By the summer of 1930 it was clear that the worldwide economic downturn, though not yet dubbed the “Great Depression,” was no passing panic; luxury automakers were sure to feel a serious pinch.

Despite these headwinds, Packard—unwilling to compromise on quality—introduced some its finest offerings yet for the 1931 model year.

Debuting on 14 August 1930, the DeLuxe Eights represented the crème of the new Eighth Series crop.

With the racy 734 Speedster of the previous year discontinued, its engineering refinements were applied to the new DeLuxe Eights—notably larger intake and exhaust ports and a three-piece intake manifold, which featured a cylindrical chamber to preheat the mixture.

Consequently, these smooth-running 384-cubic-inch inline-eight engines produced a punchy 120 horsepower.

Further changes included larger hubcaps, three-spoke steering wheels, and deeper sweeping fenders with plain bumper clamps.

Four-wheel mechanical brakes and front and rear semi-elliptical suspensio...