"The White Cloud" 1956 Packard Caribbean Convertible

Description

Raleigh Classic Car Auctions have built a pristine reputation over 26 years of live auctions, as the go-to for the best-of-the-best offerings for car collectors and enthusiasts. Regionally trusted and nationally recognized, Raleigh Classic Car Auctions continues to find low-mile, original examples with documentation annually. The October Special is an offering of 28 premium quality, low-mile and desirable, domestic lots from three private estates. All vehicles are available for in-person inspection at The Raleigh Classic Showroom in Zebulon, NC; 9:00am-4:00pm Monday-Friday: 10/28/25 - 11/12/25 or by appointment.

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Based on the Pan American convertible concept that was shown in 1952, Packard introduced the production Caribbean in 1953. By its fourth year in 1956, the Packard Caribbean was a stunning Jet-age drop top, powered by a brand new 374 cubic-inch, 310 horsepower OHV V8 with dual four-barrel carburetors. The car rode on electronically operated, self-leveling torsion bar suspension.

This is one of the most famous post-war Packards, a factory triple-white Caribbean aptly named “The White Cloud” in Packard Club enthusiast circles. The White Cloud was specified new with a push-button automatic transmission, Solex tinted windshield, Power Lock differential, chromium-plated wire wheels, and a Dover White exterior over all-white leather upholstery beneath a black convertible top. This famous Caribbean also features all available power options, including dual rear-mounted and synchronized power antennas.

The White Cloud was delivered new to Gulfstream Motors in Palm Beach, Florida, and was owned for many years by the noted Packard enthusiast Edwin Jones. According to the seller “under the previous owner’s care, this Packard was treated to a complete concours-quality restoration, and afterward it continued a schedule of regular exhibition at Packard Club events.”

More recently, according to the seller “The White Cloud’s previous owner—a passionate collector of Packard automobiles—exported it to Norway and treated it to the complete restoration which it wears today within his own personal restoration facility. Wherever possible, original parts were retained, reconditioned, or restored by the owner’s in-house specialists.” The seller reports that all OEM and NOS parts for this undertaking were purchased directly from respected Packard authorities Fred Bruner and Max Merritt, and this Packard is said to be entirely rebuilt and renewed.

Then as now, as Packard boasted, “The Caribbean Convertible… a masterpiece of automotive design and engineering.”

Highlights

• Offered from The Raleigh Classic Collection

• 92,561 miles indicated

  • Based on the seller's thorough assessment, known history, and accompanying documentation, the odometer reading of this Packard Carribean is believed to be correct.

• Famous “The White Cloud” Caribbean Convertible

• Finished in Dover White paint over matching white leather interior

• Powered by a 374 cu-in V8, with dual four-barrel carbs rated at 310 horsepower

• Three-speed Ultramatic automatic transmission

• The chassis number (5699-1084) decodes as:

  • 56 – 1956 model year

  • 99 – Caribbean Convertible Coupe

  • 1084 – Body number: 84th of 276 1956 Caribbean Convertibles produced

Features

• Torsion-level self-adjusting suspension system

• Comprehensive factory power equipment including steering, brakes, seat, and convertible top

• Power-Lock differential

• Ultramatic push-button automatic transmission

• Solex tinted glass and electronically synchronized dual rear antennas

• AM pushbutton radio with integrated antenna controls

• Analog clock with full in-dash instrumentation

• Heater and defroster system

• Chromium-plated wire wheels wrapped in white wall tires (5212 DOT Date Code)

• Interior finished with loop-pile carpeting, courtesy lighting, and locking glove box

• 12-volt electrical system supporting factory accessories

Known Imperfections

• As with any vintage vehicle, some imperfections may be present. Interested parties are encouraged to review the photo gallery and contact the seller with any questions.

Ownership History

This 1956 Packard Caribbean Convertible “The White Cloud” is offered from The Raleigh Classic Collection with a clean Florida title.