In 1913 my maternal grandmother was 13 years old, lived in Pittsburgh and had been in America 4 years. She emigrated from Dortmund, Germany with her family. When this car was new, she was working for H J Heinz putting pimentos into olives. Motor on, Jay!
In 1912 my paternal great grandfather was 12 years old and had been living in Cleveland for 5 years. He emigrated from Warsaw Poland and worked for HG McGregor putting wheels on miscarriages. Therefore, motor on Jay!
There seemed to be a whole lot more pride in the design and construction of these things than there is now. Cars were as much works of art as they were practical, inside and out!
Yes it is a beauty . The american Waltham watch company produced watches better than the Swiss.The Swiss made them one at a time so there was no way to interchange parts . We taught the Swiss line production and they gave us the over coil hairspring.
@@tonyaxeman4381 What a lovely and insightful comment: Modern watchmaking is a american invention, and was introduced to Switserland by IWC ( = International Watch Company ) that still exist in Schaffhausen - not in the traditional watch industry regions. as Mr. Jones - the founder was not welcome there, he was seen as a usurper of the traditional cottage industry watchmaking was still at that time....The over coil hairspring is an invention by the genial Louis Breguet, who was french, but did take refuge in Switserland to escape the madness of the french revolution...
The more I watch this channel, the more I respect Leno and the amazing amount of automotive history and knowledge displayed. This is an amazing example of a historic car. The engine is just incredible to behold, and nowhere but here can you see it upclose. The love, care and, frankly, wealth to keep these astonishing examples of automotive history running and pristine shows. What an amazing car collection, Mr. Leno. Bravo.
Huge Packard fan here. Thanks to Mr. Leno for his part in restoring these wonderful machines and works of art. Thanks for the opportunity to see this beautiful automobile and the historical aspects of this particular car!!
I'm fast becoming a *Jay Leno's Garage* fan. His *"old girls"* are exquisitely restored and his commentaries are insightful, educational and a delight to listen to. Thanks so much for the great nostalgia Jay!
I am so impressed with Jay's knowledge about cars.. I knew he was an avid collector but not everyone who collects knows much about what they're collecting other than re-sale value. I also loved that Jay just talks normal and conveys his passion without the need to 'entertain' with jokes or background music, etc.. as if performing. A very cool side to Leno I never saw before, and a beautiful 1911 Packard
The people that sold this ‘11 and the ‘13 Packard beside it are customers of mine. They were gifted these cars when her father passed away, he had purchased the cars from the original family who purchased the cars new! The story that I was told by the people who sold these cars to Jay was that the cars were not in great condition when Jay purchased them. They had only driven the 1911 Packard a few times but due to limited brakes and speed they were scared to drive the cars on the main roads. Her father who gifted the cars to her upon his death drive the car extensively and it was actually his Wife’s car and she drove it cross country on a tour from the East Coast where we live! Great story, I enjoyed hearing about the history of the cars and seeing the end result from Jay and his team’s hard work!!
I got a laugh out of the old car salesmen talking about how cars, even Packard, back in the "old days" were better and considered the newer ones crap. Some things never change.
Likely Conan fans that really have it in for Jay over The Tonight Show. It's not really Jay's fault that Conan fans didn't watch him on TV. They watched him online. No TV viewers, no TV ratings. All of Jay's videos are posted on Sunday's at 9:00 pm Pacific time. There are immediately down votes on each one. Some people are subscribed to his channel just so they can vote videos down right away. That's the level of animosity with some of those guys.
I can not thank you enough Jay. This really is the best show ever made. We would never see these kind of unbelievably beautiful cars, if you didn't share your knowledge and passion with us. And no way we would ever see cars like this ON THE ROAD! The history is very interesting too, JLG has the best history lessons. Simply amazing Jay, thank you a million times! What you do for us can not be measured in money.
I wasnt around in that time period (obviously) to compare to what the other manufacturer offerings were. But just from every angle I can immerse myself in 1911 and imagine seeing that roll down the brick road and go "wow....that guy must be RICH!" It looks so luxurious even by todays standards
@@tylerfabish5578 what standards? What do we even do today, that isn't fake and pathetic. Oh that's right, their so afraid of the past, they purposely tell you wrong information. Such as how you said down the "brick road", when by 1911 most roads that you locate the idea of brick toward, were already paved since anywhere from 1891 to 1900. Model T inspired highways, never roads. The internet lies to you all, constantly.
@@tylerfabish5578 Well, today's average cars are still the same junk as the average car back then. But this Model 18 of course wasn't average and neither is a modern S-class for example. You always have to pay a premium for quality and an even higher premium for luxury. That's how it always has been and how it always will be.
Jay-you really shine in these videos. I can't thank you enough for doing these. Your modesty and genuine enthusiasm and knowledge is really something awesome. Great stuff.
@@biomed007 what happens to all good things. Despised those punk kids in the 1960s, hot rodders ruining everything and destroying half the automobiles on the road.
These videos are a treasure as is Mr Leno. I dont think he relies on the revenue he gets from youtube so hes doing a wonderful thing called sharing and teaching. This is as close as us peasants will ever get to actually getting to ride in these beautiful mobile pieces of mechanical art.
I was talking to the family that sold the 1911 and 1913 Packard’s to Jay Leno today, they were telling me that Mr. Sumpter at one time owned the car. Mr. Sumpter was very good friends with my Grandmother, my Grandfather was the Mayor of Perryville, MD. at one time and also knew Mr. Sumpter very well. Mr. Sumpter or “Oakie” as my Grandmother called him, was the owner referred to in the letter Jay is reading written to Mr. Oakley “Oakie” Sumpter from Robert V. Brown. What spectacular examples @Jayleno !
