Packard had a leg up on most of its Detroit competition after World War II. Like most manufacturers, it was forced to begin post-war production with a revised version of a pre-war design, which would remain in the offering for three years while a fully “new” car was being developed. Unlike others, however, Packard had the Clipper, which was a new model that had been designed with the input of legendary stylist Howard “Dutch” Darrin and was first introduced in 1941. It was a competitor of the Cadillac Series 60 Special in the new category of owner-driven luxury sedans, as it successfully combined sporty, modern “torpedo” design with traditional Packard luxury and engineering excellence. It looked just as fresh in 1946 as it had in 1941.

For that year, Packard redesigned its entire line around the Clipper, even extending it to its top-of-the-line seven-passenger sedan and limousine. These models were built on an extended 148-inch wheelbase chassis by the Henney Motor Company, of Freeport, Illinois, Packard’s long-serving builder of ambulances and limousines. Henney’s reputation for craftsmanship was legendary, and these cars, essentially the first modern “stretch” limousines, were built with the same care and quality as any coachbuilt automobile, continuing the pre-war tradition begun by Rollston, LeBaron, and others. They were beautifully finished with the finest materials, including beautiful broadcloth upholstery, Mosstred carpeting, and Art Moderne wood-grain and Bakelite trim.

Production of the seven-passenger models was extraordinarily low, and survivors are prized by collectors, not least because they are among the final Packards recognized as Full Classics by the Classic Car Club of America.

This Seven-Passenger Sedan still wears its original firewall tag, identifying it as having been delivered new by Sewickley Sales and Service, located at the corner of Ohio River Road and Chestnut Street in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, on May 29, 1947. For the past several years, it has been part of Mr. and Mrs. Kughn’s collection. This Sedan is finished in Packard Blue and Lowell Gray with a correct broadcloth interior, and most of the chrome trim and interior wood graining is original, as are the finishes under the hood. Overall, the car presents as a good-quality driver, with 60,546 miles that may well be actual mileage from new. It is equipped with chrome wheel covers, folding jump seats, working courtesy lights, a heater, and a radio that can be controlled from both the front and rear seats.

This very rare and special Packard would be an ideal choice for a CARavan or for simply chauffeuring loved ones on special occasions, as it was designed for use by family and friends.