight Dual Cowl Sport Phaeton is a wonderful representation of the Classic Era. Equally suited for a concours or similar event, it will also make a wonderful grand touring choice and offers its next caretaker the opportunity to enjoy one of Packards most exclusive and elegant automobiles.