Ron Pratte Classic Car Preview: The Outliers

January 8, 2015

1912 Packard Sightseeing Bus

Once part of the grand Otis Chandler Collection, this 1912 Packard ATD sightseeing bus was fully restored in 2001 and featured twice at the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, CA, and used to transport dignitaries at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. A stunning example of early automotive engineering, all components and systems have been meticulously refurbished to pristine condition. The woodwork, canopy roof and extensive brass fittings are beautifully polished and finished in Packard Blue with gray accents. Originally thought to have been purchased by the U.S. Army, its five rows of passenger seats accommodate up to 42 passengers, which made it ideal for its early service as a sightseeing bus at Yosemite National Park. When control of Yosemite passed from the Army to the National Park Service in 1919, a gold prospector purchased the bus to show would-be investors around prospective mine sights. Power comes from a massive 432cid T-head gasoline engine coupled to a 3-speed manual transmission. Dual chains deliver the power to the rear wheels, which are fitted with fresh solid rubber tires. Extras include a brass gong to summon park visitors for departure, a large cowl-mounted “Solar-Clipse” brass lamp powered by acetylene and a dash-mounted Sterling clock. This is the only known survivor of its type.

Photo:Barrett-Jackson

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