In 1934, Variety Was an Important Part of the 1101 Series Sedan Success
This 1934 Packard Eight 1101 Series Convertible Sedan rolled out during one of the most challenging periods in our nation’s history. While Packard was still producing top-of-the-line automobiles like this one, the Great Depression was hitting hard, and even the company’s most well-heeled customers weren’t buying.
Thanks in no small part to the variety of its offerings, Packard finished out 1934 with 42.7 percent of the luxury vehicle market, outpacing competitors Lincoln and Cadillac. Still, Packard produced only 8,000 autos, and these were spread across three different engines and five different chassis.
Packard Product Pride
Packard had confidence in its automobiles and wanted its customers to feel the same way. The company encouraged prospective purchasers to request their hometown Packard dealer’s “Who’s Who” book. The lists included local residents who purchased Packards and enabled would-be buyers to contact them for their candid opinions about the vehicles.
Well-Oiled
The 1934 Packard Eight was offered in 13 standard bodies. The 1101, available in 10 body styles, rested on a 136.25-inch wheelbase. Powering the vehicle was a 320 cubic inch, L-head straight-eight engine fitted with a Stromberg carburetor.
Packard’s Eleventh Series included an oil temperature regulator that allowed for the use of the same oil viscosity number throughout the year. Also of note: The 1934 model Packards were the final models with traditional open fenders.
Exterior Details
1934 Packard Eight 1101 Series Specs:
- 320 cubic inch, L-head, inline eight-cylinder engine
- 120 hp
- Stromberg downdraft carburetor
- Three-speed Synchromesh manual gearbox
- Solid axle front suspension with semi-elliptical leaf springs
- Rear live axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs
- Four-wheel, vacuum-assisted, mechanical drum brakes
- 136.25 inch-wheelbase
- Last year for open fenders
Interior Details
