This 1933 Packard Victoria Cabriolet deVille was 10th in a series of Packard V12 Cabriolets designed by Fernandez Darrin of Paris and was originally owned by Dwight Morrow (Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s father). This is also the car the transported Charles Lindbergh and his wife to the trials for the “Murder of the Century”.
The current owner, Dr. Briglia has owned the car for 52 years, has had it restored and has been showing it for 44 years, I was floored when I saw it in addition to the interesting twist on its history it is really a beauty!
Performance
- Engine: Straight-eight (inline-8) engine.
- Power Output: Approximately 120 horsepower, a substantial amount for its time.
- Transmission: 3-speed manual transmission.
- Top Speed: Around 85 mph (137 km/h), impressive for a luxury car of this era.
- Suspension: Leaf springs and solid axles, typical of the period but tuned for a smooth and comfortable ride.
- Brakes: Mechanical drum brakes, standard for the time, providing adequate stopping power.
Production and Legacy
- Production Years: The Victoria Cabriolet deVille was produced during the early 1930s, with the 1933 model being one of the standout years.
- Total Units Produced: Exact production numbers for this specific model are limited, contributing to its rarity and value.
- Price: Originally marketed as a high-end luxury vehicle, the Packard Victoria Cabriolet deVille was quite expensive, making it accessible only to the affluent.
Significance
- Design Excellence: The Victoria Cabriolet deVille is celebrated for its elegant and timeless design, with flowing lines, a long hood, and a distinctive grille.
- Luxury and Prestige: Packard was synonymous with luxury and prestige during this era, and the Victoria Cabriolet deVille exemplified this reputation.
- Historical Importance: The car represents the pinnacle of pre-war American automotive design and engineering, reflecting the opulence of the era before the economic challenges of the Great Depression significantly impacted the luxury car market.
You may purchase a print of the 1933 Packard Victoria Cabriolet deVille in our dElegance 2017 online gallery.
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