Re: 1952 Packard Patrician

Posted by Brian Wilson On 2019/6/6 20:09:10

Yes, Howard's assessment of the competitive landscape for Packard is very fair. And diplomatic!

The fact that relatively few of the 1950s Packards have survived has given them a rarity value. They still attract attention on the road and are great conversation starters. They did not follow the US trend towards "moonshot" styling which began in the 1950s, but did not take hold elsewhere. Perhaps they could not afford it, or still had a semblance of taste in styling.

To my eyes, my 1941 120 Club Coupe and the prewar Clippers were some of the most attractive cars available then. Packard had not lost their magic touch with styling at that point. The early 1950s Patrician styling has also aged well, and perhaps appeals more today than when it was new.

You don't say much about the condition or accessories of your "barn find" Patrician. Certainly worth saving if it can be done. Pretty much everything you might need to restore it to good health is available, and there is a wealth of good advice on this site to help with the tricky bits. Maybe post a few pics (if you're smarter than me)? Do your sums on the economics of a restoration, keeping as much original as possible. If it doesn't make sense, perhaps pass it on to someone here with an advanced case of "Packarditis" and time on their hands.

Cheers

Brian