1939 Packard Henny 1701 A
The 1939 Packard Henny 1701 A represents a fascinating chapter in automotive history, embodying the luxurious craftsmanship and engineering prowess that defined the Packard brand during the late Art Deco era. This particular model is notable for its association with Henny, a renowned custom coachbuilder of the time, suggesting a vehicle of exceptional bespoke quality. While specific production numbers for this exact Henny conversion are scarce, it stands as a testament to the era's desire for personalized and exclusive automobiles.
Coachwork and Design
The 1939 Packard chassis, a robust and elegant foundation, was entrusted to Henny for a unique interpretation of its already sophisticated styling. While detailed blueprints for this specific Henny conversion are not widely available, it's reasonable to assume that Henny would have applied their signature touch, likely focusing on enhancing the car's already imposing presence and opulent detailing.
- Body Style: The "1701 A" designation typically refers to Packard's "Eight" series, often found in various body styles, including sedans, coupes, and formal limousines. For a Henny conversion, it's highly probable that the base was a more exclusive offering, or that Henny modified a standard model extensively to create a custom body. Potential body styles could have included custom sedans with extended wheelbases for added passenger comfort, or perhaps even a unique limousine or formal landaulet configuration.
- Styling Cues: Packard vehicles of 1939 were characterized by their flowing lines, prominent grilles, and an emphasis on aerodynamic curves that were becoming increasingly fashionable. Henny's modifications would likely have amplified these elements, potentially adding:
- Custom Grille: A distinctive Henny-designed grille, possibly with unique detailing or chrome accents.
- Body Trim: Bespoke chrome or polished metal trim along the body, accentuating the car's lines.
- Fender Design: Modifications to the fenders, perhaps more streamlined or with integrated lighting.
- Glassware: Custom-shaped or larger windows for enhanced visibility and a more airy cabin.
- Wheels and Hubcaps: Unique wheel designs or bespoke hubcaps.
- Paint and Finish: While original paint colors would have varied, Henny conversions often featured high-quality two-tone paint schemes or deep, lustrous single colors.
Mechanicals and Performance
The 1939 Packard Henny 1701 A would have been built upon Packard's reliable and powerful engineering. The "Eight" series was known for its smooth-running inline-eight engines, providing a refined and potent driving experience befitting a luxury automobile.
- Engine: The heart of the 1939 Packard Eight was likely the L-head inline-eight-cylinder engine. For the 1701 series, this would have been the 282 cubic inch (4.6-liter) engine, producing around 120 horsepower. This provided ample power for comfortable cruising and effortless acceleration.
- Transmission: A selective synchromesh manual transmission would have been standard, offering smooth gear changes for the era.
- Suspension: Independent front suspension (a relatively new technology for many cars at the time) and a live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs would have provided a comfortable and stable ride.
- Braking: Hydraulic drum brakes would have been employed for effective stopping power.
- Steering: The steering system would have been recirculating ball, designed for ease of use and responsiveness.
Interior and Luxury Appointments
The true mark of a Henny conversion, and indeed any high-end Packard, was the opulent and meticulously crafted interior. Henny's expertise would have been focused on creating an environment of unparalleled comfort and sophistication for its discerning clientele.
- Upholstery: The cabin would have been appointed with the finest materials, likely including rich wool broadcloth, supple leather, or even luxurious velvet. The patterns and stitching would have been executed with exceptional attention to detail.
- Woodwork: High-quality polished wood veneers, such as walnut or mahogany, would have adorned the dashboard, door panels, and other interior surfaces, adding warmth and a sense of bespoke craftsmanship.
- Instrumentation: The dashboard would have featured a clear and elegant array of gauges, including speedometer, oil pressure, ammeter, water temperature, and fuel level, all housed within beautifully crafted bezels.
- Comfort Features: Expected amenities would have included:
- Plush, deeply padded seats.
- Adjustable steering wheel.
- Heaters and defrosters.
- High-quality carpeting.
- Ample interior lighting.
- Potentially a radio, a premium luxury item at the time.
- Passenger Accommodations: In formal body styles, particular attention would have been paid to rear passenger comfort, possibly including fold-out jump seats, extensive legroom, and dedicated amenities.
Significance and Legacy
The 1939 Packard Henny 1701 A is significant as a representation of the peak of automotive luxury and customization in the pre-war era. It embodies the era's fascination with exclusivity, where discerning buyers sought vehicles that not only offered superior engineering but also a unique personal statement. While these vehicles were produced for a select few, they contribute to the rich tapestry of automotive history, showcasing the artistry and dedication of coachbuilders like Henny working in collaboration with iconic manufacturers like Packard. Owning or encountering such a vehicle today is a rare opportunity to connect with a bygone era of automotive grandeur.