Lot 18
1942 Packard 120 Convertible Coupe
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

282 cid Straight 8 engine, 125 HP, three-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes; wheelbase: 127”


Before the United States had joined World War II, Packard had a vehicle for just about everyone imaginable. But once the war was in full swing, Packard converted their production lines to build airplane engines, this time V-1650s which powered the mighty P-51 Mustang fighters. Before they had made the switch, Packard introduced their 1942 models on August 25th, 1941, five months before automobile production came to a halt in Detroit. Among their new introductions was a handful of models which included the six cylinder, 672 built-to-order Packard’s, as well as the Junior and Senior models. In total 34,046 automobiles left the factory for the ’42 production year, with less than 20,000 of them being the Junior 120 models. Among the 120 series were the elegant convertible coupes like the one offered here. Most of the styling would come from the previous year’s model, expect for the front grille which was no longer flanked with vertical bars, but rather horizontal bars that formed an elegant upside down “T”. The public took a liking to the new design, but true sales numbers would go unknown as production was cut short.

Restored in 2004 and retaining its original steel body, comes this seldom seen 1942 Packard 120 Convertible Coupe. Presented in an eye catching red with a new tan convertible top and rechromed grilles, its ready to draw attention wherever its next owner desires to take it. It sits on steel wheels with full chrome wheel discs wrapped in wide whitewall tires and features dual mounted spares on each side with metal covers. The cabin comes ready to be enjoyed to its fullest with everything inside being restored as well. The bench seats are done in a comfortable two-tone tan and brown combination and the dash portrays a brilliant shine.

This Packard sports a 282 cid straight eight engine under its hood that is backed by a three-speed manual transmission. The straight eight is a proven engine that makes for great touring and regular use. 1942 is arguably the year of lowest production of American automobiles as the war effort demanded the resources and efforts of manufacturers throughout the Nation. There is a strong chance that you will be the only one on your block with such a fine open Packard from 1942.