In the years following World War II, Packard sought to demonstrate its engineering prowess with a model that epitomized luxury and innovation. The 1946 Packard Custom Super Clipper Eight Limousine, part of the 21st series, was the pinnacle of the company’s post-war lineup. Known for its combination of stunning design, technical refinement, and powerful performance, the Clipper became an icon of its time. Although much of its styling was derived from pre-war designs, the improvements in its engineering and the experience gained from Packard’s wartime contributions made it an exceptional choice for those seeking the finest in automotive luxury.
A Luxurious Legacy: The Design and Styling of the Custom Super Clipper
The Packard Custom Super Clipper was built on an extended 148-inch wheelbase, making it the longest and most luxurious model in the Packard fleet. The car’s elegant appearance was defined by its distinctive fade-away fenders and sweeping body lines, which were accentuated by the long hood. These design elements were part of Packard’s effort to create a vehicle that combined a powerful presence with refined beauty. The craftsmanship and attention to detail were immediately evident in the car’s profile, which stood out as a symbol of the sophistication and grandeur of the time.
As the first post-war model produced by Packard, the Custom Super Clipper retained the rakish lines of the pre-war Clipper but also incorporated subtle refinements. The car’s 356-cubic-inch straight-eight engine was designed to deliver smooth power without compromising on comfort, and its sheer size and elegance made it a standout in the automotive world. The limousine’s extended chassis was specifically reserved for Packard’s prestige models, reinforcing its status as a luxurious vehicle.
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Watch the video to follow the legendary 1946 Packard Clipper’s journey of escape and restoration with Paul Rusnak, featured on Jay Leno’s Garage!
Wartime Engineering Translated into Post-War Innovation
Packard’s success during World War II in manufacturing marine and aircraft engines gave the company a unique advantage when developing its post-war models. The company produced over 13,000 12-cylinder engines for PT boats and over 56,000 V-12 engines, which powered iconic aircraft like the British Spitfire and the North American P-51 Mustang. This engineering experience played a significant role in shaping the company’s approach to the Custom Super Clipper, as Packard sought to incorporate advanced technology and manufacturing techniques into its civilian vehicles.
The 165-horsepower engine was coupled with hydraulic valve lifters, which provided near-silent operation, and the nine-bearing crankshaft was designed to enhance both power delivery and balance. With its overdrive transmission and Safe-T-Flex suspension system, the Clipper promised a smooth, comfortable ride, and its fifth shock absorber helped eliminate side-to-side oscillations. These features worked together to ensure that the vehicle’s performance was as refined as its appearance, providing a ride that was both quiet and powerful.
Performance and Power: More Than Just a Beautiful Ride
Despite the Clipper’s massive size, its V-8 engine performed with surprising agility, capable of reaching speeds of up to 87 mph and accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just over 16 seconds. Although not a race car, the Custom Super Clipper’s performance was more than sufficient for everyday driving and offered a smooth, luxurious experience for its owners.
The powertrain, which included a straight-eight engine with a single carburetor, was reliable and delivered a controlled, refined drive. While the engine’s output might not match the high-performance V-1650 engines Packard had developed for military applications, it was more than enough to power this iconic limousine. The driving experience, while not as fast as some of its competitors, remained notably smooth thanks to its engineering pedigree and design excellence.
Packard’s Legacy in Classic Car Events and Its Lasting Influence
The Packard Custom Super Clipper continues to be celebrated in classic car circles. Its contributions to the world of vintage automobiles have been recognized by multiple organizations, including the Antique Automobile Club of America and the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA), where it has earned the status of an approved Full Classic. Additionally, it holds Milestone car status with the Vintage Motor Car Club of America, a designation reserved for significant automotive models that have had a profound impact on the history of car manufacturing.
The Custom Super Clipper’s enduring appeal can also be attributed to its participation in prestigious events and its reputation as a meticulously engineered vehicle. The limousine’s rare combination of luxury, performance, and historical importance has made it a coveted collector’s item. Though it may have been overlooked during its time, today, it is appreciated as a symbol of a golden era in automotive design and engineering.
Restoration and Maintenance: Keeping the Clipper’s Legacy Alive
Over the years, the Packard Custom Super Clipper has undergone a comprehensive restoration to preserve its original beauty and performance. The extensive body-off-frame restoration and engine overhaul ensured that the car remained true to its original form, with the use of genuine Packard parts. Additional work in 2010 ensured that the engine continued to run smoothly and efficiently, and today, the limousine remains in excellent condition despite showing some signs of age and wear.
The car’s front chauffeur’s seat, in particular, shows evidence of wear from years of use, adding a touch of authenticity to the vehicle’s history. The documentation and invoices for work performed over the years reflect the care and attention to detail given to this classic automobile, ensuring its continued legacy for future generations.
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Check out the video to experience a test drive of the 1947 Packard Custom Super Clipper Club Sedan!
Conclusion: A Symbol of Post-War Luxury and Engineering Excellence
The 1946 Packard Custom Super Clipper Eight Limousine remains one of the most iconic post-war vehicles. With its timeless design, advanced engineering, and luxurious features, the Custom Super Clipper is a testament to Packard’s commitment to quality and innovation. Whether admired for its styling, its performance, or its historical significance, this vehicle continues to captivate classic car enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Today, the Packard Custom Super Clipper represents not only a remarkable piece of automotive history but also a symbol of the luxurious and technologically advanced vehicles that defined an era. Its continued preservation and celebration in car shows and collections around the world ensure that Packard’s legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of automotive designers and enthusiasts.
