In 1953 the U.S. auto industry was in full swing and at the beginning of two boom decades. It manifested its vibrancy and vigor by bringing dream cars to market, including the Eldorado, Skylark, Fiesta and Corvette of GM’s Motorama and Packard’s Caribbean Custom Convertible.
There were just 750 of these distinctive Caribbean convertibles built on the Cavalier convertible chassis by Mitchell-Bentley Corp. in Ionia, Michigan. The design featured an enclosed rear-mounted spare tire, radiused wheel arches, a full-width hood scoop, chrome wire wheels, unique rear fenders, horizontal tail lights and full leather interior upholstery.
This is a fabulous restoration that has been well maintained and recently treated to a thorough detailing. It is painted black and has attractive black and white leather upholstery and a black cloth top.
The 327cid Packard inline 8 breathed through a 4-barrel carburetor which boosted the power to 180hp at 4,000rpm. It drives through Packard’s Ultramatic automatic transmission.
In addition to the standard Caribbean features it has power steering, a set of Packard Unity fog lights, dual remotely operated spotlights, wide white wall tires, Wonder Bar radio, heater, seat belts and power windows. Caribbeans are rare and very special automobiles. This is an example to take note of.
