Re: Packard Cormorant Badge

Posted by 55PackardGuy On 2010/9/27 12:07:05

Is this similar to the '48-'50 models? Grille and deck lid/handle?

In the old MoTor manuals of yore, the line illustrations of grilles for various model years were lined up at the beginning of a section on a particular marque. I believe at one time it was traditional to change grilles yearly, and in addition to a cheap way to make "new" models look a bit new, they apparently aided in identification of the model year for mechanics.

The pictures were fun to look at, and helped me be a "spotter" of more than just a particulart make of car. Now, I usually look at the tail light lenses, which in the '50s and most of the '60 have a two-number year stamp molded into the plastic. This means hunkering down and squinting at the tail lights. Not a particularly good position to be in... it looks like you're hiding behind the car. People notice this kind of behavior. the owner is liable to come up behind you and comment, or kick you. I'd like to be able to identify Packard modes for each year from a less conspicuous stance once in a while. A set of grille illustrations or photos might help us all become expert "Packard spotters," amaze our friends, win bets, etc.

'55s and '56s are fairly easy, which speaks to the efforts to consolidate models and distinguish the seniors from the Clippers.

Am I missing an easier way to identify model years?