Re: BigKev's 1954 Packard Clipper Deluxe Sedan

Posted by HH56 On 2010/12/15 0:45:09

I don't know why they went to two-piece in '55

If memory serves, I believe there is a bit on styling the 55's in the Kimes edited book.

The author's take was originally they had planned to use the 54 Clipper back styling intact. When looking at the car in side view at one of the final reviews, it appeared to someone in mgt it looked unbalanced because of the new double bumper up in front.

They had to change it so elected to do the back double bumper to have the appearance of more mass. In 53 they had done a similar treatment in order to make that car appear upgraded from 52s so using essentially the same idea & some pieces, it was something that could be done quickly and cheaply on the 55 Clippers.

In 56 in addition to the new tail lights they were able to go back to the single bumper because of the new higher side pieces for balance under the tail lights.