POWERTRAIN
A big luxury car deserves a big engine and the high performance Merlin 604-cubic inch Chevrolet big-block V-8 in this custom Packard convertible more than fills the bill. The fuel-injected engine is based on a Merlin 604 block with Dart Pro-1 cylinder heads, a Wilson intake manifold and a Holley fuel-injection system. Custom tubular headers lead to twin Magnaflow mufflers. The automatic transmission is a GM 4L80E four-speed overdrive unit. The seller states that there are no leaks from either the engine or transmission and that the latter shifts fine. Cold starts are described as a simple turn of the key with a moderate warmup period followed by smooth idle with no smoke.
EXTERIOR
Show-quality black paint covers the beautifully restored body. The seller describes the paint as “deep black” with no swirl marks. He says there are two or three rock chips that are too small to show in photos. The extensive chrome components have seemingly all been restored to the highest levels. The door and trunk handles along with the hood have all been shaved and they operate electronically via the key fob. All seals were replaced during the restoration and there are no leaks reported. The glass and lighting are all said to be in excellent working condition. The power convertible top reportedly operates without any problems.
CHASSIS
A full custom chassis was built for this car. The independent front suspension features power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering with disc brakes. An AccuAir Air Ride air-suspension system with E-Level on all four corners is controlled via interior switches. The compressors and air tank are in the trunk. The seller says the car drives straight without any issues. There are no suspension leaks or wear problems. The custom wire knock-off wheels are mated to Hankook 255/50R17 radial tires with a stated 90% tread remaining.
DOCUMENTATION
This 1949 Packard Super Eight Convertible was the recipient of what was clearly a high-dollar total restoration and customization treatment using top quality parts and professional craftsmanship. A famous Packard slogan was, “Ask the man who owns one.” As the next owner of this stately Packard street rod convertible you could be the person with the answers about how much fun it is to cruise in a ’49 Packard with a 604-cu.in. V-8.