Jay, I can’t say enough about your presentations. You make us feel like you are talking right to us like we were right there. I always love too the way you interject a bit of comedic commentary. It’s also great to see your documentation. That stuff is fascinating. I have always had a fascination for cars especially the really old ones. I had my own barn find experience too. When I was 16 in 1963, working in an old shipyard on the Housatonic River in Stratford CT, I found an old Pierce-Arrow way back in a mast and sail shed. I talked my Dad into buying it for $800, as the old salt that owned it was willing to sell. It was a 1931 Pierce-Arrow limo type body with dual spare tire wells, silk shades and even a matching trunk. It had about 22,000 miles on it. We got it towed home and into our big garage. The engine was stuck but with no help from anyone could not free it. I think by this time in 1931 Studebaker owned Pierce. The engine was around 366 cu. in. and about 115 hp. This is my best recollection. It had a Stromberg carburetor and a radiator by Fedders. I went off to college, proceeded to flunk out and when I got home the car was gone. My Dad was upset with me wasting the college money and sold it. End of story. Oh, also it still had the owners manual and the transmission had free-wheeling.
Jay, rather than squirreling away these masterpieces for the occasional delight of the pretentious (and often ignorant) power elite, decides instead to share his collection and his experiences with average joes, historians and gearheads like me. Awesome.
+8 P. : Excellent comment. That's one of the things I like about people like Jay Leno. Even though he's far wealthier than I will ever be, he's willing to share without asking anything in return. And he has some really cool stuff--true works of art. I'm 69 years old now and have always been fascinated by anything mechanical, from autos to aircraft to locomotives to ships. Oh--if you like aircraft and haven't discovered Kermit Weeks yet, check him out. Wealthy but unpretentious, he's completely unselfish and has some great videos. Again, thank you for your comment.
Good grief those are beautiful! I would rather stare at those cars than any painting in a museum, the way the wood reflects the gauges (2:47) is amazing.
It's always a sincerely exotic experience to drive or ride in one of these beautiful vehicles. When you think about how much work went into simply starting them , and maintaining them. It's awesome!
The purchasing power was more back then as well. $4500 would get you a lot of land back then, today $110,000 barely gets you a house in a decent neighborhood.
Depends how you measure it. I think a modern equivalent of $110,000 for a 1911 car like this is too low. I like using measuringworth.com for comparisons like this, and I prefer GDP per capita to the Consumer's Price Index (CPI). Using GDP per capita gives you a figure of around $800,000, which makes sense for an extreme high-end automobile like this. The CPI really undervalues old prices because the goods it is based on have become relatively cheaper over time. GDP per capita gives you a better sense of what each dollar "meant" in the economy of the time.
It is truly wonderful Mr. Leno that you have been able to restore and exhibit these old cars. They are really works of art and should be preserved as a part of history. Thank You so much for your efforts and accomplishments! People will be watching these videos for hundreds of years!
That's some beauty and an unbelievable luxury -- back in the day, and today. Just one stylish, special, classic automobile. Thanks for the pleasure of taking us on a unique ride with you. Great Jay!
I can't imagine what will happen to all these cars when he dies. I hope he's set up some sort of perpetual trust. "The Leno Foundation for the Preservation of the Complete Driving Experience" I don't know of anywhere else in the world with such a varied collection and except for ones currently in the works....they ALL function perfectly as intended. Every part put back in perfect working order. I'd love to sneak mine into his shop, sort of put it in line for his car guys to do their magic on and then sneak it back out somehow. This October will make 29 years I've been driving this 68 Corolla. I'd like to feel what it was like new.
He's definitely the best when it comes to explaining about the old cars and their history. I never cared for him on the tonight show but I love these vids.
I'm grateful Jay shows us so much and doesnt skip over anything! He appreaciates the mechanics and novelty of every moving part! I love seeing stuff like this!
I'm in a wheelchair and disabled because of M.S. and have too much time sitting around and really enjoy your videos... I wish I could visit your shop wherever youre at
In this film I think that Jay's real love of the mechanical world shines through in a really emotionally honest manner. I have really enjoyed his work for some time now.
Love Jay Leno's Garage I remember my dad telling me his first car back in the 1920's was a used model "T" and he was so proud of it because it had an electric starter the only one in the neighborhood.
Most collectors like Jay hide their cars away from the world. Jay though- he shares them with us openly. exposes us to things automotive that we would never have had the chance to experience without him. He's definitely a man apart. I absolutely love that as well off and connected he is, he's still also well grounded and always not only willing- but truly excited to lead us on this crazy journey of automotive history 6 to 35 minutes at a time. Not only his rides- but open invite for anyone with a vehicular oddity, lol. He's the kind of man that probably doesn't realize what a great person he is. The world is truly a better place for having him, and hell-- he's just a car guy!!!
Jay @ 6:30 describes wonderfully, how in the old days the "inner workings" of cars were seen as artistic masterpieces. Your mind will short-circuit from all the gorgeousness of this 1911 Packard.
I always appreciated these old cars, but after watching JLG for some time, now when I walk around the city I feel disgust. 90% of modern cars are plain ugly, tasteless, cheap looking coffins on wheels, no style. Occasionally you see a good looking car, but due to all regulations and mass production, they look soulless and kinda the same.
funky3ddy You are absolutely right! Where did all that wonderful styling, chrome and yes, even some of the outrageous tail fins from the '50s go? I think you already answered my question. Today's vehicles have more plastic and fiberglass than ever. WAKE UP car designers and manufacturers. We, the consumer, demand old time quality!
