Tom Laferriere

1937 Packard Twelve Coupe Roadster 175 BHP, 473 cu. in. L-head V-12 engine, three-speed selective synchromesh manual transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, rear live axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs, four-wheel vacuum-assisted hydraulic drum brakes. Fitted with its original Packard Vehicle Number plate An impressive and nicely sorted example of Packard’s Twelve-Cylinder Coupe Roadster Accompanied by restoration and service invoices totaling $162,000 from several noted specialists Engine rebuild completed in 2018 by Parker’s Packards Vehicle No. 1039-236 Motor No. 906255AA Following the success of the V-12 Twin Six model offering from 1916 to 1923, Packard reintroduced a freshly-engineered Twin Six in 1932. In order to distinguish the significant engineering differences from the earlier Twin Six, the model was known as the Twelve from 1933 onward. The Packard Twelve of 1937 is highly desired by collectors and driving enthusiasts for its wonderful styling which includes a wonderful combination of stylistic and mechanical advancements. The nicely raked radiator shell is complemented by fenders, headlights, and taillights which have all been nicely streamlined. Additionally, 1937 is the first year that Packard introduced independent front suspension and hydraulic brakes, both of which enhance Packard’s legendary reputation for impressive power and modern driving characteristics. Mated to the 139 ¼-inch 1507 chassis, the Coupe Roadster was one of Packard’s most successful designs which is highly sought after today. According to research by the late historian Dr. Charles Blackman, perhaps as few as 70 examples of the 1507 Coupe Roadster were built. Today perhaps as few as ten of these magnificent cars remains extant. Importantly, this particular example retains its original factory Vehicle Number plate which verifies it as an authentic example, and as of only the 36th example built. This car was originally delivered through Wilshire Motors in Los Angeles in February 1937. The Packard did not travel far from its original locale, as it was acquired from an owner in Los Angeles or Ventura County around 1970 by Jim Brucker, Sr. who is known for amassing a collection of several hundreds of cars which he rented to studios for use in film and television shows. At the time the car was stated to have been unrestored and painted gray. Notably, many of the cars in the Brucker Collection were later famously in his MovieWorld – Cars of the Stars Museum. At the time Mr. Brucker acquired the car, it was rumored to have once belonged to film legend Clarke Gable, a story that has since become part of the car’s folklore. While such tales are now viewed with skepticism, it is a documented fact that Gable had a passion for cars. He was photographed with his Twin Six Coupe Roadster over the years and also owned notable vehicles like the Duesenberg JN and SSJ, a Packard Darrin, Jaguar XK 120, and Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing. A compelling piece of evidence is a photograph from 1937 showing Clark Gable beside a 1937 Packard Coupe Roadster (on file). Additionally, an article in the May 1938 issue of Screenland magazine features Gable driving a 1937 Twelve Coupe Roadster. The car’s history file includes an original copy of this Screenland issue, adding to the intrigue of its provenance. The Packard was sold by Mr. Brucker around the late 1970s to Don Koll of Newport Beach who maintained a small collection of cars. After some years with Mr. Koll, around 1994 his collection was acquired by The Imperial Palace Auto Collection in Las Vegas. It remained with the Imperial Palace until 2002, when it was acquired by Mr. Jeff Guss of New Jersey, from whom the current owner acquired it in 2006. Today, 1039-236 is offered on behalf of the estate of its owner of eighteen years. In his ownership the car judged 100 points at the 2012 CCCA New Hampshire Grand Classic and was awarded senior badge 2849. It was also previously judged at subsequent CCCA events in Massachusetts and New Jersey. Notably, in his care, this Packard received attention from several of the best known Packard specialists on the East Coast, including Chris Charlton’s Classic Car Services; Steve Babinsky’s Automotive Restoration’s, and Parker’s Packards, the latter of whom fully rebuilt the motor in 2018. This car runs and drives excellently with a smooth exhaust note. In addition to a working radio and heater, all the gauges are functioning properly and directional signals have been added for touring. The maroon paint is starting to show slight mellowing throughout but has an overall pleasing appearance, although we note that slightly different shades of maroon on the rumble seat lid. The body panels are well-aligned and the doors open and close perfectly, the rubber seals throughout are also in good condition, and the chrome is in very good condition. The tan leather interior is also in excellent shape, with nice woodgrain, and the black convertible top is complemented by a matching black boot. The car is also accompanied by a color matched metal trunk that is not currently mounted. Since its mechanical overhaul in 2018 it has only been driven 600 miles indicating careful and consistent usage. Accompanied with this Packard is a 2 1/2-inch binder of documents representing the owner’s research notes efforts including correspondence with previous owners; the owner’s diary of driving notes and service notes; CCCA judging sheets; and restoration and service invoices through 2018 amounting to over $162,000. I am honored to present such a rare and exceptional Packard and invite your inquiry and inspection. Located in Smithfield, RI and offered at $285,000. Link for more pictures. https://www.tomlaferriere.com/listings/1937-packard-v-12-convertible-coupe/

