1934 Packard V12 “Myth” Custom Boattail Coupe

The idea for the car was sparked by the lack of a boattail coupe among the LeBaron-bodied Packards of the Classic Era, prompting Fran Roxas, a renowned restorer and coachbuilder, to embark on the epic project. Strother MacMinn, a former head of the transportation department at the Art Center College of Design, was commissioned to create line drawings for the car. However, it took some time for the drawings to be realized due to Roxas’ workload. Scott Knight, a highly respected fabricator and coachbuilder, along with his son Dave, undertook the chassis and coachwork project, utilizing modern computer-based technology to produce stunning all-steel custom bodywork, eliminating the need for traditional body bucks. They fabricated various chassis components, and the suspension components were traditional Packard-type items, except for the dropped tubular front axle and modern four-wheel disc brakes.

For power, the Packard V12 engine was enlarged from 445 to 500 cubic inches, complete with a custom intake manifold mounting three dual-choke Weber carburetors and custom-built exhaust headers. A pair of finned aluminum high-compression cylinder heads was built especially for “Myth” using an original set of Packard V12 high-compression heads as a pattern, giving the engine a remarkable sound similar to a Ferrari V12. To handle the powerful engine output, a modern GM 4L60E four-speed automatic overdrive transmission was expertly mated to the Packard V12.

The boattail coupe’s design is true to the original MacMinn drawings, complete with modern flush headlights and tiny taillights, customized bumpers and Packard grille shell. The low-cut and split windshield was custom-built, inspired by LeBaron designs from the 1930s. The stunning exterior finish features 2008 Lexus Tiger Eye Mica and 2005 Bentley Orange Flake Metallic, providing a dash of sporting Classic Era-inspired flair.

Inside, the “Myth” is similar to a blend of 1930s Bugattis, 1950s GT cars, and modern ultra-luxury sports cars, with some Packard components added. The 1934-vintage Packard dash panel has been modified, with a jewel-like insert housing Stewart-Warner gauges. The car features a leather-wrapped, 15-inch banjo-style Packard steering wheel and a console-mounted floor shifter. Leather-covered bucket seats, an AM radio, power windows, a Duesenberg-style chronograph, and a set of custom-fitted luggage round out the purposeful yet elegant interior.

Despite its Classic Era design origins, the “Myth” has impressive drivability and performance capabilities, making it a truly unique creation.