1953 | Packard Series 2631 Caribbean

Introduced in November 1952, the 1953 model-year Packard Cavalier was an upscale version of the more entry-level Clipper series. It was a stylish, premium vehicle from Packard’s mid-range Cavalier line, embodying the brand’s reputation for luxury and quality craftsmanship. An effortless long-distance cruiser, this model was fitted with a 327 in.³ L head in-line eight-cylinder engine, with a single four-barrel carburettor. Amazingly for 1953 it was fitted with ‘Ultramatic’ automatic transmission, ‘Easamatic’ power assisted brakes, power steering and a power operated soft top.

The exteriors were fitted with more sporty looking chrome side trims, and a more ornate front grille design. The interiors were lavishly equipped. The showstopping appearance of this example is completed with chromium wire wheels and white wall tyres. In its gorgeous shade of pale green with black leather upholstery and a matching black hood this is a car that stops traffic!

On our first drive, we found it to be ultra smooth. It literally glides over a bumps and has a more precise than expected steering system. Everyone who saw it wanted a picture - it is so impressive. The condition is absolutely superb, and a small fortune was spent on the chromework during the car's comprehensive restoration in the United States. It has been with a private collector in the UK for over eight years, as part of an important collection of historic American cars.

To the best of our knowledge there isn't another convertible of this specification in the United Kingdom. There is good parts support for routine service items and mechanical components, because although only 1519 convertibles were ever built, it shares mechanical components with the more abundant sedans. It was bought in the U.S for $47,500 in the summer of 2016 and with shipping, import duties and tax the owner invested an equivalent amount in pounds to acquire the best example available. A show quality piece of classic fifties Americana for £32,995