The 1920 Packard 3-35 Twin Six Transformable Town Car by Fleetwood was sold for $145,600 USD at Sotheby’s auction, and it has an interesting history linked to the wealthy family of radios, Atwater Kent. The car was ordered by the Atwater Kent family in 1919 and delivered in 1920, with a specially prepared chassis nine inches longer than the standard model. This unique design featured a higher and longer hood, rubber-encased bumpers, a convertible top, and luxurious details like sparkling varnish, drum headlamps, and disc wheels.
According to Automobile Quarterly Volume 19, Number 3, in 1981, this Packard car was considered one of the “Five Great Packards.” The car was reportedly seen in only the best places and known as the “haughtiest car in all Philadelphia.” George Wendling, a former Fleetwood employee turned early automobile restorer, reportedly saw the car and had fond memories of it. It is believed that the car was featured at the 1920 New York Auto Salon before it was delivered to Atwater Kent.
The car’s engine number was listed as an early replacement and was owned by Martin L. Schaffer of Lafayette Hills, Pennsylvania, in 1954 and 1961. The car was then acquired by Stanley Tarnopol, a Philadelphia furrier, who owned it until at least 1975. Tarnopol reportedly tried to break loose a car that stubbornly escaped his grasp by offering the owner’s lady her choice of stole or coat from his stock. In 1972, Tarnopol drove the car from Boston to New Orleans. The car has been part of the present collection for some three decades.
Despite its age and minor checking on many panels, the Packard remains in running and driving order, retaining its original restoration of rich black lacquer with red-orange wheels. The car’s wool cloth upholstery and rich woodwork of the rear compartment are still charming, and all the doors still open and close well. The car would make an excellent addition to any collection of Packards or distinctive American coachwork.
During the Monterey Car Week 2022, Kristina and a friend named Fred visited RM Sotheby’s at the Monterey Conference Center to view some fantastic cars at their auction preview.
Posted by a beautiful view on 2022-12-02 00:24:33