The 1954 Packard Panther is the fourth of the Panthers to be constructed and was originally owned by Rex Terry, general manager of Creative Industries. Like the first three cars, it featured the 1954 Clipper taillights, before being updated with the 1955 “Cathedral” taillights and bumpers. It should be noted, Panthers were the first Packards to employ a wrap-around windshield, and the front bumpers previewed what would appear on the 1955 Packards. After the update, Terry's was repainted an iridescent pearl over black, and included gold-plated 'V's scripts reading “Creative” at the leading edge of the rear quarters. Panther #4 went through at least five owners before becoming a part of the current Marano collection a few years ago. and occupants and a full-width flat glass windshield gave added protection, which could also be folded down for high speed runs.
Overview
- Production Year: 1954
- Manufacturer: Packard
- Class: Concept car
- Body Style: 2-door convertible
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The Packard Panther was equipped with a 5.9-liter (359 cubic inches) inline-eight engine.
- This engine featured a four-barrel carburetor and was capable of producing around 212 horsepower, providing impressive performance for a car of its time.
- Transmission:
- It came with a 3-speed Ultramatic automatic transmission, known for its smooth and reliable operation.
- Chassis:
- The Panther used a modified version of the standard Packard chassis, tailored to fit its unique body and design.
- Suspension:
- Front: Independent front suspension with coil springs and hydraulic shocks.
- Rear: Live axle with leaf springs and hydraulic shocks, ensuring a comfortable and stable ride.
Performance
- Top Speed: The car could reach speeds of up to 130 mph (209 km/h), making it one of the faster concept cars of its era.
- Acceleration: With its powerful engine and lightweight fiberglass body, the Panther offered brisk acceleration and impressive performance.
- Handling: The Panther was designed to provide a smooth and refined driving experience, characteristic of Packard's luxury ethos.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The body of the Packard Panther was crafted from fiberglass, a relatively new and innovative material at the time, allowing for more creative and aerodynamic designs.
- The car featured sleek, flowing lines, a low-slung profile, and a distinctive front grille, embodying the futuristic styling trends of the 1950s.
- Unique design elements included a wraparound windshield, hidden headlights, and pronounced tailfins, which were popular design cues during the period.
- Interior:
- The interior of the Panther was luxurious and well-appointed, featuring high-quality materials such as leather upholstery and chrome accents.
- It was equipped with advanced instrumentation and controls, highlighting Packard's commitment to innovation and driver comfort.
- The car also featured power windows, power seats, and other modern conveniences that were cutting-edge for the time.
Legacy
- Historical Significance:
- The Packard Panther is an important example of mid-20th-century American automotive design, showcasing the innovative spirit and luxury aspirations of Packard.
- It was a show car intended to demonstrate Packard's capabilities and vision for the future, influencing subsequent production models and design trends.
- Collector's Interest:
- Due to its unique design, limited production (only a few were made), and historical significance, the Packard Panther is highly sought after by collectors and classic car enthusiasts.
You may purchase a print of the 1954 Packard Panther in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.