Pro's/Con's of the '51 Patrician and Ultramatic

Posted by Steve On 2011/5/23 17:57:10

Although a car collector for more than 25 years and hoping to own a Packard for much longer than that, I have yet to own a Packard. I'm a member of the Packard club and regular visitor to this site, which has helped me immensely in my appreciation for these cars.

I've been on the hunt for a 21st or 22nd series senior-level car and just haven't come across the right one. My question today though has to do with the '51 models. I've come across a low-mileage, beautifully-preserved '51 Patrician located out of state. I've looked at this model only casually in the past but am intrigued with this one.

For those who are familiar with these cars, what do you consider to be the pro's and con's of these cars? I'm very leery of the Ultramatic, about which I know little beyond what I've read on this site. I wish it was equipped with manual/OD but of course that wasn't an option.

I've gone back and looked at a number of posts which are somewhat related to this topic but would appreciate additional comments, any guidance, items to look for/ask about, and whether this car really is worth considering for long-term ownership.

Many thanks-

Steve