The Caribbean was Packard’s uber-luxury “halo car” from 1953 to 1956. It was a low-production model that had no future once Packard merged with Studebaker in 1954, with Packards becoming rebadged ‘Bakers in 1957 and 1958. This once stellar convertible is no longer a beauty and looks to have been pulled from a barn (leaving its twin behind). Needing a full restoration, this numbers-matching fancy drop-top is available in East Hawkesbury, Ontario, and here on Facebook Marketplace for $13,500 CND (approx. $9,678 USD).
Caribbean styling was based on a 1952 show car (Pan American Packard). In three of its four years, the Caribbean was only offered as a convertible (with a hardtop added in 1956). The 1955-56 cars had fresh styling and a new engine, both committed before Packard and Studebaker pooled their resources. Two-tone and three-tone paint jobs were commonplace. In ’56, the interior had reversible seat cushions, and power was provided by a 374 cubic inch V8 with an Ultramatic automatic transmission. With 310 horsepower, it was at the top of the U.S. power chain.
Only 539 Caribbeans were produced in 1956, and 276 were ragtops. The car was gone in 1957, and the brand after 1958. One of these machines would set you back $6,000 when new, the equivalent of $71,000 today. The seller says this car is #54 to roll off the assembly line (they were numbered?). We don’t know the history of this beast, but it looks to have been left to languish for many years.
A full restoration should be your goal, as who would pay close to $10k for a parts car? From the photos provided, there is ample rust, and the interior will probably have to be stripped out and started over. The seller says there are some extra parts available, so that implies there is a separate charge. But what’s the story on the other Packard in the barn? Thanks for the tip, “Zappenduster”!
I believe a talented young engineer helped in the design of these Packards – ever hear of John Delorean?
These cars are just beautiful, when they’re restored. They look like they’re made of cast iron, too – irresistible forces in motion, immovable objects at rest.