1947 Packard Custom Super Clipper Touring Sedan

Following World War II, Packard introduced its Twenty-First Series vehicles, available for the 1946 and 1947 model years. This lineup comprised ten models across four series: Clipper Six, Clipper DeLuxe Eight, Super Clipper Eight, and the premium Custom Super Clipper Eight.

The top-tier series included two models with a 148-inch wheelbase—a seven-passenger sedan and a limousine—alongside the 127-inch-wheelbase Club Sedan and Touring Sedan. The Touring Sedan initially priced at $3274, later increased to $3449 within the same model year.

The vehicle featured Packard's most robust engine, a 165-horsepower 356-cubic-inch straight-eight with a nine-main-bearing crankshaft and quiet hydraulic valve lifters. The Custom Super Clipper showcased unique interior details, including premium carpeting, broadcloth and leather seats, and faux wood paneling.

Neil Torrence of Arcadia, California, shares that his car was first sold on September 10, 1947, in Long Island, New York. It later moved to Atlanta before settling in California. The car is equipped with a Philco push-button radio featuring a roof-mounted retractable antenna, a Goddess-of-Speed hood ornament, custom cloisonné and dove wings replacing the front license plate, a heater, defroster, and overdrive ("essential for cruising over 100 mph, which it handles effortlessly," Neil notes).

Classic Cars Image Gallery

Neil's Packard is also equipped with an Electromatic clutch, recognizable by its red clutch pedal. This vacuum-and-electric relay system, available from 1941 to 1950, removed the need for manual clutch operation, though gear shifting was still required.

The Custom Super Clipper was a rare sight even in its time, with only 5,690 Club and Touring Sedans produced in 1947. These vehicles are highly regarded as luxury icons, earning Milestone status from the Milestone Car Society and full classic recognition from the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA). Neil's stunning 99-point model (with engine number F520229 and body number 7879) is the last known classic Packard in existence. It also made history as the second postwar Packard to win the CCCA Senior Class competition, securing the 1986 Paul Cerf trophy.

Neil's Custom Super Clipper, purchased in 1984, has garnered numerous accolades, including CCCA National First Place Primary in 1985, Best of Show (Post War) at the Packards International Grand Salon in 1985, and Best of Show at the Packard Automobile Classics Annual Los Angeles Concours in 1986.

To explore further details about automobiles, check out: