Introduced at New York Automobile Show time in January, the 1932 Packard Twin Six 905 Coupe Roadster was Packard's entry in the multi-cylinder race taking place in all the US luxury brands. Its designation was a look back to the World War I-era Twin Sixes, and would be used this first year only. The wheelbases were 142.5 inches for the 905 models and prices began at $3,650 and rose from there to $7,950.
The V16 was notable for its innovative design, which included a longer and wider body than previous Cadillac models, as well as a powerful engine and a luxurious interior. Ten body styles were offered on the 905 chassis, but the only non-custom bodies were a 5/7-passenger sedan and sedan-limousine, All the others in the line being the Individual Custom cars, either by Dietrich or Packard's own shop and the interior appointments were lavish.
The V-12 was a very unique design with semi-overhead valves (set in the head but almost 90 degrees to the vertical). It is so quiet that even with the hood open you can barely hear it running, but it makes smooth power and torque. The 445 CID V-12 delivered 160 HP @ 3200 RPM and 348 ft. lbs. of torque @ 1400 RPM. Though a Twin Six five-passenger sedan was clocked at 101 mph, Packard brochures understated the car's performance and only claimed a speed in excess of 85.
1932 Packard Twin Six 905 Coupe Roadster Key Features and Specifications
- Manufacturer: Packard Motor Car Company
- Model: Twin Six 905 Coupe Roadster
- Year: 1932
- Engine:
- Type: V12 engine (Packard's iconic "Twin Six")
- Displacement: Approximately 7.3 liters (445 cubic inches)
- Power Output: Around 160-175 horsepower
- Transmission:
- Type: 3-speed manual transmission
- Chassis and Body:
- Frame: Steel ladder type
- Body Style: Coupe Roadster with convertible top
- Suspension:
- Front: Independent suspension with coil springs
- Rear: Semi-elliptical leaf springs
- Brakes:
- Type: Hydraulic drum brakes
- Wheelbase: Approximately 142 inches (3,607 mm)
- Weight: Approximately 4,900-5,500 pounds (2,220-2,495 kg)
- Fuel Capacity: Not specified
- Performance:
- Top Speed: Around 80-90 mph (129-145 km/h)
- 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) Acceleration: Not typically specified for luxury cars of this era
- Design: Classic luxury styling with a long hood, sweeping fenders, and plush interior amenities.
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