Re: What SINGLE factor MOST contributed to the demise of Packard?

Posted by bkazmer On 2013/5/8 11:36:05

I think tooling amortization was still an issue, as it lead to designs being kept in place longer than desireable in the public's eye. The larger companies used this to their advantage, being better able to afford shorter cycles. shorter cycles to amortize the tolling raises the breakeven point. remember that Packard generally wanted to be no quicker than up to date in styling. Consider this opinionated scenario:

the 1940 redesign was cautious, with the in-vogue catwalk grilles and narrower grille, but still rounded windows and heavy pillars. But attractive in a conservative way. Cadillac, LaSalle and LaSalle were perhapsd a year ahead.

the 41 design alters the roofline considerably, gets the headlights in the fenders, and facilitates two tone paint. The hood line is looking dated.

41.5 Clipper with integrated from fenders and a fashioable 2 door fastback. quite up to date

46 -7 carryover

48 new body (yes , the clipper cabin damages the proportions)in modern envelope style. up to date.
1949 sales around 100,000

50 the new body now instead of 1951

54 the clever 55 facelift now

56 the planned 57 bodies

so to me the 23rd series was the styling error