Re: I need some serious advice about buying a Packard

Posted by 58L8134 On 2016/2/22 18:54:29

Hi Garrett

All good advice given, here's my further two cents:

"Sixth, I have my heart set on either a 1936, '37, or '38 Packard 120 coupe."

After years of personally having a "heart set upon a..." and being disappointed that the particular models kept jumping in price beyond my reach, I came to the conclusion I'd denied myself the experience of Packard ownership to no good end. At that point, I started to open my mind to a range of acceptable years and models within various prices ranges. No Packard yet but far less frustrating.

With this in mind, I'd recommend you enlarge your acceptable list to include all Six and 120 closed models from 1937-1942. Coupes and convertibles tend to run to the higher priced side while perfectly enjoyable, realistically sedans go begging.

Limited financial resources demand careful selection of the best car you can find for the price. The confluence of year, model, body style, condition and price narrow quickly when only a '36-'38 120 coupe is acceptable. Such restriction could cause you to miss an good '40 120 sedan that could provide many enjoyable Packard ownership experiences for you and your family.

Join a Packard club and your local region, attend both National meets and regional gatherings, meet the folks. Contacts within the club frequently turn up an acceptable car that is never advertised.

Oh yes, check Various CL Pickings here frequently. We try to highlight cars that need new, appreciative owners, sometimes priced very reasonably. Although CL advertisers tend to be very optimistic to the point of unrealistic on price, those who are truly interested in selling will deal.

Good luck and keep us posted on your progress.

Steve