Renowned designer Richard Teague penned the handsome lines of the Packard Caribbean, using elements inspired in part by the Packard Pan American, a show car that was displayed at the 1952 New York Auto Show. Only 750 examples – all convertibles – were produced in this first year of availability. One of them will be offered by Auctions America on Friday, November 21, 2014, with an estimated price of $90,000 – 110,000.
This Packard is reported to be restored in a “concours quality” manner, in which the paint, interior and chrome are referred to as “perfect.” The current owner has recently invested a further $10,000 into the total “dialing in” of the Packard.
Styling elements include circular rear wheel cutouts with a molding that extends from the front to rear, a distinctive hood scoop, Continental kit and chrome wire wheels with wide whitewall tires. Power brakes and steering are part of the luxury appointments, as is the radio and power-operated top.
The Black paint with black top, plus black and green interior finish add to the elegance. Caribbeans are generally regarded as the most valuable of the post-war Packards. This stunning and rare car powered by a 327-cid, 180-hp inline eight-cylinder engine with a four-barrel carburetor and is connected to an automatic transmission.