SSH You have to remember that, to most people today, the car IS an appliance. It's just something you need to conduct the business of getting through the day. Also, when this car was new, it was priced way beyond what the average person could afford. It was a luxury.
Thank you Jay for not being one of those kind of people that just want to hide away in their warehouse off of themselves thank you for sharing I really do appreciate that
i love how jay always compares everything to the f1. It just goes to show you how much of a purest he realy is when it comes to cars and how the f1 is truly the ultimate automobile.
Engineers from the past could really design things well at times. When I heard 1911, I couldn't help but think of the 1911 colt 45 gun that companies are still making today.
The Colt 1911 was the handgun issued to me along with an M-1 carbine in 1964 in the US Army. The .45 was a very old one, perhaps one used in the Philippines. It was a blast, literally.
I’m really glad that Jay has not only the passion but also the money to restore and keep all these historic cars. And then he’s also generous enough to share them with us.
Really big fan of Jay. He seems so genuine and down to earth. Glad he has such passion for his 'old girls'. He does so well restoring and saving these beauties for future generations. Keep it up, Jay. You're a great guy.
Thank you for doing these, Jay! Not many folks have the depth and breadth of info on these amazing machines, and I’m grateful you’re sharing it with all of us.
Quality is what made the Packard such a success. Quality doesn't come cheap. "ASK THE MAN WHO OWNS ONE". Great slogan! They could have had another one.........."THEY'VE ALWAYS BEEN THE GREATEST, NEVER BEEN THE CHEAPEST"! Thanks for keeping them going!
This is so interesting, quiet, informative, like Jay is your friend, talking to you alone. I like the screaming, the giggling when doing a burnout, ripping down the road. But this teaches me about the history of engines, etc.
Most fun I've ever had driving a car was/is on a Rajo-powered Ford Model T speedster: bugs in your teeth, pebbles from passing cars hitting me, the feeling of flying down the road in a chair going 75 mph. Not even a motorcycle compares. Thank you, Jay, for taking us along in your exceptional car.
+Peanutbuterjelly Cars from a hundred years ago had a throttle lever (much like an airplane or a boat) instead of a gas pedal, so there's your cruise control.
It has no feedback loop therefore it's pretty much the same as if you just locked your gas pedal in certain position. By today's standards this technology is regarded as very dangerous.
Yeah, most folks forget that, back in those days, there weren't actually many cars around. You could drive out of town and barely meet others, so sure, you could leave your throttle at 35% engine power and cruise. Cruise control nowadays is not linked to the throttle directly, it's integrated with radar and brakes to maintain a constant speed depending on obstacles ahead. If you wanted just this kind, you could drop a weight on your gas pedal, stick the car in 6th (or 7th, or 8th, depending how many gears you've got) and just take care not to hit anything while driving along :)
I am sure someone thought of that in another car around the time. A simple cable and spring assembly (on the brake pedal ) could cut the throttle off and back to the gas pedal.
Thanks for the extended video, Jay. The history, the documentation, the undercarriage views -- all these things really help viewers "experience" the car on video.
and he wears Rustler jeans. I love that he has no presumption in his appearance. To see him in public, you would never think he is an american icon. but hes just as comfortable in a suit and tie at Pebble Beach, lol. Actually bet hes absolutely dieing to tear that suit off and get back in his well worn super comfy denim!
What I love about Jay's collection . Most car collectors have super cars, and limited editions, that sit in a glass and marble vault to display and barely drive. Jay collects history, with style, class and yes he drives everyone of them. No collection like Jay Leno can even come close
Jay lenno has the love for cars, like a mechanic rather than a rich collector. And the quality of his restorations are all above 1st class. When he stops he will probably have the most comprehensive world wide collection of motoring history. And probaly all of them running and looking like new. I didnt get his comedy but i have total respect since he retired
even with inflation that's amazing... these cars were hand built. like Jay remarked about the fit between the piston and the cylinder bore, each piston was hand-fitted to each cylinder. parts were NOT interchangeable. the closest thing we have to that level of craftsmanship today would be a Rolls Royce, and there isn't as much hand crafting in those even at 4 times the price.
I'm sure you looked that up but those conversions are not as simple as they seem. For instance $4,500 in 1968 is about $45,000 in 2019. I'd imagine the 50+ years from manufacture to '68 would also have inflated by at least ten. In '62 a cheesesteak was 35¢, now $8.
To me the sound a vehicle makes is hugely important, gives it soul and personality. This one makes a classic low pitched throb, very aesthetic. Beautifully restored. Well done to all involved.
This car is absolutely amazing. What a beautiful restoration! I would love to own one myself, because I know that I could endure the huge job of polishing all that awesome brass and aluminum, and oiling the wooden parts! Thanks for sharing this one, Jay!
I know its an old video, but I must say, that engine is a work of art. Jay says that no one really looks at an engine and gets excited.... I am the weirdo that still does. I have a lowly 1992 Honda Civic DX sedan. Nothing special to anyone, but she is special to me. I am rebuilding the car from the ground up because she fits my budget. I pop the hood with the engine running, and I will stand there, just watching it purr away, listening for any odd noises or misses. I check my fluids before I leave my home, top any off that need it (she leaks a few things, she is in rough, but running/drive-able shape) and I check the spark plugs and distributor cap/rotor about once a month, use non ethanol fuel, replaced the clutch and transmission myself, changed out the head gasket, rebuilt most of the front suspension, deleted the power steering..... my $700.00 beater has become my joy in life. Cars are amazing things, and I love old and, well, really old... can't say I like modern cars nearly as much, they are loosing their souls.
