The Packard Caribbean was a personal luxury car produced by the Packard Motor Car Company of Detroit, Michigan, during model years 1953 through 1956. ... It was produced only as a convertible from 1953 to 1955, but a hardtop model was added in its final year of 1956. Additional pictures to be posted as able.
The 1953 Caribbean was perhaps Packard's most easily identified car because of its full cutout rear wheel housing and side trim, limited to a chrome band outline that stretched the entire length of the car. The band also helped to further delineate the car's wheel openings. A steel continental spare tire was also standard. The hood featured a broad, low leaded-in hood scoop. Bodies for the Caribbean were modified by Mitchell-Bentley Corporation of Ionia, Michigan. Available "advertised" colors for the car were limited to Polaris Blue, Gulf Green Metallic, Maroon Metallic or Sahara Sand. However, a mere handful of special-ordered cars were built in Ivory or Black.
Interiors of the Caribbean were richly upholstered in leather. Most Caribbeans were also generously optioned, although the Ultramatic transmission and power windows were optional cost items on the first year model. A total of 750 Caribbeans were built for the first model year, and these cars are highly sought after as collectible cars in the current collectible automobile market. Restored cars regularly sell in the six-figure ranges.
The subject vehicle is a restored 1953 Packard Caribbean. One of 750, and all 1953 Caribbean’s were convertibles. Engine is a 327ci I-head I-8 4v 180 Hp. Miles show 28,639 and the Overal condition is rated at a #2. According to the data plate on the driver side door jamb, this example is #245 of 750. All Caribbean’s were well optioned as standard, with power windows and automatic transmission as options. This vehicle is equipped with both. The age of the restoration is not known. The vehicle was the recipient of an AACA Senior National first prize in 2010. The engine area has been beautifully restored.
The engine area has been beautifully restored.
Many period components observed. Mid-April 1953 casting dates on all engine components, including head, block, bellhousing, and intake. Carburetor is a correct Carter WCBF, with a June, 1953 date code on the tag. Period correct hose clamps on all hoses except heater hoses. Vehicle retains correct 6 volt electronics, currently with a 6 volt Optima battery. Intake and exhaust manifolds show no surface corrosion. Engine nicely painted, with light grease accumulation in a few spots. Vinyl underhood mat shows in excellent condition with no damage. Period correct wiring harness shows in excellent condition with no damage observed. Delco distributor and generator. Engine block stamped L411958 in its correct location above the starter. “L” is correct and specific to 1953 cars. Correct glass washer solvent tank. The overall level of detail and correctness of the engine area is impressive.
The interior has been completely restored. Seats show in very good condition, with no notable damage. Cut-pile carpet shows in good condition, with light wear and tear observed. Dashboard fascia painted beautifully. Light patina observed on the instrument cluster and dash switchgear. Steering wheel shows in excellent condition, with no wear or cracks. Inner door panels show in good condition with no wear observed. Missing rubber inner door weather seal on passenger side door. Convertible top frame has been refinished, and shows no cosmetic damage. Power windows were not all working properly.
Exterior has been beautifully finished in 1953 correct color code U Metallic Maroon. The finish shows in excellent condition, with no notable damage observed and excellent overall reflective quality. There was not a legible color code on the door tag denoting original color, although there may be a “U” paint stamping in the paint color box, it is too light to identify definitively. Chrome shows very nicely.
Owner of dealership passed away and we are selling his collection. call 1-800-762-8824 Mansfield Motor Group, Mansfield Ohio MMGauto.com
