1936 Packard One-Twenty Business Coupe

Description

Introduced in 1935, the One-Twenty was Packard's first entry into the mid-priced eight-cylinder car market — a significant departure from the Detroit automaker's traditional focus on luxury vehicles. Named for its 120-inch wheelbase, the car was designed to offer Packard quality at a more accessible price point, and it helped save the company from the depths of the Great Depression.

The One-Twenty featured a new 282 cubic-inch straight-eight engine, which was smaller than those in Packard's senior models but still delivered solid performance. While the One-Twenty was available in various body styles (sedans, coupes, and convertibles), the Business Coupe variant was particularly popular among professionals who needed a stylish yet practical vehicle.

In 1936, the One-Twenty received several updates, including the introduction of the 120-B specification. This version featured improved styling with a more streamlined appearance and no longer had suicide front doors. The car's front end was refined, and it incorporated independent front suspension (dubbed “Safe-T-Flex") and hydraulic brakes, which were advanced features for the era. The 120 B upgrade also increased engine output to 120 horsepower and included the use of a new circular radiator, accelerator linkage, shift mechanism, and coil springs.

Highlights 

• Finished in period-correct Packard Cream over period-correct plush brown cloth upholstery 

• Powered by a 282 cu-in inline-eight engine originally rated at 120 horsepower 

• Three-speed manual transmission with synchromesh on the second and third forward gears 

• Upgrades under current ownership: 

  • Rebuilt engine and steering box 

  • Electric fuel pump 

  • New Diamond radial 215/85R16 tires 

• Maintenance/upgrades under previous ownership: 

  • Rebuilt transmission 

  • Installed front end struts 

  • New front shocks 

  • Rebuilt the steering box 

  • New shift rods 

  • New fuel tank 

  • New water pump gasket with thermostat 

  • New hubcaps 

  • New fuel sending unit 

  • Electric fuel pump 

  • Voltage regulator 

Features 

• Cormorant hood ornament 

• Hydraulic Brakes 

• Running board 

• Banjo-style steering wheel 

• 120 mph speedometer/odometer and gauges for fuel, water temperature, amps, and oil pressure 

• Windshield wiper  

• Heater  

Known Imperfections 

• Horns do not work 

• Dome light does not work 

• Vacuum wiper motor is missing 

• Two small dents in the trunk lid 

Included 

• Spare tire 

• Original floor jack 

• Period-correct Packard tools with canvas case   

• Fire extinguisher 

• Owner’s manual 

• Several shop manuals 

• Folder with all receipts from recent engine rebuild 

Ownership History

Research indicates that this 1936 Packard One-Twenty Business Coupe was originally purchased in Rhode Island and also spent time in Virginia and New York before its current owner bought it in November 2023. The car currently resides in Port Charlotte, Florida.  

Additional Notes    

There is a loan on this vehicle. Sale proceeds will be used to satisfy the loan and allow the seller to transfer the title to the winning bidder. Please contact the seller directly with any questions. 

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.