Lot 198

The Charlie Thomas Collection

1953 Packard Caribbean Convertible

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$57,200 USD | Sold

United States | Grapevine, Texas

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Body No.
2678 2698
Vehicle No.
2678 2698

180 hp, 327 cu. in. inline eight-cylinder engine, Ultramatic transmission, independent front suspension and semi-floating rear axle, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 122 in.

Packard shipped partially completed convertibles to custom car builder Mitchell Bentley Corp. in Ionia, Michigan, and while they were there, they were transformed into completed Caribbeans. All engineering and mechanics were pretty much standard, but the open wheels and tires, undercoated sides, hood scoop, and extended rear fenders and tail are unique to these cars. This beautiful example was restored more than 20 years ago and has been carefully stored since. The inline eight-cylinder engine and automatic transmission were professionally rebuilt at the time. Many areas were tended to, including new leather upholstery, new paint, and new chrome wire wheels. The engine bay could use some cosmetic freshening, while the paint and trim have an expected patina and polish marks. The underside retains its nice glossy black finish, and the interior maroon and cream upholstery shows little wear. Features include power brakes, a pushbutton radio, a power top, and a Continental kit. Of the 750 Caribbeans built, the Packard Registry estimates that about 88 examples remain.