I have owned this car for over 7 years and haven't really used it much...even after spending 11K to install a gear vendor overdrive in the torque tube! Yikes! Offered at $59,500

1923 Peerless 66 Speedster – “The Fearless Peerless” Chassis No. 66A604 Engine No. 66-A-604 70 bhp, 332 cu. in. L-head V-8, three-speed manual transmission, solid front axle, semi-elliptic leaf spring suspension, and rear-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 128 in. Vintage speedsters have been produced by enthusiasts on a variety of chassis, but this is one of very few built on the basis of a Peerless, the Cleveland-built car considered one of the “Three P’s” of great American motoring, alongside the famous Packard and Pierce-Arrow. Peerless was renowned in its time for its durable, conservative engineering, reflected in the long-term reliability of its product. Former owner/builder Ivan Jones and his late wife, Audrey, of Littleton, Colorado, spent the late 1970s painstakingly gathering parts for the car from points East and West. Mr. Jones was a car aficionado and skilled craftsman. Inspired by the speedsters produced by Peerless in the teens, they then built this automobile, together, by hand, completing it in 1981. The car is well-finished, with fenders reminiscent of Brass Era performance cars such as Simplex and American Underslung, a 1922-23 Peerless radiator shell, Peerless Model 66 drum headlights, and cream wire wheels, shod in blackwall tires. The interior features two bucket seats, in the manner of the Mercer Raceabout, forward of a large original Peerless-badged oval gas tank with fillers on both ends, wooden storage box, and dual rear-mounted spares. All components except for the body panels are Peerless, with the seats and teak dashboard being Mr. Jones’ own creations. The windshield frame was cast from a wooden prototype made by Mr. Jones. He even went so far as to shoot the elk that donated its hide to the seats, lovingly upholstered by Mrs. Jones. Power is supplied by a 1923 332 cu. in. Peerless V-8 and three-speed transmission, on the original frame, all acquired after years spent powering a sawmill in the Midwest. Faux Side exhaust emerges from the right side of the hood and disappears under the body, a touch reminiscent of period Grand Prix cars as well as other performance cars of the era. Current owner added a gear-vender overdrive for comfortable cruising speeds. Ivan and Audrey Jones subsequently traveled the United States with the speedster that they dubbed “The Fearless Peerless.” Together the trio enjoyed several tours with the Veteran Motor Car Club of America. Among its duties was leading the parade lap for Indy drivers at the Denver Grand Prix in 2006, driven by longtime friend Jimmy Aretakis. It was also well-known in print, appearing on the cover of the May/June 2002 issue of the VMCCA magazine,The Bulb Horn. There are few more distinctive, fun vintage speedsters than this car – a truly one-of-a-kind creation, with robust, well-proven performance and bodywork crafted with love and care. It is genuinely thrilling to drive and ready to add more adventures to its long history. Offered at $59,500 and located in Smithfield, RI https://www.tomlaferriere.com/listings/1923-peerless-66-speedster/ Video:

This Jaguar X140 is very well sorted and ready for immediate touring upon arrival in your driveway. Nothing beats open air motoring. I am really digging this car!

