The 1932 Packard Twin Six, renowned for its 160 bhp, 445 cu in side valve V-12 engine, is a symbol of timeless elegance. This classic masterpiece is a testament to Packard’s commitment to both high-quality chassis and exquisite custom coachbuilding. Originally, Packard President Alvan Macauley envisioned bringing custom coachbuilding in-house, leading to the creation of the iconic “V-windshield custom Dietrichs.” These vehicles, including the Style 2069 Sport Phaetons, encapsulate the pinnacle of classic styling.
Mounted on the elongated 147½ inch chassis, the Dietrich Individual Customs strike a harmonious balance in body proportions. The spacious passenger compartment is gracefully positioned behind a lengthy hood, and the tapered tail features an integrated trunk, creating a unique and visually striking profile. Every contour of these cars is a masterpiece, from the elegant v-windshield and the signature Dietrich beltline to the meticulously crafted convertible top that enhances the vehicle’s charm whether raised or lowered.
A remarkable feature of the Sport Phaeton is its ingenious rear windshield mechanism. Upon raising the concealed windshield, side wings elegantly extend and link to mechanisms recessed into the rear doors. This innovative design allows passengers to enter or exit the rear compartment with grace, as the side windows smoothly pivot out of the way.
Enthusiasts often favor the lines of the ’32 Twin Six Sport Phaetons over the 1933 models due to the former’s more graceful and classic fender line. The larger 18-inch wheels, particularly when finished in chrome, bestow a regal stance that sets the Twin Six apart from the later Twelve chassis models. Historical records are scarce, making it challenging to ascertain the exact number of these sport phaeton bodies built. However, it is believed that no more than twelve cars were produced. Presently, only seven examples exist, of which five were constructed on the esteemed twelve-cylinder chassis.
One of the surviving 1932 Twin Six Sport Phaetons, body number 5494, embarked on an intriguing journey. Updated in 1938, the original Twin Six sport phaeton body was transplanted onto a 1938 Packard Twelve chassis. The upper cowl and windshield assembly were fitted to the new cowl, and a modern “torpedo” style rear-body section was added, complemented by contemporary pontoon-style Packard fenders.
The owner, believed to have been a U.S. Diplomatic Corps member, took the Packard to South Africa in the late 1930s. Decades later, in the 1960s, classic car enthusiast Jim Hull discovered the Packard in Johannesburg and brought it to the U.S. A restoration transformed the Packard into its original form by marrying it to an exceptional 1932 Twin Six chassis.
The Packard underwent a meticulous restoration by RM Auto Restoration, aiming for Pebble Beach glory. A breathtaking dark violet hue was selected after evaluating numerous color and leather samples. The taupe-colored leather complements the paint beautifully. The car’s debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance marked a significant moment, as it secured the Gwen Graham Award for Most Elegant Open Car.
The Packard Twin Six Sport Phaeton continued to gather accolades, earning CCCA National First Place Senior, Junior, and Senior AACA awards. Its legacy, a blend of restoration excellence and relentless pursuit of elegance, lives on. From its podium triumphs to the serene drives through autumn landscapes, this Packard stands as a testament to timeless style. For collectors, the 1932 Twin Six Sport Phaeton is the pinnacle of classic elegance, embodying the artistry and elegance of the era.
Price: 946,000 USD
The rarity of Dietrich-bodied Packards, especially the vee windshield Custom Dietrich designs, ensures that opportunities to own one are few and far between. The 1932 Twin Six Sport Phaeton, with its captivating history and enduring beauty, is a treasure that rewards its owner with the allure of classic luxury and a sense of unparalleled elegance.
