1946 Packard Custom Super Clipper Eight Limousine

Packard’s 1946 lineup, known as the 21st series, featured the Custom Super Clipper Eight Limousine as its most luxurious and powerful vehicle. The model retained the sleek pre-war Clipper design with minimal changes, and Packard incorporated wartime manufacturing insights into their post-war models.

During World War II, Packard engines played a crucial role in powering allied forces on land and in the air. They produced over 13,000 12-cylinder marine engines for high-speed patrol torpedo boats and manufactured more than 56,000 Rolls-Royce Merlin engines under license, known as the Packard V-1650. These supercharged V-12 aircraft engines propelled renowned British aircraft such as Spitfires, Lancasters, and notably, the North American P-51 Mustang.

The Custom Super Clipper Eight Limousine was built on Packard’s exclusive 148-inch-wheelbase extended chassis, reserved for their prestigious vehicles. Its elegant body lines featured fade-away fenders, and the elongated hood housed the renowned Packard Super Eight engine known for its smooth operation.

Although not as powerful as the V-1650’s 1,400 horsepower, the 356-cubic-inch straight-eight engine produced a leisurely 165 horsepower at 3,600 rpm. With a nine-bearing crankshaft, excellent balance, hydraulic valve lifters, and near-silent running, the engine delivered a refined experience. Power was transmitted through an overdrive transmission.

Additionally, the limousine boasted Safe-T-Flex suspension, ensuring a comfortable ride on any road. It further featured a fifth shock absorber that minimized side-to-side oscillations, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Source: RM Sotheby’s

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