Highlights
- Full mechanical restoration and cosmetic refresh carried out in 2020, backed by nearly $15,000 in invoices
- The seller states that the cabin is in very good condition, with upholstery re-done in line with the original specification
- Registered on collection plates in France, with matching numbers reported
- Many original parts retained, including the dashboard, instruments, chrome trim and the manufacturer’s plate
The appeal
The Packard Eight Club Sedan is a perfect illustration of late-1940s American automotive grand luxury. Renowned for its smooth, quiet inline eight-cylinder engine, as well as its build quality, it remains one of the defining models of the era. Packards from the 23rd Series continue to attract collectors today, drawn to the elegance and refinement of this golden age of American motoring.
This 1949 example has benefited from an extensive mechanical and cosmetic restoration carried out in 2020. Imported directly from the United States in July 2025, the car would retain its matching-numbers 288 ci (4.7-litre) inline-eight engine, along with many original components, including the dashboard, instruments, chrome trims and the manufacturer’s plate.
Today, registered in France on a collector-style registration document, this Packard presents only a few minor cosmetic imperfections—namely small dents, as well as a small puncture located inside the left rear wheel-arch area, without affecting the outside appearance of the wing.
Key information
- Odometer reading: approx. 44,000 miles (approx. 70,800 km)
- Country of registration: France
- Roadworthiness / inspection: exempt
- Technical specifications: 4.7-litre (288 ci) inline eight-cylinder petrol engine, three-speed manual gearbox, 6-volt electrical system
- Documents: French collector registration document, invoices for the 2020 restoration, period brochures
The detail
- Body repainted in its original Packard blue in 2020
- Upholstery re-done to original specification in 2020
- Fuel tank, radiator, shock absorbers, steering and part of the electrical system overhauled
- Some small dents, following an impact on a door, as well as a few minor paint chips noted on the bodywork
- This Packard shows only a few minor cosmetic imperfections, including some small dents and a small puncture located inside the left rear wheel-arch area.
- Small puncture in the left rear quarter panel/wing, visible on the inspection report
- Speedometer needle loose, as noted in the inspection report (to check: it’s unlikely to be a tachometer; 1949 Packard Eight models generally weren’t fitted with one)
- An exhaust-related issue is noted in the inspection report, although its cause hasn’t yet been identified
- Fuel filter inspection recommended
- A spare carburettor is included with the car
- The seller states that the car drives extremely well
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to Car & Classic’s general conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, meaning that consumer rights arising from European consumer-protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s general conditions.
✓ We require that non-refundable fees are paid if you are the successful high bidder or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and general conditions for the specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “sold as is”, on a “take it as you find it” basis and with no warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only, and it is customary to arrange a full vehicle inspection prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer’s deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or bid price, depending on what’s specified in the listing.
✓ We want the transaction to run smoothly, just like you do, which is why UK-registered cars and motorcycles listed on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to confirm they have no basic insurance database markers for damage or theft, and that they are not subject to a financial charge, so you can bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are registered as written off following a total loss incident at the time the listing is placed on Car & Classic and we provide category labels for write-off (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status, and it is always useful to carry out a full vehicle history check before making an offer.
✓ Buyers are responsible for collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. If you’d like, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can assist you. For more details and to speak with the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.
