The Caribbean was Packard’s top-of-the-line automobile and served as the company’s “halo car” from 1953 to 1956. Except for the last year, the Caribbean was only offered as a convertible. The 1955 models were heavily restyled and were perhaps some of the best-looking vehicles of the 1950s (IMO). This ’55 edition needs a full restoration and wears black and red paint with a red interior. Located in a garage in Alhambra, California, this once stately automobile is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $20,000.
1955 Caribbeans had an all-new 352 cubic inch OHV V8 that produced 275 hp. The new engine was committed before the Studebaker-Packard merger in 1954, which, ironically, would seal the Caribbean’s fate after 1956. In 1957 and 1958, all Packards were rebadged Studebakers that the dealers and buying public did not take to. The merged company was losing money left and right, so the Packard brand was retired in ’58. Sources indicate that 500 Caribbeans were produced in 1955, while the seller says 220. Either way, it was a small universe.
The seller’s car has been on the market for several months, so the totality of the project may not be attractive to buyers at the asking price. The car has fewer than 45,000 miles, but there’s no indication of authenticity. We’ve seen several 1955-56 Caribbeans here on Barn Finds, but this is the first one in this color combination. Is it complete? We don’t know, but the convertible top material is long gone.
We don’t see an abundance of rust to scare folks away, and the interior will need an extreme makeover. It’s doubtful that the engine is ready to run, and we see that the radiator cap is missing, suggesting the car is void of coolant. This is a rare car that would be impressive once restored, but it will take a lot of time and money to get there. Another great tip from “Zappenduster”!
Leave A Comment