Oh wow look at that, when he reads the letter from the owner it says North East MD at thr top, im 10 minutes away from north east as i speak, very cool
$4,500.00 in 1911 WOW... i went with my Dad in 1973 and he Bought a 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass with AC , AM FM, Radio, Roll up windows, Plain Car, for $3,600 out the Door, it had 300 Plus miles on it, a Demo is what they Called them back then. you Must have to have been a Very Rich back in 1911 to Buy one of those.. AWESOME Car...
Gorgeously restored sweet car, the brass gleams like gold, set against the deep maroon body and richly finished wood. I drove one once, they run with enormous torque from the low lugging engines, almost like running an old Allis Chalmers tractor, but with a body that makes touring feel like you're riding in padded luxury way up high in a movie theater! Thanks for the trip down memory lane Jay, maybe take the show on the road and give some kids rides in the neighborhoods you visit! 🌻🗽🌻
I was so happy when you took the Packard for a drive. Your discussion and sharing the driving experience is invaluable. Really, really glad you shared this.
Boy they certainly did make cars beautiful back then, all the wonderful details on these vehicles just shines. I keep coming back to this channel because I can find nowhere else where old cars such as these are shown in such intimate detail. I have to say thanks again Jay.
"Ask the Man Who Has One" an old Packard slogan. Great to see such a piece of art in motion! We have a 1917 Packard Twin Six Clover leaf Roadster, all original, that has a lot of similarities. Belonged to my wife's grandfather, and there have been 24 brides driven in the car. Great job keep up the good work Jay!
In 1913 my maternal grandmother was 13 years old, lived in Pittsburgh and had been in America 4 years. She emigrated from Dortmund, Germany with her family. When this car was new, she was working for H J Heinz putting pimentos into olives. Motor on, Jay!
My grandmom Williams was 28 in 1913. How time flies. lol
Cheers!
my grandmother went from horse-&-carriage to space flight
Is she still alive?
In 1912 my paternal great grandfather was 12 years old and had been living in Cleveland for 5 years. He emigrated from Warsaw Poland and worked for HG McGregor putting wheels on miscarriages. Therefore, motor on Jay!
@@andyman8630Just her?
love the old stuff better then the modern cars,
There's 13 pairs of pants hanging in the closet, wear one of those.
Hey Mustie1 I enjoy your channel as well. I found your name while flipping through the comments!!
There seemed to be a whole lot more pride in the design and construction of these things than there is now. Cars were as much works of art as they were practical, inside and out!
Mustie why aren’t you verified yet. Your channel deserves to be verified.
What a beautiful car...it's like the automotive equivalent to a swiss watch. Just beautiful details everywhere.
Excellent comment.
You hit that right on the money 👍🏻
Yes it is a beauty . The american Waltham watch company produced watches better than the Swiss.The Swiss made them one at a time so there was no way to interchange parts . We taught the Swiss line production and they gave us the over coil hairspring.
@@tonyaxeman4381 What a lovely and insightful comment: Modern watchmaking is a american invention, and was introduced to Switserland by IWC ( = International Watch Company ) that still exist in Schaffhausen - not in the traditional watch industry regions. as Mr. Jones - the founder was not welcome there, he was seen as a usurper of the traditional cottage industry watchmaking was still at that time....The over coil hairspring is an invention by the genial Louis Breguet, who was french, but did take refuge in Switserland to escape the madness of the french revolution...
Beautiful. Yes. It looks like polishing the brass would take a little while. Maybe it is or can be clear coated.
The more I watch this channel, the more I respect Leno and the amazing amount of automotive history and knowledge displayed. This is an amazing example of a historic car. The engine is just incredible to behold, and nowhere but here can you see it upclose. The love, care and, frankly, wealth to keep these astonishing examples of automotive history running and pristine shows. What an amazing car collection, Mr. Leno. Bravo.
Huge Packard fan here. Thanks to Mr. Leno for his part in restoring these wonderful machines and works of art. Thanks for the opportunity to see this beautiful automobile and the historical aspects of this particular car!!
I'm fast becoming a *Jay Leno's Garage* fan. His *"old girls"* are exquisitely restored and his commentaries are insightful, educational and a delight to listen to. Thanks so much for the great nostalgia Jay!
kraftpr totally agree, absolutely amazingly detailed and informative.👍 great comment on your part .
yes, what you all said.
To date 180 guys dont like Swiss watches, noted.
Yes, thank you Mr Leno. I’m a fan too.
I am so impressed with Jay's knowledge about cars.. I knew he was an avid collector but not everyone who collects knows much about what they're collecting other than re-sale value. I also loved that Jay just talks normal and conveys his passion without the need to 'entertain' with jokes or background music, etc.. as if performing. A very cool side to Leno I never saw before, and a beautiful 1911 Packard
ever notice that in these car video's jay always has "hat hair" and his shirt looks like it has been chewed on? jay is a car guy plain and simple.
The people that sold this ‘11 and the ‘13 Packard beside it are customers of mine. They were gifted these cars when her father passed away, he had purchased the cars from the original family who purchased the cars new!
The story that I was told by the people who sold these cars to Jay was that the cars were not in great condition when Jay purchased them.
They had only driven the 1911 Packard a few times but due to limited brakes and speed they were scared to drive the cars on the main roads. Her father who gifted the cars to her upon his death drive the car extensively and it was actually his Wife’s car and she drove it cross country on a tour from the East Coast where we live!
Great story, I enjoyed hearing about the history of the cars and seeing the end result from Jay and his team’s hard work!!
I find myself smiling all the way through these shows. Love Mr Leno's enthusiasm and knowledge
Me too!
+Ross Rossiter I know right? Jay Leno talking about cars just makes me happy!
