In 1953, Packard was a year away from merging with Studebaker to stay afloat. Despite their financial issues, Packard managed to partner again with Henney Motor Co. to build 100 stretch limos based on the restyled Clipper line of automobiles. We’re told this edition is a “barn find” from Indiana that starts up, but no mention is made as to how close to roadworthy the limousine is. From Lake Wales, Florida, a dealer offers this tidy project here on Facebook Marketplace for $6,100 OBO. Thanks for the “big” tip, Rocco B.!
Packard managed a restyle of their full-size luxury cars in 1953. Because of the company’s reputation and focus on high-end automobiles, the Packard was a natural for use as a limo. Packard turned over 100 of their cars to Henney Motor Co. for the conversions, a business they had been in since 1927 (but would get out of in 1954). The Henney limo had expanded interior dimensions, generous chrome trim, and opulent appointments. Under the hoods resides Packard’s 327 cubic-inch “Thunderbolt” flathead straight-8 (180 hp) backed up by a column-shifted 2-speed Ultramatic automatic transmission.
According to the seller, this Packard has had at least three owners. While it’s in Florida now, it previously lived in Indiana and may have been holed in storage for some time. From the photos provided, there seem to be no glaring issues with the body, paint, and interior. It may have been well-cared for during its 85,000 miles accumulated to date.
The seller refers to the limo as a project car without indicating what work is needed. Since it “starts up well”, perhaps it has issues moving about or stopping (we don’t know). We’re told it needs a restoration, but is that really the case? Maybe whatever doesn’t work just needs fixing and the car can be put back into service, but what would you do with it? Start a vintage limo service? Use it to haul all the neighborhood kids to soccer practice? We’re told the appraised value is $8,500, so why has the seller discounted it by 30%?
‘Tis a flathead 8. ‘Taint a V.
A flathead straight eight.
Looks like rot on rockers
“Packard managed a restyle of their full-size luxury cars in 1953.”
The restyle was 1951, not 1953, followed by a revamp for 1955 using the same basic shell.
Until I saw Michael Corleone riding in one in The Godfather, I had never seen one of these before.
For an old car with a flathead engine, that’s one crowded engine bay.
Lovely looking car. I’ve seen 1953 Packards before, but I’ve never seen a Packard. If only more photos were posted of the ad for the car.
Just looking at inside car photo I don’t see carpet or door panels. Did I over look something. Outside looks great
Russ,
I’ve owned many Packard limousines, including 1953 & 54 Henney LWB cars.
First, this is a 26th series 7-passenger sedan, body code 2651, not a limo, as it is not equipped with a division window.
Second, these were not based on the Clipper line. All the Packard parts on this car are from the senior [Cavalier and Patrician] line, except the rear bare body half [door post on back]. The body half hails from the Clipper 2-door sedan, as there was no 2-door sedan in the senior lineup. Henney grafted the senior taillights onto the Clipper rear fenders.
Last I heard, an almost identical silver Packard LWB sedan was still in the hands of the original family, who owned a funeral home in Staunton, VA. They used Packards for their funerals, and vowed it would always stay with the family.
Maybe it’s discounted 30% ’cause the seller wants to A) get rid of it and B) feels a fair price will enable someone who otherwise couldn’t afford a collector car. Some folks are more altruistic than others.