1932 Packard Series 900
The Packard Series 900, also called the Light Eight, was both the original hot rod and the first entry-level luxury car. Produced exclusively for the 1932 model year, the Series 900 with its distinctive shovelhead nose was the automaker’s attempt to boost sales at the height of the Great Depression. Its low-slung aerodynamic profile foreshadows post-War concept cars such as Harley Earl’s 1938 Y Job and 1951 Buick LeSabre. It followed his dictum: “Longer, lower, wider.”
The Light Eight was styled in-house by Packard’s chief stylist Werner Gubitz. Aside from the dramatic grille, the front end had no headlamp tie bar to spoil the lines, and the body featured a high beltline, low roof, and sweeping fenders. Packard offered four styles; a handsome four-door sedan, a two-door sedan coupe (or Victoria coupe), a coupe and coupe-roadster. Despite being priced below $2,000, dealers were relieved to discover the 900 Light Eight exuded Packard quality and prestige. It was also 600 pounds lighter than the Standard Eight, with which it shared its 320 cubic-inch eight-cylinder engine, imparting the 900 with brisk acceleration and better economy than its larger sibling. The 900 was the first Packard to feature a synchromesh gearbox, lauded for its exceptional smoothness and quiet operation.
Interior appointments on the Light Eight were simple yet elegant. For the roadsters, leather features in place of the broadcloth on closed cars. This car’s leather trim is in very good condition, with brown seats and carpets complementing the exterior color scheme. Rugs are tidy, door panels excellent, and the seat is very good with a bit of care-worn character to the upholstery. Steering wheel controls, gear lever, and switchgear are in fine order, and the instruments are excellent. Standard equipment included adjustable ride control and an “automatic clutch” which was operated by the red knob on the steering wheel hub. The top is trimmed in light beige canvas, which is sound and in good working order, though some minor blemishes are visible in the material.
For the driving enthusiast desiring a rare Packard 900 to enjoy on the road, look no further than this lovely 1932 Light Eight Coupe-Roadster. This handsome Shovelnose wears a well-preserved older restoration, featuring numerous desirable factory options. It is finished in tan over reddish brown fenders, with orange highlights adding a pop of color. The straight panels and excellent detailing point to a high-quality job and meticulous maintenance. The restoration has mellowed nicely, with attractive paint in good condition. The brightwork is quite presentable, with some polish marks and light hazing that are consistent with the age. This 900 is a well-optioned car, with the equipment list that includes wire wheels, dual side-mount spares with steel covers, front fender lights, and a trunk rack. The wheels are wrapped in fresh Firestone whitewalls, and the car sits beautifully on the road, looking low and sleek with the proud Cormorant mascot adorning the radiator.
The “Light Eight” cars did succeed as a styling exercise for the body designers. Many of the new features included on this car ended up being used on future Packards. This automobile is equipped with adjustable ride control via a single knob located under the dashboard; the shock absorbers could be adjusted for a variety of loads and road conditions from the comfort of the driver’s seat!