1947 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible Coupe Chassis No. 8423605 In August 1945 Cadillac phased out World War II production of tanks, self-propelled gun carriers and carloads of precision parts for Allison aircraft engines and in just two months resumed production of civilian cars for a starved market. Their design was carried over from the truncated 1942 year but that year had marked an advanced and distinctive styling change from Harley Earl and Bill Mitchell. Elongated ovoid fenders extended back into the doors and were mimicked in the rear fenders that accentuated the Cadillacs’ length, giving it futuristic aerodynamic styling that continued in skirted rear fenders. It translated well to postwar sensibilities. 1946 and 1947 Cadillacs continued the design theme and Cadillac sold every car it could build to a car-starved market. This 1947 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible Coupe has received a thorough, meticulous restoration to like new condition. Its Lotus Cream paint is a tribute to its painter’s skill and complements the coachwork artisans’ skill at matching panel fits with precision and alignment. The beige leather upholstery and interior trim is tight, straight and spotless, complementing the beige cloth top. Power comes from Cadillac’s proven 346 cubic inch 150hp V-8 engine. First introduced in 1936 it was immeasurably enhanced by development during World War II for tanks and this car benefits as well from Cadillac’s experience with its 4-speed Hydra-Matic transmission in the same wartime vehicles. Power steering and an electric fuel pump have been added to facilitate modern driving and reliability. The engine compartment is restored to correct factory appearance with neat wiring and factory-style plumbing. It is fully equipped including dual GM logo spotlights, the correct fender skirts, sombrero wheel covers, radial wide whitewall tires and a pushbutton radio. The “Hydro-Lectric” power door windows operate flawlessly. They are complemented by a hydraulically operated power front bench seat. The power top is also hydraulically operated, works correctly and fits tightly. Notably, all the body and window seals are fresh and the windows fit snugly to the doors, rear quarter and the top. The chrome is bright and fresh and the stainless steel bright trim is highly polished and gleams like chrome. The dashboard, control knobs and gauges are crisp, sharp and readable. The attention to detail is uniformly impressive and everything works as Cadillac intended in 1947. Not surprisingly, this 1947 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible Coupe is a 2021 AACA National First Prize winner and it continues to be an outstanding example in all respects. The V-8 starts easily, runs quietly and pulls strongly while the Hydra-Matic transmission shifts with authority. Handling and ride are improved by the radial whitewall tires and driving enjoyment is enhanced by the added power steering. It is complete with a correct matching spare wheel and tire. Details make the difference, and the details on this 1947 Cadillac are uniformly excellent, a car that will be shown with pride and driven with distinction. Located with me in Smithfield, RI and offered at $89,500. Photography scheduled for March 27, 2024 https://www.tomlaferriere.com/listings/1947-cadillac-model-62-convertible/

