At the 1952 New York International Auto Show, Packard showcased an experimental fiberglass-body two-seater dubbed the Pan American. It drew enough attention that the following year Packard launched a production version, the Caribbean. Intended as a response to Cadillac’s limited-production Eldorado, the Richard Teague-styled Caribbean was also a factory “semi-custom,” based upon the production convertible body but highly modified by Mitchell-Bentley of Ionia, Michigan. Included was a full-leather interior, Kelsey-Hayes chrome wire wheels, enlarged wheel openings with flared lips, wide hood scoop, de-chromed body, horizontal taillights, integrated “fishtail” rear fender treatment, front and rear chrome wheel well moldings, continental spare tire, and a special custom paint finish. New four-barrel carburetion on Packard’s venerable 327-cubic-inch straight eight boosted output to 180 horsepower.

Only 750 Caribbeans were produced in the model’s first season, which, also like the Eldorado, proved unique; it was the only year that the Caribbean would feature this styling and drivetrain. Some of America’s most prominent individuals drove these convertibles, and today they are still favored by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

The Caribbean offered here, number 2678-2198, is an early survivor of this rare factory semi-custom. Finished in the subtle and beautiful hue of Dresden Gray, it is equipped with all of the Caribbean’s usual refinements, including power steering and brakes, signal-seeking push-button AM radio with power antenna, dual heater/defroster, and leather upholstery accented by wool carpeting, as well as the very rare and sought-after manual transmission with overdrive. It was formerly owned by longtime Packard enthusiast Roger Gibb of Irvine, California, and participated for many years in Southern California events. On at least one occasion it served parade duty, carrying Apollo astronaut Buzz Aldrin.

The present owner is a well-versed longtime collector of 1950s American automobiles, who notes that it remains in very good overall order, with new wire wheels and a new, fully functional convertible top installed shortly before his purchase.

This is a lovely example of one of Packard’s greatest late-production models, as sought after today as it was when new.