Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

I just noticed this in the 1940 Salesmans Data book. The artillery wheels were still an option. Having found a set, I decided to see what they look like on my 180 touring sedan.

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West, for what it's worth and just my opinion but to me the artillery wheels look best on the sporty body styles like convertibles and coupes, and really look out of place on more formal styles like black sedans.

I wasn't aware that they were available for the senior cars as late as 1940 but then again with a lot of things and especially Packards, it's a dull day that you don't learn something new!

I agree, David. However, after looking at the car in person for a couple of days now, I'm starting to like it. Maybe not as much as the other style, though. The inner trim rings add a lot, and hub caps without the inner trim rings just look a little strange.

West!

Wide White Walls?
Turned to the dark side of the force?

Once you put those rim covers on, it's hard to go back. I didn't put them on for a long time because I was going to pinstripe the wheels. But once on...

Those artillery wheels would be very appropriate on an olive drab Packard with a big white star in the center of the back door. Or some uility-bodied Packard or station wagon.

Really? Were they considered to be sportier?

Hi West

Steel artillery wheels seem to have had their greatest currency from 1932 to 1937 but were displaced by more modern styles thereafter. Its surprising Packard was still cataloguing them as an option for 1940. It confirms an anomaly which I thought was a mistake or artist's license when the '39 Six was rendered for the sales brochure. Though the image is indistinct, those are clearly artillery wheels.

I'll leave the aesthetic judgments of appeal to others, though note they look unique on your car.

Steve

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