It is difficult for us living in this modern age to imagine what riding in the 1910 Packard Model 30 must have been like. Almost certainly it would have been driven by a chauffeur as the wealthy owner would not have been willing to get his hands dirty maintaining it, nor would he want to go through the extensive starting procedure, including the cantankerous hand crank. No, Mr. Industrialist and his family were happy to enjoy the protection of an enclosed cabin in an era when most automobiles were either open to the elements or at best had a folding top with side curtains for windows.

The Model 30 dates back to 1907 and when 1910 arrived its expanding ring clutch was replaced with a dry plate type and shock absorbers became standard equipment. The engine was a 431.9 c.i. four, producing 30 hp at just 650 rpm. There were three forward gears plus reverse in the transmission and with mechanical brakes on the rear wheels only we assume the chauffeur was not inclined to tailgate. So what was it like to ride in one? Well, you can find out by bidding on this Packard at RM's Hershey Auction, being held in conjunction with the legendary AACA Hershey Fall Meet on October 12. It is one of 60 cars being offered from the estate of Helen Swigart.