384.8 cu. in. straight eight

125 BHP @ 3600 rpm

4-speed manual transmission

Mechanical drum brakes

134” Wheelbase

Curb weight 4,250 libs.

$5200 when new

The Packard 734 Speedster series was designed with three things in mind: quality, speed, and style. They were built in Packard’s own new custom body shop located right on the campus of the East Grand Boulevard plant. The successor to the beloved 626 Speedster, the 734 was a low slung machine capable of speeds in excess of 100 miles and hour, a rare feat for its time. The 734 Speedster was offered as a Boattail, Phaeton, Sedan, and Victoria Coupe, with a Roadster body offered later in production. A total of 150 734 Speedsters were produced in all body styles in 1930; the series was discontinued in 1931. It is believed that 39 Speedster boattails were built, of which only 11 survive.

In 1930…

First FIFA World Cup.

George Washington dedicated on Mount Rushmore.

First diesel automobile trip is completed by Clessie Cummins.

Cost of a house: $7415

Average income: $1970

Gallon of gas: $0.10

Average new car: $700