1952 Packard 200

Packard introduced a lower-priced line in the 1930s that helped it survive the Great Depression and provided the necessary cash flow it needed to survive and thrive. Wartime production work provided Packard with even more solid financial footing, allowing it to design new models for release in 1948 to replace the Clipper of the early 1490s. The 15 million dollar design program resulted in the 22nd and 23rd Series bathtub models that initially met with strong sales. By the 1950s, faced with strong competition from other manufacturers, cause sales to dwindle. Packard designers countered with the new 24th Series models that arrived in 1951. The styling was conventional and featured contemporary three-box designs with full-width fenders much in line with the new models released by General Motors in 1949.

For 1951, Packard sales reached 100,132 examples making the new designs an unqualified success. The total sales for the following year plummeted to 69,988 examples. Four model lines were offered comprising the 200, 250, 300, and 400. All 1952 Packards were powered by the L-head straight-eight engine that had a near-silent operation at idle, smoothness, and durability. The 200 and 200 Deluxe was powered by a 288 CID version, the smallest in the lineup, fitted with five main bearings, a Carter two-barrel carburetor, and delivering 138 horsepower at 3,600 RPM.

The 200 and 250 Models were considered junior series cars and were separated from the Packard 300 and Packard Patrician 400 models by their shorter wheelbases 122 inches versus 127 inches and lesser trim appointments. Body styles on the 200 Standard Line included a sedan and club sedan, while the Deluxe Line was available as a sedan and club sedan. The Standard Business Coupe of 1951 was dropped. Prices began at $2,475 for the Standard Club Sedan and rose to $2,675 for the Deluxe Sedan. The total production for Standard 200 Models reached 24,310 examples, and the 200 Deluxes accounted for $47,052 sales.

The Deluxe trim line had a toothy-type grille, chrome wheel trim rings, and three 'jet louvers' on the rear quarter of the body. Additionally, there were turn indicators, an electric clock, a glovebox lamp, and foam rubber front seat cushions. The upholstery was finished in gray or brown pin-striped cloth.

With approximately 46,700 Packard 200s sold in 1952, they accounted for approximately 67 percent of Packard's total production.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2020