1954 Packard Convertible

Packard 54th Series offered two convertible body styles for 1954, and both were on the senior line (Series 5431). Both rested on the sporty 122-inch wheelbase platform and had a 211.5-inch length. Power was from the company's largest engine, an inline L-head unit with a 359 cubic-inch displacement, nine main bearings, hydraulic lifters, a Carter four-barrel carburetor, and delivering 212 horsepower at 4,000 RPM. This was the largest engine on the market, and its 212 horsepower was among the most powerful, on par with the Series 75 Cadillac Fleetwood and Series Sixty Special that offered 230 hp, and the Ferrari 250 Europa that had 220 horsepower. This would be the final year for Packard's inline 8, as a new and modern overhead-valve V-8 was introduced in 1955. The Packard straight-eight engine was backed by a three-speed manual transmission or optional Ultramatic drive unit, and standard equipment on the convertible included the pelican-style hood mascot and rear fender shields. The interior upholstery was done in a combination of leather and leather-grained plastic.

Packard's two convertible body styles had many similarities, but many differences. The Caribbean had more standard equipment including power windows, a power seat, dual heaters and defrosters, the Ultramatic transmission, a three-way radio with electric antenna, chromed wire wheels, wide chrome wheel-housing surrounds with body sill and rear quarter panel extensions, and a continental spare tire. The Caribbean Custom was certainly the top-of-the-line Packard with its price tag of $6,100 far exceeding all other 1954 Packards, except for the Patrician Custom/Henney Line that included an executive sedan and limousine - both with seating for eight passengers - and prices beginning at $6,900 and rising to $7,250.

While the Caribbean had a base price of $6,100, the 'Packard Convertible' listed for $3,935, a difference of over $2,100. A total of 863 examples of the Convertible were sold while the Caribbean found only 400 willing buyers. The other Packard model in the 'Packard Line' was the Packard Pacific hardtop coupe, which had a base price of $3,830 and had 1,189 sales.

by Dan Vaughan

Convertible

When people think of Fifties-era Packard convertibles, most think of the Caribbean. But Packard also produced a model called the convertible, which was less expensive, but no less impressive - and it outsold the Caribbean. The most obvious difference between the two was in the finish; the Convertibles had a sophisticated solid body color, while the Carribeans sported a flashier two-tone design. The Convertibles were styled by John Reinhart and introduced in 1951. 1954 would be the last year for this imposing design. Power came courtesy of a 359 cubic-inch L-head inline eight-cylinder engine producing 212 horsepower and 330 ft-pounds of torque.

This example, finished in Varsity Gray, is one of 863 copies built in 1954, making this Packard a rare survivor from one of America's premier luxury lines.

Convertible

In 1954 the Senior Packard line consisted of the Caribbean, Convertible, and Pacific hardtop. Unlike the other cars in the Packard line the Convertible was just called Convertible as opposed to being given a model name. All shared the same engine and drivetrain. The Caribbean and Convertible share the same body. This was the last year for the straight eight.

This highly optioned Convertible has power steering, power brakes, a hydraulic top, and a leather interior.

The 356 cubic inch engine produced 212 horsepower and 330 foot-pounds of torque. The Convertible weighed 4260 pounds and cost $3935. Only 863 Convertibles were produced. The color is Mackinaw Gray.

Convertible
Chassis number: 5479-2420

The John Reinhart-designed 'high pockets' styling that was introduced in 1951 lasted through 1954. Updates to the styling included a larger grille that gave it a more imposing appearance. Beneath the graceful bonnet was a nine-main-bearing L-head eight-cylinder engine displacing 359 cubic inches and delivering 212 horsepower. This particular example is paired with a three-speed manual transmission with overdrive and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. The front suspension is independent with coil springs while the rear uses a semi-floating axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs.

Just 863 examples of the Packard Convertible were sold in 1954.

This example has been given a restoration and finished in its present hue to Chariot Red along with a new black-and-red interior with a black convertible top.

by Dan Vaughan

Convertible

Packard's 1954 model year was the last for the John Reinhart-designed 'high pockets' styling first introduced in 1951. This is one of only 863 produced for 1954 and is powered by a 327 cubic-inch 'Thunderbolt' L-head straight-eight engine paired with a two-speed Ultramatic automatic transmission. It has independent front suspension with coil springs, semi-floating rear axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes on a 122-inch wheelbase. Features include power steering and brakes, a push-button AM radio, a power-adjustable bench seat, steel wheels with chrome covers, and a power-retractable tan soft top.