The Packard 8 Station Sedan was introduced in 1948 and discontinued in 1950, but despite its relatively short production life it’s remembered as an aerodynamically advanced car for the time that in some respects foreshadowed the popularity of the modern sports station wagon.
Packard called their new model the Station Sedan rather than the more common “station wagon” because they used the same platform as the sedan, with relatively few modifications. The wooden panelling wasn’t part of the load bearing structure as it was on earlier woodies, with the exception of the tailgate which was 100% wood and folded down along with the rear seats to provide almost 8 feet of flat storage space.
With its 130 bhp, 288 cubic inch, L-head inline-8 and 3-speed manual transmission, the Packard Eight Station Sedan was a solid performer by 1948 standards. It rides on independent coil-spring front suspension, rear semi-elliptic leaf-spring suspension, and stops thanks to 4-wheel drum brakes. Inside there’s room for 8 adults to sit comfortably, and the cabin is beautifully appointed with chrome, leather, wooden paneling, and glass.
The model was the brainchild of senior Packard executive and styling icon Edward Macauley, sadly the market for the Station Sedan just wasn’t there. Many of the 1948 models were rebadged as 1949 models, and eventually in 1950 Packard pulled the model from the line-up.
The reason its so rare to find an all-original Packard Eight Station Sedan like this is because the hardwood panelling needed special care, which they rarely received, and the wood could trap moisture against the steel body – a recipe for disaster. The style of the model didn’t become desirable until relatively recently, when station wagons suddenly became cool – and vintage station wagons even more so.
This particular example is well-presented and original throughout, Auctions America have listed the estimated value as between $45,000 and $65,000 USD – although we’ve seen these Station Sedans sell for well over $80,000 in recent memory. If you’d like to read more about this car or register to bid, you can click here to visit Auctions America.
Photo Credits: Ryan Merrill © 2016 Auctions America
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