1937 Packard 120

Description

To survive the Great Depression, independent automaker Packard had to diversify, and that meant selling more cars to more people. Hence, the 120. With all the quality and precision of a senior car, the 120 offers Packard style and performance at a Buick price. And this very original 1937 Packard 120 touring sedan proves just how good these cars really were.

There's no mistaking the Packard look, and it was no mistake that the 120 looked a lot like its big brothers. The grille is a Packard trademark dating back to the early 'teens and got a sleeker look in 1937. It's worth noting that the lovely brown paint on this car is original, and not only does it have a wonderful soft gloss today, but its condition is indicative of the quality that went into each Packard that was built, even the affordable ones! The doors close with that solid 'thunk' that only ancient original cars seem to offer, and while there are some signs of wear, there are more signs of the love and attention this car received over its scant 58,844 miles. Of course, a lot of that preservation can be attributed to a long stint in a museum in Colorado, and it's easy to see how they'd find this an artifact worthy of preservation. Nice chrome, lovely bumpers, and that dominating grille make for a very attractive package.

The tan cloth interior is every bit as original and every bit as nice as the exterior. Sure, there are some signs of age, but after all, who looks their best when they're almost 80 years old? Bench seats were all that you got in 1937, but the front is intimate for two, with space for three in back and nobody's going to complain about legroom. The 120 was simpler than the big cars, but no less beautifully crafted, and it shows in details like the door panels and hardware, as well as the love instruments, which have a fantastic 1930s look. The big steering wheel and light effort make the 120 one of the more nimble cars of the period and synchromesh was standard equipment by then, so the 3-speed transmission shifts easily without any grinding. Both the heater/defroster unit and the AM radio were expensive options in 1937, and while the radio isn't working it's a fantastic addition to this car's pedigree. Even the trunk is quite original showing some use but no signs of neglect.

The 120 was a great car simply because it offered Packard 8-cylinder power in a smaller package. Enthusiasts in the know will argue that the 120 is perhaps the best-driving Packard of the era, simply due to its all-new independent front suspension and superior brakes, not to mention a great power-to-weight ratio. The 282 cubic inch straight-8 purrs along with nary a vibration to be felt, and while the engine bay isn't detailed for show, it definitely looks like someone took proper care of it from the beginning. There's a replacement exhaust system with a pleasant 8-cylinder burble and you'll be pleased to note that the starter, generator, and water pump have all been rebuilt so it's ready to tour. The electrical system is augmented with an 8-volt battery for stronger starts and newer 16-inch wide whitewall radials are fitted that only add to its superlative road manners.

These are simply wonderful cars and I know it's cliché, but the old ad still rings true: "Ask the man who owns one." I guarantee he'll tell you this is a great car, regardless of price. Call today!