The 1936 Packard 1407 Coupe Roadster V12 is an exceptional example of luxury and engineering from one of America's premier automotive manufacturers during the pre-war era. Featuring Packard’s legendary V12 engine, elegant design, and uncompromising attention to detail, this vehicle embodies the pinnacle of 1930s American luxury motoring.
Background
- Manufacturer: Packard Motor Car Company
- Model Year: 1936
- Model: 1407 Coupe Roadster
- Series: Fourteenth Series
- Significance: Positioned at the top of Packard’s lineup, the 1407 V12 models were synonymous with power, prestige, and sophistication. They were often chosen by the wealthy elite and dignitaries of the era.
Specifications
- Engine:
- Type: 473 cubic inch (7.8-liter) L-head V12 engine.
- Output: Approximately 175 horsepower at 3,200 rpm.
- Features: Smooth and quiet operation, attributed to its advanced engineering, including balanced crankshaft and 45-degree bank angle.
- Known for its effortless torque delivery and refinement.
- Transmission: 3-speed manual with synchromesh on 2nd and 3rd gears for smooth shifting.
- Chassis: Steel ladder-frame construction, providing strength and stability for the luxurious bodywork.
- Suspension:
- Front: Independent with coil springs and hydraulic shock absorbers.
- Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs with hydraulic shock absorbers.
- Brakes: Mechanical drum brakes on all four wheels with Packard’s Bendix-assisted system for enhanced stopping power.
Design and Features
- Exterior:
- The Coupe Roadster body style offered a stunning blend of sportiness and elegance, with a folding convertible roof and a rumble seat for additional passengers.
- Signature design elements included a long hood to house the V12 engine, sweeping fenders, and a distinctive radiator grille topped with Packard’s iconic “Goddess of Speed” hood ornament.
- Dual side-mounted spare tires with metal covers, chrome accents, and wire-spoke wheels added to its luxurious appeal.
- The two-tone paint options, popular in the era, enhanced the car’s visual sophistication.
- Interior:
- The cabin featured plush leather upholstery, wood-grain accents, and a beautifully detailed dashboard with art deco-inspired instrumentation.
- Amenities such as an adjustable steering column and a clock emphasized comfort and convenience.
Performance
- Top Speed: Approximately 100 mph (161 km/h), impressive for a car of its size and era.
- Driving Experience: The V12 engine provided smooth, quiet power delivery, ideal for both highway cruising and city driving. The car’s advanced suspension system ensured a comfortable and composed ride.
- Handling: While not a sports car, the 1407 Coupe Roadster’s balanced chassis and independent front suspension offered surprisingly good agility for a luxury automobile.
Legacy
- Rarity: The 1407 V12 Coupe Roadster was produced in limited numbers, making surviving examples highly sought after by collectors.
- Cultural Impact: As one of the most prestigious cars of its time, the Packard V12 represented the height of American luxury and craftsmanship during the Great Depression.
- Collector Value: Restored examples of the 1407 V12 Coupe Roadster are highly valued for their historical significance, timeless design, and engineering excellence.
Summary
The 1936 Packard 1407 Coupe Roadster V12 is a stunning embodiment of pre-war luxury and innovation. With its powerful V12 engine, elegant design, and impeccable craftsmanship, it remains one of the most iconic and desirable cars of the era. Whether admired on the concours lawn or enjoyed on the open road, the 1407 Coupe Roadster is a masterpiece of American automotive history.
Taken at the Hilton Head Concours
You may purchase a print of the The 1936 Packard Coupe Roadster 1407 V12 in our dElegance 2024 online gallery.
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