A 1972 episode of “The Doris Day Show” featured a 1928 Packard 526 Six Runabout.

We are counting down the Top 50 hot rods and street cars of all time that have made an appearance in a television series, or a memorable television episode. Starting from No. 50, and counting down to our No. 1 pick, follow along with our memories, and see where your favorite show lands.

46. The Doris Day Show: 1928 Packard 526 Six Runabout

America’s sweetheart of the silver screen made the leap to her own television series with “The Doris Day Show,” airing from 1968 through 1973. It was a comedic sitcom that banked on Day’s ability to connect with the modern day woman who was working outside the home, and an easy blend of comedy and drama. Our title character, Doris Martin, experiences plenty of mischief, but still comes out smelling like daisy!

Airing on Dec. 11, 1972, the 12th episode of season five titled “The Anniversary Gift,” follows along as Doris, receives a thoughtful present from boyfriend Dr. Peter Lawrence (played by actor Peter Lawford), who we met in season four.

Throughout the episode, Clara breaks down (a lot), providing comedic laughter and familiarity as Doris experiences first-hand the stresses that come along with owning an antique car.

Doris loves the old gal, and sells her only other operational car so that she can drive it daily. Unfortunately, this plan backfires. With more tow time than road time, Doris misses important appointments, adding to the strife of keeping her busy job as an associate editor at a magazine. Even Sam the mechanic (Dick Van Patten) is doubtful he can cure what ails the classic.

Brief History Of The Packard 526

There were 28,336 Packard 526 Six convertibles produced in 1928, making the vehicle on The Doris Days Show an extremely rare classic. Known as a Runabout, it had a wheelbase of 126 inches, and was propelled by a straight-six L-head engine mated to a three-speed transmission. Displacement is said to have been approximately 289 cubic-inches with an achieved horsepower of 81.

Although 1928 was the final year for the single six engine configuration, other amenities that came as standard equipment on all Packard models of the era included four-wheel brakes, chassis lubrication system, and pedal activated stop light, among many others. In advertising and promotional efforts, Packard touted this model as one that offered “beauty, distinction, comfort, long life, economy, and safety.”