Restored Rumble: 1936 Packard Model 120B – Sold?
April 15, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.
By the mid-1930s as American dug itself out of the Great Depression, luxury carmakers that didn’t fold outright struggled to identify their place in the market. A prime example was independent manufacturer Packard when it launched its One-Twenty line in 1935. As was typical through the 1930s, buyers of these cars could tailor the cars to suit their tastes and/or needs. Not surprisingly, his 1936 Packard 120B originally listed in March 2021 in Middletown, New Jersey features a factory-installed combination Trunk and Rumble Seat. The recipient of a documented body-off restoration, the current caretaker has their Packard listed for $34,500. Unfortunately, neither of our typical pricing sources offers comparable information to gauge the seller’s ask in this case.
Packard produced its Series 120 line from 1935 to 1937 and from 1939 through the 1941 model years. The “120” designation was a reference to the length of the car’s wheelbase. The One-Twenty signified the first time that Packard had entered into the highly competitive mid-priced eight-cylinder car market. Packard enthusiasts view the production of the One-Twenty and the Six/One-Ten models as the start of Packard’s losing its hold on the market as the premier American luxury automotive brand. It was a marketing strategy shared with GM’s LaSalle, the Chrysler Airstream, and the Lincoln-Zephyr. It was introduced after Rolls-Royce brought to market the Rolls-Royce 20, which was manufactured between 1922 and 1929, and replaced by the Rolls-Royce 20/25 which was built between 1929 and 1936.
We came across this video showing what it takes to start a vintage Packard 8 engine in modern times:
We love the green-over-tan-mohair color combination this Packard offers. The only thing giving us pause on this car is the gas tank that appears to feature a POR15 style restoration, so check the condition carefully on this or confirm that’s in fact what it originally looked like. If your tastes run towards a classic Rumble Seat Equipped Coupe that’s more luxurious than a typical Ford of the period, this 120B may be the car for you.
Here’s the seller’s description:
“1936 Packard model 120B that was specially built with a rumble seat and a trunk. This car had a body-off restoration which included an engine rebuild. (restorations pictures available upon request) The engine rebuild only has 16,000 miles on it. This car runs like new, the car is located in Middletown NJ, and is available for inspection. Any questions or to schedule an inspection contact Dan at Home“
Do you have a Packard 120 story you would like to share? Comment below and let us know!
As the owner with a 1941 120 Packard, I have to say they are a standout car. Yes, the positive ground 6 volt motors are a little slow to turn over, which is why I mounted an Optima battery on the frame near the starter (normal location is under the front seat). The inline eights do run smooth and the hood ornaments are eye catching. On a slow cruise through a nearby park, we were greeted with a loud comment from picnickers, “Have you got any Gray poupon”?
I purchased the 1936 Packard 120B with rumble seat in 2021. The older restoration has held up but needs refreshed. We will slowly start work in 2023. This year we have had mechanical issues workout as car sat for sometime.
My wife and I really have enjoyed the car.