Packards have always been about providing premium motoring, but this 1928 Packard 526 Dual-Cowl Phaeton shows a new level of class in its originality. It was featured this week in the Cars On Line newsletter, as it was posted for sale by Streetside Classics in Charlotte, North Carolina. They tell us that the bodywork, chrome grille, solid two-tone wheels, lights, foldable luggage rack, and all other major components show signs that they were in the care of someone who knew that maintaining this 1928 Packard 526 Dual-Cowl Phaeton was a labor of love.
While the endurance of some paintjobs will mention the numbers of years it survived, this one can be measured in the people it outlived. The dual cowl phaeton is one of the most sought-after styles from this era. It combines the ideas of early open motoring with the elegant appearance (and function) of an adjustable second windshield for the passengers. For added weather protection, there is a folding canvas top. It has a sleeker profile than convertible sedans of this era, which allows for it to show off part of its wood construction. Factory-correct side curtains are also included if you need to fully button-up this phaeton.
Click the video window below to see the incredible detail on this classic motorcar, and listen to it run:
Powering this Packard is the 289 cubic-inch straight six cylinder motor. It’s mated to a three-speed manual transmission (pre-synchromesh). 1928 was the final year for the “Single Six” and constant improvement to this model meant its 81 hp was now approaching its larger eight-cylinder brother. All Packards carried the same engineering marvels of the time such as the four-wheel brakes, chassis lubrication system, and pedal activated stop light. While the six-cylinder was a bit more economical, it is like trying to compare Rolls-Royces today. The cost of this phaeton when new could have bought around five Ford Model As. In fact, Packard used a great analogy to help people understand why the 526 models were so expensive. The company would mention that people once bought paper-soled shoes until they realized buying better shoes lasted longer. So Packard warned others not to pay less for paper-soled cars. Imagine if had they had only known how long this phaeton would last!
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