Quote:
Originally Posted by t walgamuth
The Packard straight eight was a marvel of quiet quality in its day. By the late forties though it was very outdated....that probably contributed to Packards demise.
Tom W
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From the book that I am reading on Packard they did seem to transition to newer technologies after many other manufacturers already had. They were later than many on using multiple cylinders, four wheel brakes, hydraulic brakes, and overhead valves. Yet this is the same company that developed their first V12 in a very short time and introduced features such as the automatic clutch, ride control, and four wheel self leveling suspension. Also, Packard's early power steering and automatic transmissions where more advanced than others. They were not out for performance, but for comfort and durability.
My two Packard friends are passionate about the post war straight eight engine for is quietness, smoothness, and torque.