1933 Packard Super 8

Description

Don't worry, Packard enthusiasts, no real Packards were harmed in the construction of this pretty amazing 1933 coupe/roadster. Yes, that's what Packard called their two-door convertible with roll-up windows, and the 1933-34 examples are among the most desirable cars of all time. So why not build your own fiberglass replica?

This remarkable car comes from Second Chance Classics, pioneered by Dwight Bond and built by Gibbon Fiberglass-how's that for a pedigree? With molds pulled from actual 1933 Packards, it's as accurate as possible and without knocking your knuckles on the fenders, you'd never know. With real examples trading hands for three or four times the asking price on this one, you can see the appeal. Expertly finished to a very high standard, it certainly looks the part of a high-dollar Full Classic. From the arrow-shaped Packard beltline trim to the handsome rear fenders, there's no arguing that this isn't a spectacular-looking car. The dark red paint looks great on the sporty roadster body, accented by black fenders and belt moldings that give it a real 1930s look. Packards could be painted any color the customer wanted, and combinations like this were quite popular, adding to this car's authentic look. Other details include the cast aluminum step plates for the rumble seat, authentic Packard radiator shell, and a set of Guide lamps up front. Even from ten feet away, it'll take a sharp eye to tell this one from an original.

The interior skillfully maintains the illusion with a burgundy leather bench seat, beautiful woodgrained garnish moldings, and what appears to be an authentic Packard instrument panel with original gauges. The only real giveaway is the fact that there are only two pedals on the floor, not three, but the shifter is topped with a correct knob and a spoon-style accelerator pedal looks accurate. Cold A/C makes touring a pleasure and it's very skillfully hidden so that nobody will be the wiser at shows, and power windows make for easy open-air motoring. In back, the rumble seat is upholstered to match the front and the tan canvas top folds neatly to create a low stack for a very sleek look. From the hardware on the doors to the twin glove boxes, this replica is extraordinary in its accuracy.

The illusion is only spoiled when you look under the hood where you'll find a 350 cubic inch Chevy V8. Packard-logo valve covers are a nice touch, but it's clearly been built for comfort rather than all-out speed, which is entirely appropriate in this vintage-looking Packard. That's actually an Oldsmobile air cleaner, and the working parts are neatly packaged, allowing modern power steering and brakes, plus a muted exhaust system that sounds elegant but powerful. The frame is fabricated just for these replicas and is fairly faithful to the original, although it includes provisions for the TH350 3-speed automatic transmission and modern tube shocks on the leaf springs. 16-inch chrome wire wheels wear Packard center caps (heck, they may BE Packard wheels) and have been fitted with 7.50-16 BFGoodrich Silvertown wide whitewall bias-ply tires for a correct look.

Impressive doesn't even begin to cover how well-engineered this replica really is. If you like the look but long for modern performance, this is definitely the Packard for you. Call today!