Packard

More about the book

In the rich history of the American automobile industry, one name stands out: Packard. For years, the Packard Motor Car Company produced vehicles that were regarded as the finest, offering a diverse lineup of sedans, coupes, convertibles, and limousines, along with an extensive range of Custom coachwork. Packard was not the most expensive brand—Duesenberg held that title—nor the fastest, as Stutz often claimed that honor. However, Packard earned universal admiration for crafting luxury cars that were fast, sleek, stylish, quiet, durable, and reliable. They combined all the attributes luxury buyers desired into one exquisite package, built with pride and exceptional quality. Renowned for its legendary engineering, Packard was managed as one of the best-run businesses globally—solid, profitable, and dependable. The company's stock was highly coveted, and its management was widely respected. Often described as cars "built by gentlemen for gentlemen," Packards dominated the luxury market from the 1920s to the early 1950s, leaving Cadillac and Lincoln struggling to keep up. This book by Patrick Foster chronicles the rise and fall of this iconic marque, detailing the remarkable cars it produced and the legacy it established.