Image of 1949 Packard Custom Eight, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Unveiling the Prestige of the 1949 Packard Custom Eight

The 1949 Packard Custom Eight stands as a testament to the grandeur of post-war American automotive design. Born from the prestigious Packard Motor Car Company, this vehicle emerged as a beacon of luxury and sophistication in an era that was just beginning to embrace opulence on wheels. The Custom Eight was not merely a car; it was a status symbol, representing the pinnacle of comfort and elegance for the discerning motorist of its time. Among its many accolades, it is perhaps most notable for introducing the Ultramatic transmission, Packard's own automatic gearbox that set the stage for future advancements in automotive convenience.

Design and Innovation: A Harmony of Style and Substance

The 1949 Packard Custom Eight was a marvel of design, boasting an imposing silhouette with fluid lines that exuded motion even at a standstill. Its chrome-laden grille, affectionately known as the 'ox-yoke', was flanked by teardrop headlamps that gave it a face of both elegance and authority. Inside, passengers were enveloped in an ambiance of luxury, with sumptuous fabrics and rich wood accents adorning the spacious cabin. The attention to detail extended to practicality as well; the Ultramatic transmission provided smooth transitions between gears without driver input—a revelation at the time.

Color options for the Custom Eight ranged from stately blacks and blues to more adventurous hues, with Egyptian Sand being a particularly sought-after choice. Body styles included sedans, coupes, and convertibles, but it was the convertible with its power-operated fabric top that captured hearts as the epitome of open-air sophistication.

Historical Significance: A Legacy Cast in Chrome and Steel

The 1949 Packard Custom Eight didn't just transport its occupants; it transported the automotive industry into a new era. It bridged the gap between pre-war conservatism and post-war innovation, influencing design trends with its bold yet graceful presence. The introduction of features like power windows and seats also signaled a shift towards an expectation of convenience in luxury vehicles—a trend that would only grow in subsequent decades.

Performance and Handling: Graceful Might

Underneath its stately exterior lay a 356 cubic-inch straight-eight engine that propelled the Custom Eight with quiet confidence. While not designed as a sports car, it delivered respectable performance for its size, with a top speed that could reach over 100 mph—a commendable feat for such a substantial vehicle. Its ride was smooth and composed, absorbing imperfections in the road with ease while providing passengers with an unrivaled sense of serenity.

Ownership Experience: The Epitome of Classic Luxury

Owning a 1949 Packard Custom Eight was about more than just driving—it was about experiencing every journey as an event. Whether used for daily commutes or saved for special occasions, this vehicle demanded attention and respect. Maintenance required dedication due to its complexity and rarity of parts but owning such a masterpiece made it worthwhile for enthusiasts.

Fun Facts: The Custom Eight's Place in History

The 1949 Packard Custom Eight has graced many prestigious events and has been owned by celebrities throughout its history. While not known for breaking speed records, it set standards in luxury and technological advancements that would influence future generations. Despite criticisms about its size during times of economic hardship, it remained a symbol of success and aspiration.

Collector's Information: A Cherished Classic

Today, the 1949 Packard Custom Eight is a coveted piece among classic car collectors. With production numbers estimated in the low thousands, finding one can be akin to uncovering hidden treasure. Values range significantly based on condition but can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to well over $100,000 for pristine examples. As appreciation for mid-century American luxury grows, so too does the value of this iconic automobile.

Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of the Packard Custom Eight

The 1949 Packard Custom Eight is more than just an old car; it's a rolling piece of art that encapsulates a moment in time when America was redefining luxury. Its combination of style, innovation, and performance makes it an enduring classic that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world. As we look back on this gleaming jewel from Packard's storied past, we're reminded that true elegance never fades—it simply matures into timeless beauty.

1949 Packard Custom Eight Accessory Floor Mat - 12"X17"-AC 32Accessory Floor Mat - made of high quality black rubber with molded original emblem. Also designed to be sewn into new carpets. 12"X17", Each

1949 Packard Custom Eight Accelerator Pedal Pad. 1-7/8" X 9-3/8", Each-AP 16Accelerator Pedal Pad. 1-7/8" X 9-3/8", Each

1949 Packard Custom Eight Door Bumper. 1-3/8" high X 2" wide X 1/2" thick. Each-DB 29Door Bumper. 1-3/8" high X 2" wide X 1/2" thick. Each

1949 Packard Custom Eight Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/2" I.D., 4-1/8" O.D. Each-GF 12Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/2" I.D., 4-1/8" O.D. Each

1949 Packard Custom Eight Hood Corners. 1-3/4" to 2" corner radius-HC 14Hood Corners. 1-3/4" to 2" corner radius. Pad is 3-3/8" long. Pair

1949 Packard Custom Eight Door side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal-LP 40-ADoor side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Universal seal for street rods and customs. Used in Cobra kit cars as door weatherstrip. Per foot.

1949 Packard Custom Eight Tail-light Pads-MP 903-DTail-light Pads. Similar to MP 903-C, but with rounded corners. 3-1/2" wide X 8" long. Pair

1949 Packard Custom Eight Front lower rubber insulating cushion-RP 72-CFront lower rubber insulating cushion. For motor support at timing-gear cover. 2-7/16 in. wide x 3-3/8 in. long. 1-13/16 in. long center hole. Replaces OEM# 300227. Two used per car. Each.

1949 Packard Custom Eight Trunk Bumper. 3/4" O.D., 5/8" I.D. Each-SB 74Trunk Bumper. 3/4" O.D., 5/8" I.D. Each

1949 Packard Custom Eight Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 4-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1949 Packard Custom Eight Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 8-72Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. Used on inner and outer beltlines. Also forms easily for use with sliding quarter windows. 72 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned into two equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.