1936 Packard 120 Business Coupe

ntroduced in 1935, the One-Twenty was Packard's first entry into the mid-priced eight-cylinder car market — a significant departure from the Detroit automaker's traditional focus on luxury vehicles. Named for its 120-inch wheelbase, the car was designed to offer Packard quality at a more accessible price point, and it helped save the company from the depths of the Great Depression. The One-Twenty featured a new 282 cubic-inch straight-eight engine, which was smaller than those in Packard's senior models but still delivered solid performance. While the One-Twenty was available in various body styles (sedans, coupes, and convertibles), the Business Coupe variant was particularly popular among professionals who needed a stylish yet practical vehicle. In 1936, the One-Twenty received several updates, including the introduction of the 120-B specification. This version featured improved styling with a more streamlined appearance and no longer had suicide front doors. The car's front end was refined, and it incorporated independent front suspension (dubbed “Safe-T-Flex") and hydraulic brakes, which were advanced features for the era. The 120 B upgrade also increased engine output to 120 horsepower and included the use of a new circular radiator, accelerator linkage, shift mechanism, and coil springs.