Lot 22
1948 Packard Eight Station Sedan with Teardrop Trailer
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Trailer VIN: 1A9BF13174A367780

288 cid inline eight-cylinder engine, three-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and direct acting shock absorbers on all four wheels plus fifth absorber for the lateral stabilizer, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes; wheelbase: 120”


Coming out of World War II with a little bit of money for developing new models, Packard presented all new styling for 1948 year that shared mixed review. Moving into the jet-age with air-splitting designs, it saw independent fenders and running boards give way to smooth unbroken lines that to many critics, looked like an over-turned bathtub. Packard marketed three trim levels in its 22nd Series with the Custom Eight, Super Eight and the Standard Eight. Among the most expensive model in the Packard’s lineup was the Standard Eight’s Station Sedan. While most car companies would term this model as a “station wagon”, the term “wagon” just wouldn’t fit the Packard image. These handsome vehicles featured all-steel body construction with wood serving more for decoration than structural support. This new model was introduced as having the “beauty and comfort of a sedan, all the utility of a station wagon, along with strength, streamlining and proud distinction.” Packard touted the use of steel for the body construction and the selection of fine-grained hardwoods for the side and rear panels with “new types of hardware and other fittings to carry out the massive distinction of its functional styling.” The cost of this new model was hefty when compared to the advertised delivered price of $2,275 for the Eight’s four-door Touring sedan, set at $3,425 for the Station Sedan a 50% premium. Unfortunately, Packard did not release individual body style production figures, one can imagine that not many of these wood-trimmed models were built. For the customers that did step up to the Station Sedan, they were not to be disappointed. Packard’s reputation still held favor for many customers and these cars had plenty of torque to take a full load of passengers and their luggage to highway speeds, rated at 226 lbs/ft. They were agile too with a turning radius of just 22 feet. Mileage was not as important in 1948 as it is today, but one could expect at least 300 miles between fill-ups from the 17-gallon fuel tank. Even the entry-level Packards were well-appointed including the Station Sedan with standard features like turn signals and dual sun visors, that went along with Packard’s proven engineering greatness. With its unique styling and Packard’s trademark grille design, this was the type of vehicle that would turn heads when your arrived at the country club or, should you want to go for an extended trip, plenty of room aboard for passengers and their luggage.

This attractive Station Sedan has been restored in its original deep dark “Packard Blue” with Saddle Brown leather seating. It is appointed with an original radio, nearly $112 when new, as well as heater-defroster and an electric clock. The odometer currently shows just under 11,150 miles, but the true miles are unknown. The seats are roomy and comfortable with the dashboard resplendent in its chrome trim, even the steering wheel looks to be brand new. The paint shows some micro scratches but the wood, most all of which appears to be original, has been recently refinished and complements this vehicle’s overall styling. A proper trailer hitch had been added to the rear along with an electrical plug lights and, included in this lot, is a 2004 Hunter Outdoor Products camping trailer. Marketed as the “Fat Shadow”, these trailers present the classic “teardrop” shape and provide plenty of room for two plus adequate equipment and food storage as well as cooking gear for those who want to get away from civilization for a few days. In combination, both the 1948 Packard Station Sedan and accompanying trailer make a dynamic duo for modern road trips with a vintage flair.