1928 Packard 443 Custom Eight Convertible Coupe Vehicle No. 228330 Engine No. 226440A 1928 was a watershed year for Packard, ending production of its successful high production Six in favor of going all-in with its prestigious and long-lived inline Eight. The demise of the Six in mid-1928 brought new features to the Fourth Series Eight with an innovative oiling system that when the choke was applied sprayed a film of oil on the cylinder walls to lubricate the cylinders when cold and during warmup and an oil filter, also new for 1928. And as the Six was phased out a new lower cost line of Standard Eights was introduced priced $500-$600 below the range topping Custom Eight. The Custom Eight was easily distinguished from its Standard Eight counterpart by dual side-mounted spares (the Standard had a single rear-mounted spare) and hood side vent doors instead of the Standard’s louvers. All 1928 Packard Eight's rode on 143” wheelbase chassis and had smaller 20” wheels, wire on the Custom Eight. Power for all Packards came from the proven 385 cubic inch nine main bearing side-valve inline eight engine with 109 horsepower, an engine that had so much torque at low rpm that Packard needed only a 3-speed transmission, countered by four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. This beautiful 1928 Packard Custom Eight Convertible Coupe is an older restoration that was meticulously done and has been consistently maintained to retain its excellent appearance and function. Finished in a pearl white metallic with rich maroon fenders, it has maroon wire wheels with chrome lock rings, wide whitewall tires and dual sidemount spares with strap on rear view mirrors. For modern touring it has been upgraded with a modern overdrive giving it excellent, relaxed performance at today’s higher speeds while retaining its correct period vacuum fuel tank and Packard updraft carburetor. Under the hood this older restored Packard 443 Convertible Coupe is exceptional, clean, tidy and neatly arranged. The chassis and inside of the fenders are maroon to match the body and fenders. The windshield is hinged at the top for ventilation and it is correctly outfitted with Parabeam drum headlights and matching small drum cowl lights. There is a wire mesh radiator stoneguard, Goddess of Speed mascot and Motometer temperature gauge. The top is subtle beige cloth over the roll up door windows in keeping with Packard’s refined image. The interior is upholstered and trimmed in matching maroon leather including the rumble seat and there is a luggage rack at the rear as well as a right side access door to the rumble seat footwell for occasional luggage or golf bags. It starts promptly cold or hot, runs beautifully and has a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment with front-hinged doors for easy entrance and even graceful exit. The lightly creased seat upholstery attests to the limited use this Packard 443 Custom Eight Convertible Coupe has seen since it was restored. Gauges are crisp and clear although the fuel gauge no longer works and the speedometer cable has not been modified to work with the added overdrive (allowing the driver to answer the standard police question, “Do you know how fast you were going?” with an honest, “No”). The chrome on the cowl lights is beginning to show age but the rest of the chrome is very good. 1928 was the height of the Roaring Twenties, celebrating the Jazz Age with flamboyance and enthusiasm, and this 1928 Packard 443 Custom Eight Convertible Coupe exemplifies both the optimism and the spirit of the times with its two plus two sporting coachwork, exemplary older restoration and exceptional preservation. Offered at $98,500 and located in Smithfield, RI. https://www.tomlaferriere.com/listings/1928-packard-443-convertible-coupe/ Tom Laferriere 401-651-2295

If you know me well, you will understand why I love this car. Its unrestored presence, historical provenance and mechanical excellence makes this one of the finest surviving examples of the 8-Cylinder Horch. Offered at $475,000 and located in Smithfield, RI. Additional photos by request. Interesting trades considered. Tom Laferriere 401-651-2295

