1953 Packard Deluxe Clipper Touring Sedan

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

In a step toward creating a separate marque to go head-to-head with the likes of Buick and Mercury, Packard president James Nance revived the Clipper nameplate after a five-year absence. Although a separate Clipper marque never materialized, the “Packard Clipper” line replaced the entry-level 200, joining the up-market Cavalier, Mayfair, Caribbean, and Patrician in 1953. In both standard and Deluxe trim, the Clipper employed a 122 inch chassis, with the former powered by a 288 cu-in straight-eight, and the Deluxe Clipper a 160 horsepower, two-barrel version of the 327. A two-door Club Sedan and a four-door Touring Sedan were available, as well as a two-door Sportster coupe – all of which wore a new, high-beltline design, replacing the bathtub-like styling of 1948-1950. Though they were the entry-level model, Clippers are considered stylish, well-engineered cars, and are among the last Packards ever produced before the marque was retired in 1959. 

Highlights

• Highly original example said to have been enjoyed by only three owners from new

• Retains its original Polaris Blue and gray Bedford Cord cloth finishes

• Powered by a 327 cu-in flathead straight-eight rated at 160 horsepower

• Column-shifted Ultramatic automatic transmission

• Equipped with power brakes

• Rides on Kumho Solus KR21 tires mounted approximately 2 years ago

• Running and driving, heavily patinated “survivor” example 

• This Deluxe Clipper Touring Sedan is offered with the five-digit odometer currently showing just under 51,200 miles at the time of listing; however, the true mileage is unknown 

Features

• 15-inch steel wheels with chrome Packard covers

• Hood ornament

• Chrome bumpers with over-riders, front and rear

• Chrome side trim

• Driver’s side exterior rearview mirror

• Rear fender skirts

• Manually operated windows

• Vent windows, front and rear 

• Lap seatbelts

• Locking glove compartment

• Bench seats, front and rear

• Cigar lighter

• Electric clock

• Wrap-around rear window

• 30 cubic feet of luggage space

Known Imperfections

• Presented as a patinated, highly original “survivor” with flaking paint, scratches, corrosion, and minor dents present throughout

• The fuel gauge is inoperative

Included

• Spare wheel and tire

• Box of assorted literature and manuals

• Additional cylinder head

Ownership History

The consignor acquired this Deluxe Clipper Touring Sedan circa 2021. The car is said to have been held in long-term storage at the Fresno Chandler Executive Airport in Fresno, California under previous ownership.