Re: '49 Limousine

Posted by 58L8134 On 2016/1/17 19:00:55

Hi Kevin

"I was just wondering as to if most or all came in a standard configuration, i.e color, interior options etc. or if the could be special ordered by the buyer at the dealer? Mine was originally black with black leather/ leatherette front compartment with a beige broadcloth interior in the rear. It's still a long way off before I get to that point but I would like to go with another color and maybe a brown leather front seat and door panels. I would just like to get some input, Thanks!"

As the composition professors always advised to answer the original questions, and we did get a tad off track onto 23rd Series rarity, here is what Mr. Neal listed for the 22nd Series Super Eight long wheelbase models, pages 227 and 228:

Body---Model------------------Upholstery Options
2276 Super Eight Limousine 76-77 Note 1
2277 Super Eight 7-passenger 76-77
2270 Deluxe Super Eight Limousine 401-402-403-404 Note 1
2271 Deluxe Super Eight 7-passenger 401-402-403-404

Note 1: Driver's seat trimmed in black leather
76: Gray striped broadcloth
77: Tan striped broadcloth, three stripes
401: Tan shadow check broadcloth for body cloth with plain tan broadcloth for side walls and light tan broadcloth for headlining.
402: Green shadow check broadcloth for body cloth with plain green broadcloth for side walls and light tan broadcloth for headlining.
403: Blue shadow check broadcloth for body cloth with plain blue broadcloth for side walls and light tan broadcloth for headlining.
404: Maroon shadow check broadcloth for body cloth with plain maroon broadcloth for side walls and light tan broadcloth for headlining.

The 401 through 404 combinations are also those only applied to the 2250 Custom Eight limousine and 2251 Custom Eight 7-passenger sedan. Though no specific note is made of leather color choices for these models, extra costs options such as leather upholstery in closed cars were available. A set number 824 tan leather and 524 tan leather in combination with Bedford cord are listed.

It depends on how strictly authentic you plan to adhere to the build sheet, if found. Special orders by dealers were always an option though how often it took place with the long wheelbase cars is the question.

Others might take issue, but I'd opine if you apply reasonably conservative taste when choosing as long-wheelbase cars were generally finished then, something like a maroon exterior with brown leather and tan Bedford cord in the original pattern, you will have a Packard to be very proud of and pleased with. If you plan to go for club judging, you'll want to stick strickly with the known combinations.

Good luck and please keep us apprised of your progress.

Steve