I got a laugh out of the old car salesmen talking about how cars, even Packard, back in the "old days" were better and considered the newer ones crap. Some things never change.
guardian08527 I loved that story too. Back in the good ole days.
He didnt even say that
filthy troglodytes
An absolutely beautiful machine, they don't make them like that anymore. It's a work of art really, thanks for showing it off Jay.
99 negatives? .... How on earth can someone give this a thumbs down?
Must be envy. ..... Thank you Mr. Leno, for preserving history!
maybe it's the boston accent
It's now at 125 thumbs down. I can only be some young punks that think they are trying to be funny.
Likely Conan fans that really have it in for Jay over The Tonight Show. It's not really Jay's fault that Conan fans didn't watch him on TV. They watched him online. No TV viewers, no TV ratings. All of Jay's videos are posted on Sunday's at 9:00 pm Pacific time. There are immediately down votes on each one. Some people are subscribed to his channel just so they can vote videos down right away. That's the level of animosity with some of those guys.
Young clowns who drive fart muffler imports from the early 2000s.
"This is a great engine, lets take a look at it running" one of the little things Jay does that makes me love this channel
I can not thank you enough Jay. This really is the best show ever made. We would never see these kind of unbelievably beautiful cars, if you didn't share your knowledge and passion with us. And no way we would ever see cars like this ON THE ROAD! The history is very interesting too, JLG has the best history lessons. Simply amazing Jay, thank you a million times! What you do for us can not be measured in money.
I love this guy! Earned his way! Puts 300% effort into everything he touches! Great video!
When you said "lets try and start without the electric ignition" I was like Yes!
He made it look easy. He was as suprised as I was when it kicked right over! 😎
Bowing to the audience for successful crankstart!!! Classic!!!!
@@RighteousReverendDynamite wow, thanks for commenting and letting me see a comment from 11 years ago! Wow
@@CCitis Good Comments should never be forgotten through the mists of Time!
The most beautiful automobile i have ever seen in my life. That is a perfect piece of machinery
This is the most beautiful machine I've ever seen on the internet.. Thanks jay for sharing.
The steering wheel alone, by itself is beautiful.
I wasnt around in that time period (obviously) to compare to what the other manufacturer offerings were. But just from every angle I can immerse myself in 1911 and imagine seeing that roll down the brick road and go "wow....that guy must be RICH!" It looks so luxurious even by todays standards
The steering wheel looks like it came from titanic
The ratcheting noise of the cruise control is so nice.
@@tylerfabish5578 what standards? What do we even do today, that isn't fake and pathetic. Oh that's right, their so afraid of the past, they purposely tell you wrong information. Such as how you said down the "brick road", when by 1911 most roads that you locate the idea of brick toward, were already paved since anywhere from 1891 to 1900. Model T inspired highways, never roads. The internet lies to you all, constantly.
@@tylerfabish5578 Well, today's average cars are still the same junk as the average car back then. But this Model 18 of course wasn't average and neither is a modern S-class for example. You always have to pay a premium for quality and an even higher premium for luxury. That's how it always has been and how it always will be.
Jay-you really shine in these videos. I can't thank you enough for doing these. Your modesty and genuine enthusiasm and knowledge is really something awesome. Great stuff.
Love the old cars they are so much more interesting than modern cars. My father drove a 1938 Packard V-12 Cabriolet Coupe! Wish I had it today!
What happened to it?
@@biomed007 what happens to all good things. Despised those punk kids in the 1960s, hot rodders ruining everything and destroying half the automobiles on the road.
I like the muscle cars and resto-mods as much as most men, but these gems from the early years really are much appreciated.
Beautiful car, beautiful engine. Like a work of art! I love Jay's appreciation.
These videos are a treasure as is Mr Leno. I dont think he relies on the revenue he gets from youtube so hes doing a wonderful thing called sharing and teaching. This is as close as us peasants will ever get to actually getting to ride in these beautiful mobile pieces of mechanical art.
I was talking to the family that sold the 1911 and 1913 Packard’s to Jay Leno today, they were telling me that Mr. Sumpter at one time owned the car. Mr. Sumpter was very good friends with my Grandmother, my Grandfather was the Mayor of Perryville, MD. at one time and also knew Mr. Sumpter very well. Mr. Sumpter or “Oakie” as my Grandmother called him, was the owner referred to in the letter Jay is reading written to Mr. Oakley “Oakie” Sumpter from Robert V. Brown.
What spectacular examples @Jayleno !
Jay, I can’t say enough about your presentations. You make us feel like you are talking right to us like we were right there. I always love too the way you interject a bit of comedic commentary. It’s also great to see your documentation. That stuff is fascinating. I have always had a fascination for cars especially the really old ones. I had my own barn find experience too. When I was 16 in 1963, working in an old shipyard on the Housatonic River in Stratford CT, I found an old Pierce-Arrow way back in a mast and sail shed. I talked my Dad into buying it for $800, as the old salt that owned it was willing to sell. It was a 1931 Pierce-Arrow limo type body with dual spare tire wells, silk shades and even a matching trunk. It had about 22,000 miles on it. We got it towed home and into our big garage. The engine was stuck but with no help from anyone could not free it. I think by this time in 1931 Studebaker owned Pierce. The engine was around 366 cu. in. and about 115 hp. This is my best recollection. It had a Stromberg carburetor and a radiator by Fedders. I went off to college, proceeded to flunk out and when I got home the car was gone. My Dad was upset with me wasting the college money and sold it. End of story. Oh, also it still had the owners manual and the transmission had free-wheeling.
