Re: SP merger

Posted by 58L8134 On 2015/3/26 18:02:53

Hi

The move of complete assembly to Connor Avenue was a major nail in Packard's coffin. Whatever bright promise the '55 models held was completely scuttled by first the badly delayed January 17th 1955 introduction, then significantly worsened by the lack of availability at the dealerships of new '55's until well into the spring. Those that were available showed poor build quality. Even dealership stability and availability had become a major issue in many markets as well.

Pile onto that customer reports that the new V8 had functional problems with oil aeration/lifter noise, Twin-Ultramatics failing prematurely and a steady drumbeat of bad business news regarding Studebaker-Packard's financials.

By the time '55's of decent quality and sufficient supply became available, enthusiasm had cooled and buyers had become wary of being stuck with an orphan with little resale value. However much improved the '56 models were, buyers had to be real Packard loyalists or brave to take a chance on a new one.

Steve