5588 - Caribbean Convertible Coupe

SERIES:

55th

YEAR:

1955

WB:

127

MODEL/CHASSIS:

5580

CARBURETOR:

Rochester 4GC 7008230 7008231

ENGINE:

352

CYLINDERS:

8

HP:

275

WEIGHT:

4,755

MSRP:

$5,932

TOTAL PRODUCTION:

500

PASSENGERS:

6

GND VOLTAGE:

+12

TIRE SIZE:

8.00x15

Caribbean now rides on the long wheelbase chassis. The 55th Senior Series models are a major facelift of the 1951-54 shell, but trunk lid and handle are carried-over from previous Series. Trunk lid is shorter than those on closed cars to accommodate convertible stack - as is windshield. Vee motif used throughout the car to tout the all-new Packard V8 motor, fitted with dual 4-barrel carburetors and backed by the new Twin Ultramatic automatic transmission as standard equipment. Hood is distinguished from other Packard/Clipper models by a pair of stampings that terminate in faux scoops, and a prop rod is provided. While PACKARD is spelled out in chrome letters across the hood of other Packard models, they are not used here (though the inner hood reinforcement has provision for them). Ribbed stainless side trim is not used, creating a third area for exterior color - available in four standard tri-tone paint schemes, though other color combinations could be ordered. Gas door molding necessitates finger cove in upsweep molding. Interior trim is typically color-coordinated to exterior paint colors - including a headlining for convertible top. Fender skirts and lower body moldings are standard. Cathedral-style taillights are an instant classic. Dual rear radio antennae are standard (though only one provides signal to receiver). All exterior script plates are gold-plated, but none are used on trunk lid. All-new Torsion-Level suspension is standard. (NOTE: While a few 55th Series Caribbean hardtops are known to exist, these were not standard production models, but converted from 55th Series Four Hundreds - likely done by dealers.) - BH