Summary

Beautifully restored 1928 Packard from the final year of the Single Six. Powered by a 288ci 6-cylinder engine mated to a manual transmission. Presented in authentic colors with a superbly maintained older restoration.

Details

The 1928 Packard 526 was powered by a 288ci 6-cylinder engine mated to a manual transmission. The 526 offered here is a handsome 5-passenger sedan that received a very high-quality, body-off restoration in the 1990s and has since been maintained in superb condition in the care of the same family. Documents and photographs reveal this was a solid, honest car before its extensive restoration. With the body off of the chassis, restorers stripped and refinished the frame in gloss black and carefully refurbished the mechanical components before installation. Period-appropriate colors suit the understated and elegant factory coachwork, which features a rear-mounted spare wheel to maintain a clean, uninterrupted flow of the fenders. Painted steel disc wheels tie together with the contrasting-color window surrounds, and red pinstripes to complement those on the body. Accessories include a chrome radiator shell, Moto-Meter, radiator stone guard, fan-style exhaust deflector and cast Packard-script running board boot scrapers. The interior is equally as impressive as the body and paint, with Taupe fabric upholstery used on the seats and door cards. The quality materials and detailing of the passenger compartment reveal the level of care and research paid to the restoration. Rear passengers enjoy a roomy bench seat, and period-correct roller blinds on the rearmost windows offer up shade and privacy. Packard’s 288ci inline-6 shared the same underlying architecture and high levels of refinement with the big L-head eight. Restored with both show and touring in mind, the engine is well-detailed in factory-correct finishes and shows moderate signs of use since the restoration. Similarly, the chassis and suspension components present in excellent condition, belying the age of the restoration. This cheerful and attractive 526 sedan would be a marvelous foray into the world of classic touring, thanks to its approachable size and solid performance. The 526 is recognized as a Full Classic by the CCCA and is eligible for CARavan tours. In the time since its high-quality restoration, it is an excellent choice for regular enjoyment on family outings, club events or regional shows.