Re: 55 four hundred

Posted by BH On 2009/6/2 10:42:06

For me, the 1956 models (though some claim them to be a more of a stopgap) are the ultimate evolution of Packard styling. They are better looking than so many other vehicles of the day (and there were plenty of attractive vehicles back then - more than now).

The '55 styling was no doubt pleasing when it debuted (and a great facelift of the Reinhart body), but might have made more of an impact as a '54 model year release. The camel-back deck looks a bit dated in 1955.

The lines and trim of the '56 Seniors (with the ribbed stainless) are so good that I am frequently torn between restoring the one Pat I have that was originally painted in a Dover White/Corsican Black two-tone in a monochromatic black - while retaining the black/white cloth/leather interior trim combination.