Jay, rather than squirreling away these masterpieces for the occasional delight of the pretentious (and often ignorant) power elite, decides instead to share his collection and his experiences with average joes, historians and gearheads like me. Awesome.
+8 P. : Excellent comment. That's one of the things I like about people like Jay Leno. Even though he's far wealthier than I will ever be, he's willing to share without asking anything in return. And he has some really cool stuff--true works of art. I'm 69 years old now and have always been fascinated by anything mechanical, from autos to aircraft to locomotives to ships. Oh--if you like aircraft and haven't discovered Kermit Weeks yet, check him out. Wealthy but unpretentious, he's completely unselfish and has some great videos. Again, thank you for your comment.
I will look for Kermit Weeks! Thanks.
Good grief those are beautiful! I would rather stare at those cars than any painting in a museum, the way the wood reflects the gauges (2:47) is amazing.
It's always a sincerely exotic experience to drive or ride in one of these beautiful vehicles. When you think about how much work went into simply starting them , and maintaining them. It's awesome!
I love Jay's enthusiasm and insightful stories of the cars he showcases on JLG. The craftsmanship of the Packard is phenomenal.
That $4500 in 1911 was a $110,000.00 Equivalent car in todays money. Whoa! You could buy many houses and land back then for that.
The purchasing power was more back then as well. $4500 would get you a lot of land back then, today $110,000 barely gets you a house in a decent neighborhood.
@@RADIUMGLASS this was a car considered better than the rolls royce.
In 2019 its value was near 122.8k
could have bought 500/1000 acres of land for $4500 back in 1911 I guess.
Depends how you measure it. I think a modern equivalent of $110,000 for a 1911 car like this is too low. I like using measuringworth.com for comparisons like this, and I prefer GDP per capita to the Consumer's Price Index (CPI). Using GDP per capita gives you a figure of around $800,000, which makes sense for an extreme high-end automobile like this. The CPI really undervalues old prices because the goods it is based on have become relatively cheaper over time. GDP per capita gives you a better sense of what each dollar "meant" in the economy of the time.
It is truly wonderful Mr. Leno that you have been able to restore and exhibit these old cars. They are really works of art and should be preserved as a part of history. Thank You so much for your efforts and accomplishments! People will be watching these videos for hundreds of years!
Wow! This is my favorite car you have showcased so far. It is fantastic! Beautiful! Amazing that it was 1911.
I think this is the first and only time I’ve seen jay use the crank starter! Love how everything still works and is original.
Just plain gorgeous! So special! That engine is a WOW! Love the anti theft system. 60mph is amazing. Oil feeds are so cool!
That vehicle is a work of art. Gorgeous all the brass and mechanics
"There goes that crazy Jay Leno in an old contraption again!"
- Jay's neighbors
Maybe the wives, with the dads and kids secretly whispering a slow, "yeah".
That's some beauty and an unbelievable luxury -- back in the day, and today. Just one stylish, special, classic automobile. Thanks for the pleasure of taking us on a unique ride with you. Great Jay!
Another great video. Jay is the best collector and enthusiast on the planet...
+carsbyjeff It is amazing to hear him explain a TON of mechanical and technical stuff. It seriously amazes me the wealth of car knowledge he has.
Agreed...he shares it with everyone!!!....most ...err...rest of em are too selfish :D
I can't imagine what will happen to all these cars when he dies. I hope he's set up some sort of perpetual trust. "The Leno Foundation for the Preservation of the Complete Driving Experience"
I don't know of anywhere else in the world with such a varied collection and except for ones currently in the works....they ALL function perfectly as intended. Every part put back in perfect working order.
I'd love to sneak mine into his shop, sort of put it in line for his car guys to do their magic on and then sneak it back out somehow.
This October will make 29 years I've been driving this 68 Corolla. I'd like to feel what it was like new.
He's definitely the best when it comes to explaining about the old cars and their history. I never cared for him on the tonight show but I love these vids.
carsbyjeff amen
I'm grateful Jay shows us so much and doesnt skip over anything! He appreaciates the mechanics and novelty of every moving part! I love seeing stuff like this!
They don't make things this beautifully anymore
I'm in a wheelchair and disabled because of M.S. and have too much time sitting around and really enjoy your videos... I wish I could visit your shop wherever youre at
Out of all the cars in the world, those Packards look the best to me. I will own one someday.
Go Away
Packard built the best in America, arguably the world's finest.
I still want one.
I've always wanted one. It will never happen, now - these cars all bring way too much money.
In this film I think that Jay's real love of the mechanical world shines through in a really emotionally honest manner. I have really enjoyed his work for some time now.
Love Jay Leno's Garage I remember my dad telling me his first car back in the 1920's was a used model "T" and he was so proud of it because it had an electric starter the only one in the neighborhood.
Most collectors like Jay hide their cars away from the world. Jay though- he shares them with us openly. exposes us to things automotive that we would never have had the chance to experience without him. He's definitely a man apart. I absolutely love that as well off and connected he is, he's still also well grounded and always not only willing- but truly excited to lead us on this crazy journey of automotive history 6 to 35 minutes at a time. Not only his rides- but open invite for anyone with a vehicular oddity, lol. He's the kind of man that probably doesn't realize what a great person he is. The world is truly a better place for having him, and hell-- he's just a car guy!!!
Wonderful car.. Love all the different types of metal finishing on the engine..
It's great to listen to Jay.. Full of information
This is a piece of art, love the brassy look. Hats off the the folks who did the seats, very nice
Jay @ 6:30 describes wonderfully, how in the old days the "inner workings" of cars were seen as artistic masterpieces. Your mind will short-circuit from all the gorgeousness of this 1911 Packard.
