I'm going to have to start frequenting Craigs List. I had no idea CL might be used to sell vintage cars. I figured that Packards would only be on Hemmings, Auto Trader, and similar sites.

Thank you for the link.

BTW, were the spot-lights added or were those an option?

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Thanks for the words of encouragement. I appreciate them. You are right about knowing it when it I see--complemented by having the adequate funds on hand.

I'm afraid I'm one of those poor slobs who's going to have to save and save and save, or borrow the money. When you teach school for a living, borrowing money is basically a way of life, if you're ever going to have anything you may want, considerably different from what you need.

I do know that I want either a 120 sedan or 120 coupe with a straight-8. The 115 you showed me looks nice and is reasonably priced. For superior the 120 coupe I saw on Autotrader for $21K needing at a minimum another $12k in restoration work.

I've got good vibes about this site. I'm certain to find what I'm looking for through networking. Everyone here has been just wonderful to me in the scant two weeks I've been a member.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

I rather thought it had been on ebay for quite awhile. Perhaps it hasn't sold because (a) the reserve is very high, or (b) potential buyers are hoping to get the car "on the cheap." Hence, the reason the bidding has been topping out at $25K.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Who has seen that phenomenal 1938 Packard Super 8 Senior Packard classified as a "survivor" on ebay? The bidding seems to have stalled just below $13K, with the reserve still to be met. I wonder what the reserve might be on such a car?

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

I'm afraid I more than adequately demonstrated my hopelessly pedestrian mentality about cars in general by focusing on the appearance. You are correct, first and foremost are the mechanical aspects of the car. What good is it to have a beautiful car if can't be driven out of the driveway without breaking down?

It's at times like these that I wish I knew something about cars. Of course, I can always learn. But, living in an apartment with no tools or place to work on a car is quite a handicap.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Yes, the rumble seat/trunk, plus being a 120 coupe model are what initially attracted me to the car--in addition to the price. Based on your input and that of the other Packard pro's, it would take, conservatively, $10K to get the car looking presentable and reliably functional. To be honest and not overly dramatic, but that after-market heater is pretty scary, considering it is interfaced with the fuel line. Good lord! One can only imagine what might happen.

Thank you for taking the time to give me your valuable input. I appreciate it.
kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Good lord! Scary just thinking about the potential serious safety issues with the heater. I'm so glad to have found this place. A novice like me could really get suckered into both costly and physically dangerous mistakes.

I appreciate your input.
kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Wow! Thank you and the others immensely for the wealth of info. I appreciate it. First, the obvious need for a paint job was a primary concern. Second, to my untrained eye, I knew the tires/wheels were not correct. Glad that he has the originals. Third, the after-market was troubling, especially since it was pointed it that it uses gas from the fuel line. Yikes! Scary thought of what might happen. Fourth, all the other issues you pointed out in addition to the paint job, engine detailing, etc, could easily tack on additional $10K to the selling price. Merciful heavens. This hobby is not for the financially faint of heart.

Again, thank you for the info. I appreciate you looking at the car.
kind regards
Garrett Meadows

http://www.autotraderclassics.com/classic-car/1937-Packard-120-1566267.xhtml?conversationId=765471

Above is a link to a 1937 Packard 120 coupe currently listed on Auto Trader for $21,000.

I'd appreciate feedback on price/condition.

I'm not keen on the dark brown body color.

Kind regards
Garrett Meadows

GREAT SITE! Loved reading about Don! He definitely provides an invaluable service. I've often wondered what someone does when a certain part no longer exists. Fascinating stuff.

Lord willing, one day I'll own a pre- WWII Packard.

Kind regards
Garrett Meadows