Re: '66 Packard Model Car

Posted by Fyreline On 2012/8/29 17:41:52

Yes, that modified T-Bird looks pretty good from the side. Exner's 1966 Duesenberg is one of my favorite designs, and it's surprising how well this car captures the flavor of that one. It's been noted how wide these T-birds appear, but I consider that a plus. It allows the designer latitude to create a wider neo-classic grille instead of being forced to use the Predictor-like blade design. All in all, it could make a very pleasing Packard.

While all of these proposals are fun to consider, the sad reality is that the US auto business is just that - a business. Any scheme to save, revive or resurrect Packard had to start with a business model that showed some sort of profit. The days of the loss-leader halo car were pretty much gone by the point in time we're discussing. Yes, Ford learned some valuable lessons building the Continental Mark II, as did GM with the Italian Eldorado Brougham and Chrysler with the Ghia Crown Imperial limousines. I just don't see the numbers supporting an AMC Ambassador-based Packard. While it may not have cost them the earth to bring it to market, it would still have taken scarce funds from more profitable lines, and marketing it through what many still thought of as "Rambler" dealers may have been a difficult task at best. in any case, we'll never know, but that shouldn't stop us from speculating.

So we've considered T-Birds, Chryslers and AMCs . . . What else have ya got?