I always appreciated these old cars, but after watching JLG for some time, now when I walk around the city I feel disgust. 90% of modern cars are plain ugly, tasteless, cheap looking coffins on wheels, no style. Occasionally you see a good looking car, but due to all regulations and mass production, they look soulless and kinda the same.
funky3ddy
You are absolutely right! Where did all that wonderful styling, chrome and yes, even some of the outrageous tail fins from the '50s go? I think you already answered my question. Today's vehicles have more plastic and fiberglass than ever. WAKE UP car designers and manufacturers. We, the consumer, demand old time quality!
SSH
Sadly, I think you are right.
kraftpr it is safe to say that the general public buys cars like you would buy an appliance
SSH You have to remember that, to most people today, the car IS an appliance. It's just something you need to conduct the business of getting through the day.
Also, when this car was new, it was priced way beyond what the average person could afford. It was a luxury.
This is why I really like Jay and his collection, he actually drives them instead of most museums where they just sit.
Jay, this was one of the most enjoyable videos you've put out here for us. Thank you.
You're welcome. Thanks for watching
What an American treasure Jay is. He has spent his whole life entertaining us, making us laugh, and now sharing his amazing auto collection.
God bless you Jay Leno. Thank you for sharing your hobby and passion.
Cheers!
Thank you Jay for not being one of those kind of people that just want to hide away in their warehouse off of themselves thank you for sharing I really do appreciate that
So in love with this car! If they still made them like this I'd buy stock in Brasso!!
i love how jay always compares everything to the f1. It just goes to show you how much of a purest he realy is when it comes to cars and how the f1 is truly the ultimate automobile.
Engineers from the past could really design things well at times. When I heard 1911, I couldn't help but think of the 1911 colt 45 gun that companies are still making today.
Which is unfortunately, untrue for old cars
Sino Jas go cry harder.
The Colt 1911 was the handgun issued to me along with an M-1 carbine in 1964 in the US Army. The .45 was a very old one, perhaps one used in the Philippines. It was a blast, literally.
Just cant say enough. Thanks for posting this stuff. Thanks for putting these cars out there so regular folks can see them in action.
Looks like a whiskey brewery on wheels ;) really beautiful
but not as tastey
I’m really glad that Jay has not only the passion but also the money to restore and keep all these historic cars. And then he’s also generous enough to share them with us.
Really big fan of Jay. He seems so genuine and down to earth. Glad he has such passion for his 'old girls'. He does so well restoring and saving these beauties for future generations. Keep it up, Jay. You're a great guy.
Thank you for doing these, Jay! Not many folks have the depth and breadth of info on these amazing machines, and I’m grateful you’re sharing it with all of us.
JAY, THE ELECTRIC START CONVERSION DOES NOT TAKE ANYTHING AWAY FROM THE BEAUTY OF THE PACKARD.
Quality is what made the Packard such a success. Quality doesn't come cheap. "ASK THE MAN WHO OWNS ONE". Great slogan! They could have had another one.........."THEY'VE ALWAYS BEEN THE GREATEST, NEVER BEEN THE CHEAPEST"! Thanks for keeping them going!
Keep doing videos jay! Your a smart man. Awesome how you actually drive all these things!
This is so interesting, quiet, informative, like Jay is your friend, talking to you alone. I like the screaming, the giggling when doing a burnout, ripping down the road. But this teaches me about the history of engines, etc.
Wow! It's such a beauty! I could see myself looking at this for hours... (just looking)
Most fun I've ever had driving a car was/is on a Rajo-powered Ford Model T speedster: bugs in your teeth, pebbles from passing cars hitting me, the feeling of flying down the road in a chair going 75 mph. Not even a motorcycle compares.
Thank you, Jay, for taking us along in your exceptional car.
This very old car is a jewel it has pure design Beautiful!
Que hermoso este coche
The car is beautiful
LOVE his humor in actions and comments that suddenly pop up, haha.
You deserve a bow from us, Jay!
cruise control in a car from 1911? There are cars sold in 2015 that don't come with cruise control from the factory
+Peanutbuterjelly Cars from a hundred years ago had a throttle lever (much like an airplane or a boat) instead of a gas pedal, so there's your cruise control.
Eli Malinsky and tractors!
It has no feedback loop therefore it's pretty much the same as if you just locked your gas pedal in certain position. By today's standards this technology is regarded as very dangerous.
Yeah, most folks forget that, back in those days, there weren't actually many cars around. You could drive out of town and barely meet others, so sure, you could leave your throttle at 35% engine power and cruise. Cruise control nowadays is not linked to the throttle directly, it's integrated with radar and brakes to maintain a constant speed depending on obstacles ahead. If you wanted just this kind, you could drop a weight on your gas pedal, stick the car in 6th (or 7th, or 8th, depending how many gears you've got) and just take care not to hit anything while driving along :)
I am sure someone thought of that in another car around the time. A simple cable and spring assembly (on the brake pedal ) could cut the throttle off and back to the gas pedal.
Thanks for the extended video, Jay. The history, the documentation, the undercarriage views -- all these things really help viewers "experience" the car on video.
I hope he writes a biography titled 'Jay Leno: The Denim Driver'.
He wears the same thing everyday as a tribute to his idol pee wee herman
and he wears Rustler jeans. I love that he has no presumption in his appearance. To see him in public, you would never think he is an american icon. but hes just as comfortable in a suit and tie at Pebble Beach, lol. Actually bet hes absolutely dieing to tear that suit off and get back in his well worn super comfy denim!
Shawn Wing They shouldve let him wear his denim for the tonight show
DANG RIGHT!!!