1955 Jaguar XK140 MC OTS Chassis no. S810902DN Motor no. A62778 The Jaguar XK140 was a natural evolution of the famous XK120. Introduced in 1954 at Earl’s Court Motor show, the XK140 incorporated a number of changes and improvements to the earlier model. Most significantly was increased legroom and higher standard horsepower at 190, with 210 available with fitment of the optional C-Type racing head. There were three different versions of the XK140. Standard cars with the 190 HP engine, single exhaust systems, disc wheels, and rear wheel covers. Next came the “Special Equipment” or SE models with the same engine, but with full dual exhaust system and knock off wire wheels. Also included were twin fog lamps and windshield washers. In the United States, this version was known as the 140M. Finally, the highest-specification SE model equipped with the C-Type head which became known as the XK140MC, as distinguished by an “S” prefix in their chassis numbers. Further, those cars equipped with the optional C-Type head were fitted with a plaque mounted on the passenger side dash, proclaiming that car as a replica of the car that had achieved 141 MPH at Le Mans. In a short production window of slightly more than 2 years a total of 8,936 chassis were built in all performance variations, and made available with three different body styles. First was the DHC (drophead coupe) with roll-up windows and jump seats; next was the FHC (Fixed Head Coupe); and last was the OTS (Open Two Seat Roadster), such as the car offered here, which had no exterior door handles or windows. Open Two Seat Roadster bodies were mounted on approximately 30% of the chassis. The car presented here is the most desirable version of the XK140. As verified by its JDHT Heritage Certificate it is a true XK140MC OTS Roadster, the highest-specification offered with the more desirable and sporting coachwork. Originally delivered through Max Hoffman of New York in February 1955. It is offered from a 51-year ownership, having been purchased in July 1972 from Richard Willard of Leominster Massachusetts by the current owner’s husband as a Mother’s Day gift. The car was driven regularly as a summer car through the 70s, 80 and 90s, and in 2010 the owner made the decision to change the factory colors of black with red interior to the current blue on blue which displays quite well. Currently fitted with a replacement engine A62778 with “C” Type head G2934-8S. However, most importantly the original, rebuildable “C” head is included in the sale of the car. It is fitted with its original identification plate and body number tag. Also installed on the car are chrome XKE wheels which were an aesthetic decision by the current owner; the original XK140 painted spoke wheels are also included in the sale. Recent sorting includes a tune up, brake job, fluid change and over 400 miles of driving. This car additionally comes with a soft top, tonneau cover, side curtains, owner’s manual, shop manuals, and a complete set of documentation including the aforementioned Heritage Certificate as well as invoices spanning over 50 years of ownership. https://www.tomlaferriere.com/listings/1955-jaguar-xk140-mc-ots/ Offered at $85,000 and located in Smithfield, RI. Interesting trades considered. Tom Laferriere 401-651-2295

1931 Chrysler CG Imperial Close-Coupled Sedan MOTOR NUMBER: CG1978 BODY NUMBER: 340 SERIAL NUMBER: 7800958 Model CG. 384.8 cu. in. eight-cylinder L-head engine, four-speed manual transmission, solid front axle and live rear axle with 3.81:1 gears with semi-elliptic leaf springs, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 145″ Chrysler’s CG Imperial of 1931 was renowned for its excellent, well-engineered chassis and drivetrain, which combined with a fine straight-eight engine to produce a remarkably modern driving experience for the era. Like many of its competitors, the model was offered in a range of body styles, all of them exceedingly well-proportioned and attractive. Few were more so than the close-coupled sedan, Chrysler’s name for what other automakers termed a sport sedan or club sedan. With the doors moved close together and no rear quarter windows, it was a comfortable, elegant four-passenger closed car, that looked as terrific then and it does now. Collectors favor such coachwork among the CG Imperial styles for CCCA CARavans and other touring events. You are looking at a beautiful, well loved and maintained Chrysler CG with 66,000 original miles. Runs very well and hitting on all 8 cylinders. There are no signs or history showing any motor work done. The exterior paint (in its original colors) has been maintained throughout its life with some paint work as needed. Chrome is original. The interior is all original and in fantastic condition, a testament to the care this car received for the past 92 years by its previous care takers (most recent previous owner was Joe Morgan). Doors close solidly and have great lines. What a comfortable car for the driver…something seldom seen in 30’s cars. I had to move the seat up some and I am 6′ tall. Passengers are comfortable in the rear with lots of leg room. New wiring harness, although some lights not working Recently serviced fuel system (carb. fuel pump and tank coating) Starts easily hot or cold. Electric fuel pump added. Drives well, however new tires would certainly be in order as the car gets a little nervous at 45MPH All gauges work, good oil pressure, cool running, charging (but not great output) It’s time for the next steward to keep this car going for the continued generations to come and we are open to reasonable offers. Located in Smithfield, RI and offered at $65,000. All photos at the link: https://www.tomlaferriere.com/vintage-automobiles/?listing-type=automobiles

This is now sold. Thank you all the interest.

