Lot 181

Hershey 2012

1930 Packard 745 Deluxe Eight Seven-Passenger Touring

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$175,000 - $225,000 USD | Not Sold

United States | Hershey, Pennsylvania

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Vehicle no.
420-63
Chassis No.
185871
Engine No.
187403

106 bhp, 384.8 cu. in. inline L-head eight-cylinder engine, four-speed transmission, solid front axle with leaf spring suspension and solid rear with hypoid gear drive, four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 145.5 in.

• Reported to be in tour-ready condition

• Desirable quality restoration by Hibernia Auto Restorations

The Packard 745 was appreciated by designers for the myriad of opportunities afforded by its balanced proportions, and it is similarly coveted by modern collectors for the same reasons. Its graceful fender line, raked windshield, and longer cowl have always spurred interest in these vehicles. For all practical purposes, the cowl, which was shortened by five inches the following year, makes this a much more comfortable car for taller, modern day enthusiasts.

According to the data plate, chassis 185871 was delivered on July 10, 1930 by the Charles Rice Co, Inc. In the early- to mid-1970s, Hibernia Auto Restorations executed a stunning body-off restoration in the gorgeous colors of Copper with Forest Green fenders. The natural-finish wooden artillery wheels are augmented by green pinstriping and shod with Firestone script whitewall tires. The matching green leather interior displays very little wear, as does the plush carpeting. It is further equipped with gorgeous and seldom seen fitted luggage affixed to the trunk rack, which even retains the original compartment keys threaded through the handles of each piece. Other accessories include Pilot Ray lights, a radiator stone guard, dual side-mounted spare tires with pedestal mirrors, dual spotlights, wind wings, and even accessory loop-style door handles normally seen on coaches.

In the ownership of Larry Kopp, this Packard was awarded a National First Prize Badge at the Fall Meet in Hershey, Pennsylvania, by the AACA, in 1977. The following year it was awarded the CCCA Badge Number 828 for its entrance in the Annual Meet in the Primary Division. Mr. Kopp sold the car in 1988 and, under a subsequent owner by the name of Kost from New Jersey, it scored an incredible 99 points in the Senior Division, in Pennsylvania, in 1991. The fact that the restoration could score so highly after being approximately 15 years old is impressive, and it speaks to the outstanding quality of restoration performed by Hibernia and more so to the wonderful condition of the car today, which truly belies its age. More recently, chassis 185871 was owned by St. Louis collector John Berra and was purchased from his estate approximately eight years ago.

The current owner reports that the car has recently been treated to a full clean-detailing and buffing and that it has been driven reliably on many CCCA tours, most recently as last year. To that end, it is equipped with hidden turn signals for safe touring and is also equipped with a modern stainless steel exhaust. It is reported to run quietly, smoothly, and be in tour-ready condition, even utilizing its original type vacuum fuel tank. Should the owner be a hearty tour enthusiast, this Packard is also accompanied by a full set of side curtains for protection during inclement weather.