With ample power from the new Single Eight engine introduced in mid-1923 and 350 pounds less weight than the Twin Six it replaced, Packard’s short wheelbase 136 model with lightweight Runabout body came close to being a sports car.

Packard responded to the Eight’s performance – as well as to the pressures of competition – by pairing the introduction of the Single Eight engine with four-wheel brakes.

Ingeniously, it combined expanding shoe service brakes at all four wheels with contracting band emergency brakes on the rear drums.

Using a system of cables and shafts with inherent equalization provisions, the new system was well-engineered and entered production with a minimum of early problems.

The new four-wheel brakes and eight-cylinder engine were enthusiastically received by both the press and the public, a reception that was enhanced by the handsome, elegant, sporting coachwork that came from Packard’s own body shop.

The 234 series Runabout was particularly attractive, featurin...