1929 Packards 645 Custom 8 Dual Cowl Phaeton

The Packard Motor Car Company introduced the Single Eight, the successor to the Twin Six V-12, on June 14th of 1923. Its engine displaced 357.8 cubic-inches, which was 15 percent fewer than the company’s big engine, but produced 95 percent of its horsepower.

To this point in history, most of the eight-cylinder engines were essentially two four-cylinder engines mated end-to-end. This design often came with a ‘secondary imbalance’ caused by two of the pistons always moving together. The result was a rocking motion at idle and roughness at high RPM. Packard’s eight-cylinder engine, however, used a two-plane crankshaft which made the Single Eight smooth and silent.

Packard introduced their Sixth Series on August 1st of 1928. All Packards were now powered by eight-cylinder engines as the six-cylinder models were discontinued. The top-of-the-line model was the 645 Deluxe Eight which had a 145.5-inch wheelbase and was powered by a 384.8 cubic-inch engine offering 105 horsepower.

Here’s the view over the hood while in motion. you can see the originality of the paint, as well as the fact that the paint shows age or patina. Can’t be re-created!

This 1929 Packards 645 is finished in red with matching leather interior. The top is tan canvas. There is a Pilot Ray steering driving lights and dual windshield-mounted spotlights, along with dual side-mounted spares and six Firestone High Speed wide whitewall tires. The tip-up Tonneau Cowl has its own windshield for the rear seat passengers. On the radiator is the Packard ‘Adonis’ radiator cap designed by Edward McCarten.

Fitted with senior trip lights, grill guard, iconic “sliding boy” hood ornament, and Packard rear trunk with fitted luggage, this 645 Dual Cowl Phaeton by Dietrich has all the desired accessories without being overdone. In the rear of the car for added safety, two period correct tail lamps and brackets have been installed, and are easily removed if desired by its next caretaker.