In the years following World War II, the automotive market combined a heady mixture of seemingly insatiable design with the anticipation of the new designs that were yet to come. Although Packard did not have the resources of the big three, the company was in many ways in better shape as the pre-war Clipper had been a clean-sheet design, and was easily one of the most modern cars on the market.

Nonetheless, if the Clipper had a failing, it was in the limited variety of body styles available: a two-door coupe and a four-door sedan. The author had the opportunity to speak directly with several of the individuals involved in this project, from Mr. John E. Morgan’s original conception of the design through the completion of the car as it is today.

Mr. Morgan’s ambition was to create the sporting automobile that Packard never did. As a result, he located an excellent original Packard Clipper sedan, and embarked upon an ambitious project to design and build the car illustrated here. Cost was no object, and indeed, the museum’s detailed records show a finished cost of more than $160,000.

The result, however, speaks for itself. There is no denying the unique character and appeal of this one-of-a-kind Packard Speedster. Since the car was to be a custom creation, many modern amenities were added-- including power windows and seats.

Finished in a rich dark maroon accented with black fenders, the interior is trimmed in burgundy colored leather. The dash is wood-grained, in keeping with the best Packard practice. The instruments, while period in appearance, are in fact modern. The top is smartly trimmed in black Haartz cloth fabric.

The engine bay has benefited from a thorough detailing, incorporating several rare period speed parts, including a polished aluminum Edmonds cylinder head and a dual carburetor manifold and breather setup. Similarly, the undercarriage has been carefully detailed to show condition.

With few miles since completion, this remarkable Packard offers the opportunity to acquire a unique example of what Packard might have built. With performance and style beyond anything Packard ever built, this one-of-a-kind Packard is certain to turn heads wherever it goes.