Image of 1947 Packard Clipper 6, sourced from www.hagerty.com , Image Link.

Introduction

Stepping into the limelight with a blend of elegance and post-war optimism, the 1947 Packard Clipper 6 stands as a testament to American luxury and engineering prowess. Born from the storied Packard Motor Car Company, this vehicle emerged as a beacon of progress in an era rapidly transforming from the austerity of wartime to the abundance of peacetime. The Clipper series, originally introduced in 1941, was reimagined after World War II, with the '47 model marking a significant return to civilian automotive excellence. A unique fact that entices enthusiasts is that the '47 Clipper was among the first cars to be designed by a prestigious team led by Howard "Dutch" Darrin, setting a benchmark for future automotive designs.

Design and Innovation

The 1947 Packard Clipper 6 boasted an exterior that exuded gravitas and grace. Its sweeping lines and broad shoulders conveyed a sense of motion even at a standstill. The iconic grille, with its vertical bars, became a symbol of the brand's prestige. Inside, passengers were enveloped in luxury with plush seating and high-quality materials like wool broadcloth and richly grained wood accents. Technologically, it featured advancements such as an optional overdrive system for improved fuel efficiency—a rarity for its time. Color options ranged from stately blacks and blues to vibrant reds, with Egyptian Sand being a particularly popular hue. The four-door sedan was the quintessential body style that captured the hearts of post-war America.

Historical Significance

The 1947 Packard Clipper 6 didn't just transport people; it transported the automotive industry into a new era. It set itself apart with its construction quality and attention to detail, influencing subsequent designs across manufacturers. Its legacy is evident in how it bridged pre-war luxury with post-war innovation, setting a precedent for what American cars could aspire to be in terms of comfort and performance.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stately exterior, the Clipper 6 housed an inline six-cylinder engine that delivered smooth yet spirited performance. While top speeds and acceleration figures may seem modest by today's standards, for its time, it was quite capable of holding its own on burgeoning interstate systems. Handling was characterized by a reassuring heft that communicated road conditions without compromising on comfort. Driving one today, one can expect to hear the distinct hum of its era-specific powertrain as it glides over road imperfections with poise.

Ownership Experience

The 1947 Packard Clipper 6 found its place as a daily driver for the discerning gentleman or showpiece for the classic car aficionado. Its reliability was commendable for its age, though modern owners should be prepared for the nuances of maintaining such a historic piece. Parts can be scarce but are treasured within dedicated communities of Packard enthusiasts.

Fun Facts

Did you know that some Packard Clippers were custom-built into Henney ambulances? Or that notable figures like President Truman were often seen riding in Packards? Despite criticisms about its conservative styling compared to European contemporaries, the Clipper maintained strong sales figures thanks to its solid reputation.

Collector's Information

In today's market, a well-preserved 1947 Packard Clipper 6 can fetch anywhere from $12,000 to $50,000 depending on condition and provenance. Production numbers were relatively high for luxury vehicles of the time but finding one in pristine condition is increasingly rare. As appreciation grows for post-war classics, values are steadily climbing.

Conclusion

The 1947 Packard Clipper 6 is more than just a vintage car; it's a rolling piece of history that encapsulates America's transition into modernity post-World War II. Its design language spoke volumes about what Americans valued—luxury, innovation, and reliability—all wrapped up in an automobile that continues to turn heads decades later.

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Accessory Floor Mat - 12"X17"-AC 32Accessory Floor Mat - made of high quality black rubber with molded original emblem. Also designed to be sewn into new carpets. 12"X17", Each

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Accelerator Pedal Pad. 1-7/8" X 9-3/8", Each-AP 16Accelerator Pedal Pad. 1-7/8" X 9-3/8", Each

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Door Bumper. 1-3/8" high X 2" wide X 1/2" thick. Each-DB 29Door Bumper. 1-3/8" high X 2" wide X 1/2" thick. Each

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/2" I.D., 4-1/8" O.D. Each-GF 12Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/2" I.D., 4-1/8" O.D. Each

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Hood Corners. 1-3/4" to 2" corner radius-HC 14Hood Corners. 1-3/4" to 2" corner radius. Pad is 3-3/8" long. Pair

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Door side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal-LP 40-ADoor side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Universal seal for street rods and customs. Used in Cobra kit cars as door weatherstrip. Per foot.

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Tail-light Pads. 3-3/4" wide X 8-1/8" long. Pair R&L-MP 903-CTail-light Pads. 3-3/4" wide X 8-1/8" long. Pair R&L

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Front lower rubber insulating cushion-RP 72-CFront lower rubber insulating cushion. For motor support at timing-gear cover. 2-7/16 in. wide x 3-3/8 in. long. 1-13/16 in. long center hole. Replaces OEM# 300227. Two used per car. Each.

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Trunk Bumper. 3/4" O.D., 5/8" I.D. Each-SB 74Trunk Bumper. 3/4" O.D., 5/8" I.D. Each

1947 Packard CLIPPER 6 Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 8-72Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. Used on inner and outer beltlines. Also forms easily for use with sliding quarter windows. 72 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned into two equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.