In 1935 GM introduced the first generation Chevrolet Suburban as a heavy-duty, steel-bodied wagon built on top of a half-ton truck chassis. Also known as the Suburban Carryall, the model came equipped with a two-door body style, a feature that would last until the late ‘60s, as well as an inline six-cylinder “Stovebolt” engine producing 60 horsepower. The eighth generation Suburban debuted for the 1992 model year replacing the seventh generation which had lasted 18 years. It featured more modern styling and an independent front suspension for a somewhat more comfortable on-road ride. Added as an option in 1997 to the 3/4 ton version of the Suburban was Vortech 7400 L29 454 which produced 290 hp @ 4,000 rpm with 410 lb/ft of torque @ 3,200 rpm. Featured here is an extremely clean, one owner special ordered for towing 1998 Suburban 2500. Heavy duty tow package. It has the optional L29 454 engine. Blue/Silver with factory graphics and running board package. Seating for 8 with removable third row seating. Used for 25 years to trailer high end antique cars from show to show. Lovingly maintained by the same garage with 22K in maintenance receipts from 1995 -2022, although the AC is not working. 140,000 miles, CARFAX available. Maybe you have seen this Suburban at a car event. Located in my building in Smithfield, RI and offered at $9,500. https://www.tomlaferriere.com/listings/1998-chevrolet-suburban-2500/

I’ll take it. 😀

Maybe 300 miles, maybe 500. It's unknown exact miles as the car really was never driven until now. I am unclear on this DOT code for age.

These were take offs from a correctly restored 1967 Cadillac Convertible. Owner wanted different tires. There are 5. Will delivery to Hershey. $800 P235/75R15

1955 Packard Caribbean Vehicle No. 5588-1314 Series 5580. 275 bhp, 352 cu. in. overhead-valve V-8 engine, Ultramatic automatic transmission, front and rear torsion bar self-leveling suspension, and power-assisted four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 127 in. Considered by many to be the last great Packard, the 1955-56 Caribbean continued the original Caribbean’s tradition of a limited-production convertible in unique trim, featuring almost every imaginable accessory and the buyer’s choice from a wide roster of stunning three-tone color schemes. Intended as Packard’s competition to the Cadillac Eldorado and the forthcoming Continental Mark II, it was every bit the equal of both cars in luxury, style, and swift V-8 performance. Further, it offered several interesting features unique to the most prestigious Packards, including Torsion-Level Ride, with the front and rear suspension joined by long torsion bars that automatically adjusted under load to level the car. This provided exceptional ride quality, the finest of any American automobile of the era. The 1955 Caribbean was an extremely rare automobile, with only 500 examples built – all of them convertibles. One of Packard’s claims to fame in 1955 was an inventiveness with color hue names that has seldom been equaled. This example of the Caribbean was delivered in White Jade, Fire Opal, and Onyx, and to this day retains much of its original paint. The color-coordinated leather interior has been properly reupholstered as-new, in genuine leather and to the original patterns. As part of a large and prominent collection of vintage Packards owned by a lifelong aficionado of the marque, the car has been kept in excellent working order over the last 40 years of ownership, including being driven long-distance to Packard shows all over the country. Extremely well-sorted mechanically, it starts easily, hot or cold, and once on the road has excellent braking, the brakes having been rebuilt in current ownership. All lights work with the exception of the interior light on the convertible roof rail; all power windows are also operational from both their master switch and individual switches. The power top engages in both directions but struggles to move. Both heaters, the radio with its dual antennas, the windshield wipers, all the dashboard gauges, and even the Torsion-Level Ride suspension are all fully functional! The consignor proudly notes that this Caribbean even retains the original pair of four-barrel carburetors and the original air cleaner, both of which are often found to have been removed from these cars over the years. An excellent Caribbean to drive and enjoy, this is a wonderful, properly sorted and functional example of the last great Packard, in iconic colors and with a fine history. Located in Smithfield, RI and priced at $34,500. View the listing and additional pictures here: https://www.tomlaferriere.com/listings/1955-packard-caribbean-convertible/