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Greetings -

I'm a newbie to classic cars, considering my first, a 1941 Packard.

As I'm not an ace mechanic at this point, I need something that's in very condition.

I found the following ad, and would appreciate feedback, especially around the price. $24,700. Fair? High? Bargain? Based on some initial research, I think it's on the high side.

Thanks in advance!
Daren
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1941 Packard One-Twenty 4door Touring Sedan Series 1901

This car was supposed to be at the Mecum auction just missed the deadline. It was going to be at no reserve. Models like this one have sold for over $40,000 they are very rare and this is a special series. I have all the paperwork from the original owner. This is a must-see probably sell to the first person that looks at it.

Miles shown 48,838

Two tone silver metallic combination

Optional dual side mounting spare tires

Have complete paperwork from when the car was new to all the repairs done. Engine was rebuilt approximately 2,000 mi ago. New interior that is a year old. Has the 12 volt conversion. The car rides like a dream. Has the original straight 8 engine with 120 horsepower. Does not leak any fluid.

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Might be a little!!!! over priced. Old Cars price guide lists a 1901 in number one (perfect show car) for $30,000. I would say the car in the picture should go for high teens or low twenties. Door handle, missing bumper guards, question bumper bolts, side mount covers.

perhaps obvious, but it's missing the metal sidemount covers and I think the running board trim. What's the interior like? Should be wool - most likely striped broadcloth but check the references on this site to see about whether the plain wool or Bedford cord were options. If it needs interior Tenite plastic check LaVine for prices. the paint scheme does not appear correct - the two-tone gray was a silver upper and a gunmetal lower. I am reluctant to comment on price, but seems high unless the interior is correct and nice.

The 12-volt conversion does not necessarily add value and may be a liability, all too many of such conversions are incompletely and improperly done. I suggest a thorough check of the electrical system, and if authenticity is important to you, consider the cost of returning it to factory original configuration.

Not enough information about the mechanical and interior condition to comment on the value. And it would also be helpful to know how important authenticity and correctness are to you.

Properly sorted, the 1941 Packards are delightful road cars with excellent handling. Having overdrive would be a very desirable plus.

Yes, the price is certainly on the high side.

These are a lovely car to drive and fairly easy to maintain. I had a vary nice 1941 120 Club Coupe in very good condition. It had the 12V conversion which is obviously not original but does have its advantages with an alternator. Worth asking who did the conversion. It's not straightforward (especially the instruments etc) and many are half baked. The original starter motor is usually not changed. It will work like a demon on 12V - at least for a while.

You don't mention if this car has overdrive. These are quite low geared and buzzy at highway speeds without the overdrive. If it's fitted, worth checking that it's working.

Other than that, looks like a pretty nice car!

Cheers

Brian

Thanks for all the helpful observations and guidance! I've posed a few Qs to the seller based on the input.

Here are a couple more pics.

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Seat upholstery looks like correct pattern, but wrong material. Running boards look like no rubber coating and no stainless on top or sides. The good news is that the Junior top trim is much easier to find. Not a bad looking car (the side mount covers will help a lot). If you are into judging, it will score higher at a general meet than a PAC meet because of authenticity items already noted.

I think I see the glass wing broken short on the hood ornament. Again, not hard to fix (provided the late Mr TerHorst left stock) but consider it in the budget.

Hi Daren

Welcome! You made a good choice in Packard, though regarding this particular 1941 120 sedan, I would not let enthusiasm cloud good judgement. The advice given already is very good and you should consider each point carefully.

The description from the auction listing is the typical hype they use when promoting a car. The 1941 120 1901 sold 17,100 cars, the majority which were the touring sedan. Finding other examples will not be difficult, but will require some patience.

As others have note, $24K is a good $10K overpriced from what can be determined from the photos. If factory correct and complete is what you seek, this car has much work and expense to bring it to that status. This, of course, is without an assessment of its mechanical condition. There is no substitute for an in-person inspection and test drive.

Your best course is to learn as much as you can about these cars and inspect other examples first to know what is correct. Its worth your time to do so.

Recommended to that end is to join either the Packard Club (PAC) or Packards International (PI) and region that is most active in your area. Then, meet other members, see their cars and let them know you specific interest. Frequently good cars trade between club members at favorable prices that aren't offered publicly for sale.

Good luck with your search and please keep us apprised of your progress.

Steve