Packard shopping, what do you think of this car?

Posted by humanpotatohybrid On 2022/8/28 21:17:59

Hi all,

Been looking at picking up another Packard, this time one that actually runs/drives/stops/looks properly so that I can park it at my house that is controlled by an HOA that pretty much doesn't allow you to work on cars in your driveway, and I don't have a garage (though obviously I'll keep the car covered). Was looking at 51-54's but there's hardly any for sale... nearest ones are like a 10h round trip.

Anyway, I've checked out a few and I'm leaning towards this one. Mainly because it's the only one that seems to run and drive properly. As just stated, that's a huge priority. I figured I would post here to see if anyone has any thoughts on the car, and importantly, thoughts on what price I should offer to the seller.

A photo album with captions is included here, I recommend reading from bottom to top, as all the close-ups are near the top:https://imgur.com/a/ZU44U9t

General overview:
Pros:
- Low mileage (believed under 40k)
- Engine sounds good
- Transmission shifts smooth
- Brakes just redone (including power brake rebuilt)
- Radiator replaced (original included)
- Water pump rebuilt
- Carb rebuilt
- Heater core recored

Neutral:
- No TL ride

Cons:
- Many rust holes in the floor pan
- Headliner and carpet needs replaced
- Front door cards water damaged
- Seats have significant surface wear
- Paint has several rusty areas
- Various trim missing or loose (after reinstallation from last paint job), horn ring is broken
- Minor exhaust leaks
- Fuel/temp gauges not working, odometer not working, shift needle offset a good amount
- Fuel cell installed in trunk floor instead of proper aftermarket tank

History of the car:
Purch. new by PA state rep, traded in in 56, owned by same family until sold in estate sale (this family gave it its most recent paint job, and installed the fuel cell in the trunk). Purchased by a guy who did nothing with it for a year, then sold to current owner several years ago. Selling because he has other vehicle projects and he's fixed up this one. Test drive I did not actually drive it because it was never registered nor insured, but no title issues. When I got in the passenger side and shut the door, a good amount of rust flakes fell from the headliner onto me. Car seemed to drive fine just a bit noisy from exhaust leak. Brakes seemed to work great, and it has power brakes. There were two axles in the trunk. Seems the previous owners may have replaced them for unknown reasons.

So I think it seems like a "good buy", (at least in that it meets my basic requirements) only real question is, what should I offer given the current state of the Packard market?

Also I think he's a bit desperate to sell it, he's had it posted at least since June with 3-4 Facebook posts up. Apparently he's barely gotten any attention.