1931 PACKARD 833 CLUB SEDAN
This lot is offered without reserve.
1931 PACKARD 833 CLUB SEDAN

Details
1931 PACKARD 833 CLUB SEDAN

Chassis No. 320490
Engine No. 320490

Maroon with beige trim and brown fabric interior

Engine: L-head, straight eight, 319.2ci, 100bhp at 3,200rpm; Gearbox: four speed selective transmission; Suspension: front and rear, semi-elliptic leaf springs; Brakes: four wheel mechanical brakes. Left hand drive.

The Packard Motor Car Company saw record sales for the 1929 fiscal year, but never again would that be realized. On October 29, 1929 the New York Stock Exchange crashed, bringing the country to its knees in the start the Great Depression. Every industry was hit including the automotive. Packard was optimistic however in December the sales had dropped substantially. Nevertheless Packard owners were extremely loyal, standing behind the company's slogan 'Ask the Man Who Owns One' and so the company continued through the Depression with desirable designs.

The Packards of the early 1930s were technologically improved over their predecessors. Whether it was a Packard factory body or a coachbuilt design, the end result was strikingly beautiful. In general the cars were sleeker, grander and more individually tailored. Each separate component on the new Packards reflected an amazing amount of detail. The discerning buyer could even choose from a selection of hood ornaments including the Deluxe Goddess (doughnut chaser) or Adonis (sliding boy). The new Packards featured an adjustable driver's seat and sun visors, a map light and an adjustable steering wheel, an amenity still triumphed as a 'new luxury' accessory by car makers today.

The Packard 833 was part of the Eighth Series 1931 model year that was released on August 14, 1930 alongside the 826, the 840 and the 845. The cosmetic changes for the 1931 Eight Series were subtle, however mechanically there were important advancements. Disc wheels were standard with a wire or wood option, hubcaps were larger and the steering wheel went from four spokes to three. The horsepower was up to 100 from the 90bhp of the previous year as the entire 1931 Packard line benefited from the new cylinder block of the 734 Speedster from the previous year. A direct, mechanical Stewart Warner fuel pump replaced the vacuum tank leaving only the windshield wiper and the new Bijur chassis lubrication system to be vacuum operated.

All Standard Eight 833s were offered in eleven body styles, each on the 134½in wheelbase. The Packard offered is a five passenger Club Sedan with an original asking price of $2675 in August 1930.

Little of the early history of the Packard 833 Club Sedan on offer is known, however it was originally delivered to Paris. The car has been in the family of the present owner for over 35 years and in the early 1970s, the car became the first restoration project completed by well-known restoration business, Hill & Vaughn of Santa Monica, California.

This example is quite unique in that despite being on the shorter wheelbase it was fitted with the DeLuxe Eight features. Equipped with wire wheels, larger headlamps, a hood with doors instead of louvers and a leather trunk that was painted to match the trim on the vehicle, this Packard 833 stood in a class of its own. The interior upholstery was a special fabric designed for Hispano-Suiza. There were additional features such as a rear armrest with tassels and decorative fittings. After it had completed restoration it was no surprise the Packard participated in events such as the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance and drove away with various awards and acknowledgements from shows and car gatherings during the 1970s like the Silverado Concours d'Elegance.

Until recently the 833 Club Sedan had been in storage for approximately five years. When recently inspected, the Packard, despite being an older restoration, presents very well. Prior to the sale the car will be checked over and shall receive some cosmetic touch ups. No doubt with some additional attention this unique example of one of America's favorite early marques will be enjoyed and appreciated for years to come.

WITHOUT RESERVE
Special notice
This lot is offered without reserve.