Packard Twelve Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Packard Twelve

The Packard Twelve—originally introduced as the "Twin Six"—mirrors the luxury ambitions of Detroit’s golden automotive era. Produced initially from 1916–1923 and reintroduced from 1933–1939, it was Packard’s flagship offering, attracting America’s most affluent as well as a host of celebrated coachbuilders like LeBaron, Dietrich, and Brunn. The progression from fully custom to semi-custom bodywork in the later years marked a shift in market preferences. High social standing and technical breakthroughs shaped its reputation as the preferred vehicle for American industrialists and celebrities. Distinguished by its combination of exquisite craftsmanship and innovation, the Twelve’s enduring fame is linked as much to its design as to its historic owners and ongoing presence at prestigious concours and rallies.

Model History of the Packard Twelve

The first generation of the Packard Twelve, sold as the Twin Six, set groundwork until 1923. The line was brought back in 1933, with annual series such as the 11th, 12th, and 14th through 16th. Each series introduced subtle updates in power, dimensions, body styles, and technology. Notably, the Twelve represented the pinnacle of Packard’s engineering, using V12 engines with displacements ranging from 7.2 to 7.8 litres, and served as the successor to earlier eight-cylinder models, but found fierce competition from the likes of Cadillac Sixteen and Duesenberg. The concluding 16th series saw continual upgrades to refinement and mechanics before production halted in 1939.

Highlights and Unique Features

Every detail on the Packard Twelve reflects painstaking refinement: from its V12 delivering 160–175 hp with characteristic silence, to flowing fenders, V-shaped grilles, chromed wire wheels and unmistakable hood mascots like the Cormorant or Goddess of Speed. Body styles spanned everything from Coupe Roadster to Limousine, including rare models such as Dual-Cowl Phaeton. Interiors featured rich leathers—sometimes even Russian pony hide—deep carpets and real wood dashboards. Coachbuilders delivered individually crafted bodies, resulting in rare variants with limited surviving examples today.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Several Twelve models are regarded as highly collectible due to limited production runs and unique coachwork. Ultra-rare body types, such as custom-built Sports Phaetons by LeBaron or Dietrich, and certain Limousines or Convertible Victorias, were produced in very small numbers—sometimes fewer than five or ten units. Many of these special editions were tailored to individual client specifications, enhancing their exclusivity and historical significance.

Engine, Performance, Gearbox, and Handling

Packard’s V12 was engineered for near-silent refinement, making the Twelve as smooth at idle as at speed. Outputting up to 175 hp, the engine’s flexibility was matched by fully synchronized gearboxes and, from 1937, independent front suspension—a significant handling improvement. Early vacuum-assisted brakes transitioned to hydraulic brakes in the final years, further enhancing drivability and safety, especially for such large and heavy vehicles. Wheelbase variations and custom coachwork led to distinct handling profiles depending on the body and configuration. • 14th Series (1936): Scored highest in listing views, with advanced technology and a mature ‘streamline’ body style. • 11th Series (1934): Strong supply, prized for its established V12 performance and range of prestigious coachbuilt bodies. • Custom Dual-Cowl Phaeton: Coveted for unique styling and exclusivity, often limited to single-digit production numbers.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design Features

Packard Twelve interiors demonstrated a focus on luxury and comfort—deep pile carpets, hand-finished wood dashboards, and leather seats in rich hues or even rare Russian pony. Accessories included fold-out jump seats, in-car radios with rear controls, rear compartment heating, and division windows in chauffeur models. Externally, streamlined forms, rounded fenders, split V-shaped radiator grilles, personnel lamps (like Trippe lights), and dramatic two-tone paintwork, all paired with abundant chrome trim, define the visual identity. Wheel covers for spare tyres and elaborate hood ornaments were commonplace, reinforcing exclusivity and style.

Other Features

Many Packard Twelves were delivered to high-profile buyers or exported, often featuring colour schemes not found in a catalogue. The Twelve’s frequent participation in concours events, rallies, and Packard Club exhibitions attests to their ongoing mechanical reliability and exceptional presentation quality.

Summary

Packard’s Twelve series embodies American engineering and coachbuilding at its height, integrating groundbreaking technology, refined V12 engines, and a broad spectrum of luxury accoutrements. Collector interest is underpinned by both the technical specification and rarity—especially for coachbuilt and limited-edition models—while demand statistics show ongoing popularity for later series. For those interested in mechanical excellence, design detail, and a piece of American automotive heritage, the Packard Twelve remains in a class of its own.