1934 Packard Super 8

By the mid-1930s, Packard had firmly established itself at the pinnacle of American luxury motoring. Few marques so successfully balanced prestige, refinement, and engineering sophistication during the turbulent Depression years. The Detroit firms introduction of the Eight and Super Eight broadened its appeal without compromising its reputation for craftsmanship, while the Twelve solidified Packards place as a peer to the finest luxury marques in the world.

For 1934, the Super Eight represented one of the most accomplished offerings in Packards already illustrious catalog. Now in its Eleventh Series, the Super Eight was available in thirteen body styles, each reflecting a masterful combination of Raymond Dietrichs foundational design language and streamlined refinements contributed by Alexis de Sakhnoffsky, one of the most highly regarded stylists of the era. Long, flowing fenders, a distinctive vee-shaped radiator shell, and a choice of wheelbases lent Packards Super Eight models an unmatched presence on the road. Out of 1,920 Super Eights produced in 1934, only a handful were specified as the elegant 2/4-passenger Coupe Roadster, one of the most desirable configurations offered that year.

At the heart of the Super Eight was Packards 385-cubic-inch inline eight-cylinder engine, a masterpiece of refinement and reliability. Equipped with nine main bearings, it produced a silken 145 horsepoweran impressive figure for the period and a 40 percent increase over the models debut output in 1927. Power was delivered through a smooth-shifting three-speed manual transmission, while Packards advanced chassis incorporated vacuum-assisted brakes and Ride Control adjustable suspension. These engineering features gave the 1934 Super Eight both effortless power and remarkable comfort, qualities that continue to impress collectors and enthusiasts nearly a century later.

Among the body styles offered, none struck a finer balance of elegance and sportiness than the Coupe Roadster. With its long hood, rakish profile, and neatly folding convertible top, it conveyed both athleticism and sophistication. The top folded flush with the beltline, allowing the car to transform from snugly enclosed motoring to open-air elegance in moments, a dual character that made the model particularly appealing in its day and highly coveted now.

The example offered here is a striking 1104 Series Coupe Roadster, finished in an attractive two-tone cream and maroon livery with matching maroon leather upholstery. The older restoration has mellowed with time, lending the car a seasoned but well-kept character that underscores its history as a cherished motorcar. Handsome details abound, from well-polished chrome to cream pinstriping to chrome wire wheels shod with whitewall tires. The absence of side-mounted spares allows the long, louvered hood and graceful cowl lines to remain fully visible, while a single rear-mounted spare in a painted metal cover adds balance and distinction. Accessories include Trippe driving lamps, Solar headlights, and a Packard goddess of speed mascot, all of which enhance the cars period-correct presentation.

Inside, the cabin is trimmed in rich maroon leather with matching carpets and wooden accents. The seating surfaces display light creasing from use, the kind that suggests authenticity rather than wear, complementing the overall sense of quality and care. A rumble seat provides additional accommodation for two, while the finely finished dash houses an array of Packard instruments, including a Waltham eight-day clock.

Under the hood, the big inline eight presents honestly, with its imposing green cylinder block at center. The engine bay is neat and orderly, reflecting years of careful maintenance, with event badges affixed to the firewall attesting to the cars history of enthusiast use, including participation in numerous CCCA events. Additionally, the car also took part in the Pebble Beach Motoring Classic in 2010. The mechanical fitness of this 1104 Series Coupe Roadster makes it well-suited to further touring, with the straight-eight delivering quiet, confident performance in true Packard fashion.

Elegant, rare, and superbly engineered, this 1934 Packard Super Eight Coupe Roadster embodies the very best of Packards Eleventh Series. Its striking proportions, carefully preserved restoration, and celebrated body style make it a compelling choice for concours display or touring enjoyment.

Offers welcome and trades considered.