& his trademark tousselled hair. Never dirty, gawd no! But " Stylishly unkempt"
What I love about Jay's collection . Most car collectors have super cars, and limited editions, that sit in a glass and marble vault to display and barely drive. Jay collects history, with style, class and yes he drives everyone of them. No collection like Jay Leno can even come close
Thank You Jay for a wonderful video. You are an amazing man. I love your love of automobiles.
Jay lenno has the love for cars, like a mechanic rather than a rich collector. And the quality of his restorations are all above 1st class. When he stops he will probably have the most comprehensive world wide collection of motoring history. And probaly all of them running and looking like new.
I didnt get his comedy but i have total respect since he retired
4500$ in 1911 = 110,256$ in 2015 (FYI)
even with inflation that's amazing... these cars were hand built. like Jay remarked about the fit between the piston and the cylinder bore, each piston was hand-fitted to each cylinder. parts were NOT interchangeable.
the closest thing we have to that level of craftsmanship today would be a Rolls Royce, and there isn't as much hand crafting in those even at 4 times the price.
I'm sure you looked that up but those conversions are not as simple as they seem. For instance $4,500 in 1968 is about $45,000 in 2019. I'd imagine the 50+ years from manufacture to '68 would also have inflated by at least ten. In '62 a cheesesteak was 35¢, now $8.
$414,000 @ 4.4% compounded annually
To me the sound a vehicle makes is hugely important, gives it soul and personality. This one makes a classic low pitched throb, very aesthetic. Beautifully restored. Well done to all involved.
Thanks Jay. What treasures you have!
This car is absolutely amazing. What a beautiful restoration! I would love to own one myself, because I know that I could endure the huge job of polishing all that awesome brass and aluminum, and oiling the wooden parts! Thanks for sharing this one, Jay!
Always start a hand crank car with your left hand. If that backfired while cranking your wrist would've been snapped back and broken.
I know its an old video, but I must say, that engine is a work of art. Jay says that no one really looks at an engine and gets excited.... I am the weirdo that still does. I have a lowly 1992 Honda Civic DX sedan. Nothing special to anyone, but she is special to me. I am rebuilding the car from the ground up because she fits my budget. I pop the hood with the engine running, and I will stand there, just watching it purr away, listening for any odd noises or misses. I check my fluids before I leave my home, top any off that need it (she leaks a few things, she is in rough, but running/drive-able shape) and I check the spark plugs and distributor cap/rotor about once a month, use non ethanol fuel, replaced the clutch and transmission myself, changed out the head gasket, rebuilt most of the front suspension, deleted the power steering..... my $700.00 beater has become my joy in life. Cars are amazing things, and I love old and, well, really old... can't say I like modern cars nearly as much, they are loosing their souls.
Oh wow look at that, when he reads the letter from the owner it says North East MD at thr top, im 10 minutes away from north east as i speak, very cool
My dad always owned Packards, back in the 40's and 50's. As kids, (all 7 of us) were so proud of Dad in his beautiful cars.
I think you're the only person who can change up a gear when coming out of your garage xD
Pope-Eye Challenge accepted
Pope-Eye What if I do a rolling 3-gear burnout out of the garage?
Watching you drive these old cars from the turn of the century makes me wish I was born then the quality and craftsmanship is truly amazing.
Such a cool piece of history.
$4,500.00 in 1911 WOW... i went with my Dad in 1973 and he Bought a 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass with AC , AM FM, Radio, Roll up windows, Plain Car, for $3,600 out the Door, it had 300 Plus miles on it, a Demo is what they Called them back then. you Must have to have been a Very Rich back in 1911 to Buy one of those.. AWESOME Car...
I would love to be Jay's son!!!
He seems to be just a gods honest good guy. So many people can act that good, then the Jarod in them comes to light...
So right you are!And we `d be brothers then ;-)
Is there a legal way to adopt a father?Mine was crap
Same here,, step too... . Glad those days are long and far gone, lol
So you can inherit all his cars when he passes away? lol
dude if you asked for your birthday he would probably give you one of his cars
Jay is such a wonderful custodian for all these mechanical works of art, his passion and knowledge about the cars is greatly appreciated!
Great old Packard and I thought the 55 I just finished was old
The car just reeks of quality and the highest of standards. Even the sound of it cruising down the road ... beautiful.
looks luxurious
Gorgeously restored sweet car, the brass gleams like gold, set against the deep maroon body and richly finished wood. I drove one once, they run with enormous torque from the low lugging engines, almost like running an old Allis Chalmers tractor, but with a body that makes touring feel like you're riding in padded luxury way up high in a movie theater! Thanks for the trip down memory lane Jay, maybe take the show on the road and give some kids rides in the neighborhoods you visit! 🌻🗽🌻
6:52 If you look to the left there is a nut missing.
Sharp eye!
I see it too, just below the top one!
I thought you meant that Dave guy with the curled mustache and driving cap!
@@charleslindley1596 Cannot stand him! >8^(
I was so happy when you took the Packard for a drive. Your discussion and sharing the driving experience is invaluable. Really, really glad you shared this.
This car reminds me of Brum.
Yes
Boy they certainly did make cars beautiful back then, all the wonderful details on these vehicles just shines. I keep coming back to this channel because I can find nowhere else where old cars such as these are shown in such intimate detail. I have to say thanks again Jay.
Beautiful Car!!!
"Ask the Man Who Has One" an old Packard slogan. Great to see such a piece of art in motion! We have a 1917 Packard Twin Six Clover leaf Roadster, all original, that has a lot of similarities. Belonged to my wife's grandfather, and there have been 24 brides driven in the car. Great job keep up the good work Jay!