Description
The declining luxury car market saw Packard expand its model range to include a new line of cheaper, mid-range models in the years leading up the Second World War, culminating in the release of the Clipper, arguably the most significant new model released by the marque in decades. A clean-sheet design, the Clipper’s modern styling was penned by the talented Dutch Darrin with input from Packard’s in-house designers and the double-drop frame allowed for a much lower, wider appearance.
Immediately successful, the Clipper was on target to reach 80, 000 units in its first year but Pearl Harbor saw production curtailed until October 1945. Early post-war models were largely unchanged and the range consisted of the Series 2100 Clipper Six, Series 2101/ 2111 Clipper Eight in either Standard of Deluxe versions and the Series 2106/ 2126 Custom Eight. A two-door Club Sedan and four-door Touring Sedan were available, while motive power was provided either by an L-head in-line six displacing 245-cid or the larger 282- or 356-cid straight eights.
Despite the intervening war years, the Clipper’s Art Deco-inspired styling and interior still looked fresh and sales proved strong from 1946 onwards.
Offered from an extensive collection based in the Southern Highlands region of NSW, this 1946 Clipper presents in very original condition, albeit needing some refurbishment following many years of storage. The dark blue paint is flaking in a couple of places and has a few scrapes here and there, while the brightwork has tarnished and pitted.
The interior has also suffered a little and the front and rear seats and both door panels have some rodent damage, albeit repairable, the headliner is sagging but the carpets are generally clean and tidy front and rear. The dash panel is a fabulous piece of Art Deco design and incredibly modern by comparison with most contemporary European cars.
Mechanically complete, we have not tried to start the Clipper (there is no battery) but the straight eight’s are easy enough to work on and putting the car back on the road should prove relatively straightforward. It’s important to note the brakes are binding making it difficult to move. Offered without reserve, the Packard will also be sold unregistered.
These early post-war Packards represent excellent value for money in the current market, offering superb build quality, luxury features and American style for significantly less money than a contemporary Holden or Ford.
Estimate: $10, 000 - $15, 000
