In many ways, Packard's 14th series marked a significant turning point for the company. Introduced in 1936 to replace the 12th series (there was no 13thseries for superstitious reasons), the model itself was very much evolutionary. But it marked the end of the line for many signature Packard features such as the 17" wire wheels, ride control shocks, Bijur chassis lubrication and most notably, it was the final year for the legendary 385 cubic inch straight eight engine before the 320 cubic inch unit replaced it. As before, three distinct model lines were available; the Eight, Super Eight and Twelve. All were available in a tremendous variety of body styles and configurations. The Super Eight was the top eight cylinder model and it shared some key features and options from the Twelve, such as the special fluid-filled counter-weight bumpers that smoothed the ride on rough roads. Streamlining was beginning to take hold in American design language, and the styling for the 14th series was tweaked with the radiator tilted back a further 5 degrees, and full, curvaceous fenders wearing bullet headlamps. Just a few short years later, the headlamps would be enveloped within the fenders and the classic era of Packard styling would come to a close. 1936 models remain very collectible for their "last of the line" appeal and beautiful classic-era style.