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It's a little hard to tell from the illustrated plates in the parts book, but after looking at my old American Car Spotter's Guide 1940-1965, I see what you mean.

The top of the leading edge of the front doors for closed cars are rounded for 51-52, but have more of a "corner" to them for 53-54.

The outer repair panels (skins) fit 51-54 because they only cover that part of the door below the window belt line.

I went and inspected the 51 and 52 Packards and it looked to me like the front doors would not fit due to the changes made on the front windshield and post as you guys explained. Also did not find any parts I could use as they were both deteriorated very much. I did pick up the duct work needed for the fresh air ducts at no cost and had a great day looking at all the cars Tom had at his home. He has a 51 Caribbean convertible that is almost done and I asked him to get on line to join the info hot line as he is a collector and car builder.

Caribbean's were only 1953-1956. So a 1951 would be a "Standard" Convertible which I believe was considered a 250 model.

Also in 1953-1954 they had both Caribbean Convertibles, and Standard Convertibles. I actual prefer the look of the Standard ones over the Caribbean's IMHO.