1955 Packard

I am selling my 1955 Packard Clipper Custom Constellation that I have owned for 38 years. Believe it or not, I purchased it from two ladies who were the original owners. They had only driven it for 29000 miles in the 24 years that they owned it. I added about 5000 miles in the 38 years that I have owned it. When I was younger I took it to quite a few local and regional car shows. Seldom did I ever see another 1950's Packard at any of the shows. One year I drove the car 300 miles to the huge annual Hershey Car Show in Hershey, PA. While there, I came across only one other 55 Packard. So if you want to be unique, and drive an antique car to cruises or car shows, this might be the car for you. You'll see a lot of Chevys, Fords, and Chrysler Corp cars, but you won't see many Packards, and your car will draw a lot of attention.
My Packard has been housed in a climate controlled garage at my home ever since I have owned it. About 20 years ago it underwent a frame up restoration, that looks as good today as it did back then. It included removal of the paint down to bare metal. Repair of a few body defects with the use of proper gauge metal and lead, which is almost a lost art today. There is absolutely no body putty on this car. The body is straight and was prepared meticulously for a repaint with the original colors in acrylic lacquer. The painter and body man was a true artist and a dedicated car nut. The condition of the paint today is remarkable. In addition to the exterior restoration, the interior seats were reupholstered with the original materials, new carpet was installed, and the interior looks as good today as it did when it left the showroom. The engine compartment has been detailed, and looks better than new (just look at the pictures). All of the chrome was replaced to show quality by Paul's Chrome Plating, and all the stainless steel was polished. I can't imagine how much it would cost today to have that done.
I have recently spent over $4000 to prepare the car mechanically for sale. Included in the preparation is a rebuilt generator, a new voltage regulator, a new battery, new trunk weatherstrip, new cowl to hood weatherstrip, a new gas tank, new power steering pump, seals, and hoses, new radiator hoses, new brakes, brake shoes, brake cylinders, springs etc., the emergency brake was also redone, They repaired windshield wiper system. Rebuilt or NOS parts were used for the torsion bar suspension system. Anything else that was needed to make it road worthy was done.
I am selling the Packard for several reasons. I'm getting old, and I have too many "toys" and limited garage space. Besides my wife thinks I should sell some of them, and I think she's probably right this time. In addition, it's a shame to have this vehicle sitting in a garage. It needs to be enjoyed and driven to car cruises and car shows where it can be appreciated by others.
The Packard is 62 years old and does have some flaws. The radio and the clock have not worked since I've owned the car, and I never used them so they weren't fixed. There is a small spot of fluid on my garage floor. Otherwise, I think everything else is in reasonably good condition. However, it is 62 years old so I am selling the car as is with no warranty or guarantees stated or implied. Before you buy either come and see the car yourself or please have somebody inspect it. I have attempted to describe it to the best of my ability, and I don't want any disappointments after the sale. If you have any questions, you may reach me (Eli) at (304) 491-2020. Thanks for looking and have a great day.