Intended as Packard’s driver’s car, the 734 Speedster was powerful more robust car that outperformed is luxurious counterparts in the Packard range. It’s Speedster name was not descriptive of the body type, but more the high performance nature of the chassis.

Five factory bodies were offered on the 734 Speedster. Runabout with a rumble seat, Boattail Runabout or Phaeton were offered for $5,200. The
Victoria and Sedan bodies cost $6,000.

A redesigned chassis was used for the 734 that used many 6th-series components with custom side rails. It retained the Super Eights wheelbase of 134.5 inches but was more rigid.

The nine-main bearing engine was modified with a ribbed exhaust manifold, vacuum boost pump and a new 45 degree intake that allowed for a hemispherical combustion chamber. An optional 6.0:1 cylinder head used larger vavles to produce 145 bhp @ 3400 rpm

Because Packard didn’t actively promote the model, only 113 cars were made across all body styles.

Many Seventh series cars have been modified to mimic the 734 traits so finding an original example is tough. As early as 1950, Smith Hempstone Oliver created the 734 registry.

1930 Packard 734 Speedster Gallery

See full 1930 Packard 734 Speedster Gallery here

In Detail

submitted by	Richard Owen
type	Series Production Car
built at	USA
production	113
price $	$ 5,200
engine	Inline-8 w/L Head
position	Front, Longitudinal
displacement	6300 cc / 384.4 in³
bore	88.9 mm / 3.5 in
stroke	127.0 mm / 5 in
compression	6.0:1
power	108.1 kw / 145 bhp @ 3400 rpm
specific output	23.02 bhp per litre
body / frame	Steel Body w/Wooden Frame over Steel Ladder-Type Chasis
driven wheels	RWD
front tires	7.00×19
rear tires	7.00×19
transmission	4-Speed Manual
top speed	~160.90 kph / 100 mph

Auction Sales History

1930 Packard Speedster Eight 734 Speedster Runabout 184012 – sold for $165,000 Known history from new. Recent servicing by LaVine Restorations. Scored 388 out of 400 points at The Packard Club National Meet in 2011. Auction Source: 2014 Arizona by RM Auctions

1930 Packard 734 Speedster Phaeton 184065 – sold for $975,000 Among the Most Important American Classics. Splendid Styling Combined with Outstanding Performance. One of Only Five 734 Speedster Phaetons Known to Exist. Well-Documented History and Provenance. Quality Restoration of a Very Original Example. Pebble Beach and Amelia Island Award Winner. Perfect 100-Point Score in CCCA Judged Competition. A Packard Fit for the Connoisseur. Auction Source: 2012 Pebble Beach Auctions by Gooding & Company

1930 Packard 734 Speedster Boattail Runabout 184089 – sold for $506,000 Offered from the Lyon Family Collection; Ex-Harrah Collection. An authentic, original 734 Boattail Runabout.One of the limited few authentic Speedster Boattail Runabouts known to exist. Only two owners in the last half-century. Auction Source: 2011 Monterey Auction by RM