When I was a little boy back in the 1960's, I remember my late great-grand father (born 1886) spoke about driving a car with a "joy stick."

Thanks for the pic. It brought back some great memories of spending time with my great-grandparents.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Wow! I marvel at the rapidity of the response rate here!

I guess leather interiors of open cars was more suited to exposure to sun, rain, and other weather conditions.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

First, when did cars start featuring leather interiors, and why?

Second, did Packards ever feature leather interiors?

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Extremely sagacious advice. Considering that (a) I live in an apartment, and (b) what I know about the mechanical workings of the most simple gas-powered engine--including lawnmowers--can easily fit on the head of a pin, I have to buy a car that is good to go. Hence, as one kind respondent stated, buy the best car you can afford, so as to minimize creating a "money pit."

I really appreciate you putting my mind to rest about possibly missing those once-in-a-lifetime-cars. As I've discovered, there is an element of fluidity in the availability of Packards often based on the capriciousness of owners/sellers. So, I'm preparing to dig my heels in for the long haul.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

There was an episode of the old And Griffith show in which Barney gets snookered into buying a piece of junk car that has had sawdust "added" to the kaput transmission to make it run smoothly.

As funny as the episode was, I couldn't help but feel sorry for Barney because some of us have been snookered similarly.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Excellent advice, which has tempered my rush to purchase a Packard. I have a tendency to create what I term an "artificial sense of urgency' when there is absolutely no need to be in a hurry.

I guess now that I have finally committed myself to eventually buying a pre-War II Packard, whenever I see the "perfect car" i'm fearful I'll never have another chance at such a car. Fortunately, I'm forcing myself to listen to "the voice of reason," and relaxing. I realize I need to take the next few months to research, study, and get to know the lay of the land, AND save money. So, when that "perfect car" comes along, I'll be ready.

In the meantime, I'll be badgering all you poor souls with my endless stream of "routine questions." Luckily, everyone with whom I've chatted, have been patient and helpful.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Point well-taken. I'm learning all the nuances of Packard-ownership, especially relative to interior, original parts, etc.

Thank you for your input.
kind regards
Garrett Meadows

You're a god-send. I'd love to drive your Pack. And, yes, I do go through Vegas twice a year when I drive home to Louisiana. When I know for certain when my next trip is, I'll let you know and when can schedule to get together.

BTW, I love watching the Vegas-based show "Counting Cars" the sister-show to "Pawn Stars, where the guys restore/customize cars. Although, I have yet to see anything that pre-dates 1955.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows

It's great to hear from someone who has had a lot of experience driving the particular car. I'm only 5'7", 130 pounds, so I'm sure I'd have great difficulty handling a Packard senior. No doubt it would be handling me.

Considering that I intend to drive whatever Pack I get, it's encouraging to know that a Pack 120 will handle highway speeds.

I hope the good souls here don't get weary entertaining my litany of questions.

Kind regards
Garrett Meadows

Excellent advice. All those who have responded have added a little something to the mix. Love this place. It is refreshing to encounter a forum where people are helpful AND civil.

I have no doubt I'll be able to make an informed decision based solely on what I learn here.

kind regards
Garrett Meadows