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.
