Image of 1956 Packard Four-Hundred, sourced from www.tomlaferriere.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Elegance of the 1956 Packard Four-Hundred

The year 1956 brought forth a machine that would etch its mark in automotive history – the Packard Four-Hundred. Born from the prestigious Packard Motor Car Company, this vehicle was a testament to luxury and advanced engineering. The Four-Hundred model, part of Packard's Senior line, was a beacon of post-war American opulence and a symbol of status during its era. A notable moment in its history was when it featured Packard's first use of torsion bar suspension, setting a new standard for ride comfort.

Design and Innovation

With its sleek contours and chrome accents, the 1956 Packard Four-Hundred's exterior styling was a sight to behold. The car's imposing grille and signature cathedral taillights were emblematic of the era's design ethos. Inside, passengers were enveloped in luxury with rich leather upholstery and fine wood trimmings. Technologically ahead of its time, it boasted features like push-button Ultramatic transmission and power assists that were cutting-edge. Color options ranged from deep Patrician Blue to classic Dover White, with the tri-tone paint schemes being particularly coveted by enthusiasts. The two-door hardtop body style was the most iconic, embodying the grandeur of the Packard marque.

Historical Significance

The 1956 Packard Four-Hundred played a pivotal role in setting new benchmarks for automotive comfort and technology. Its torsion-level suspension was revolutionary, offering an almost glide-like ride quality that was unrivaled by its contemporaries. This innovation left an indelible mark on automotive engineering, influencing future suspension systems.

Performance and Handling

The heart of the Four-Hundred was its 374 cubic inch V8 engine, propelling the car to impressive speeds for its size. With a top speed nearing 110 mph and capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in under 12 seconds, it balanced performance with poise. The handling was remarkably smooth, absorbing road imperfections with ease thanks to its advanced suspension system. Driving this car was an auditory delight as well; the engine's purr was music to any auto aficionado's ears.

Ownership Experience

The 1956 Packard Four-Hundred found its place as both a daily driver for the well-heeled and a showpiece for collectors. Its reliability was commendable for the time, though modern-day owners should be prepared for the intricacies involved in maintaining such a classic piece of machinery.

Fun Facts

This majestic vehicle has graced both roads and screens alike, often associated with affluence in period films. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set standards in luxury and ride quality. Criticisms were few but did include its hefty fuel consumption – a small price to pay for such grandeur.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1956 Packard Four-Hundred is a cherished collector's item with values ranging significantly based on condition and originality. Production numbers were limited as Packard neared the end of its era, adding to the rarity of this model. A well-preserved example could fetch anywhere from $20,000 to over $60,000 depending on various factors including provenance and authenticity.

Conclusion

The 1956 Packard Four-Hundred is more than just a car; it is a rolling sculpture that embodies the pinnacle of mid-50s luxury. Its legacy is one of innovation and elegance – an enduring testament to Packard's commitment to excellence that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Accelerator Pedal Pad. 1-7/8" X 9-3/8", Each-AP 16Accelerator Pedal Pad. 1-7/8" X 9-3/8", Each

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high-BN 1Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high., with 7/16" I.D. Each

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D-BN 20Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D. X 1-5/8" high, with 9/16" I.D. Each

1956 Packard Four-Hundred 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

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Antenna Pad. 1-7/8" O.D. Each-MP 854-AAntenna Pad. 1-7/8" O.D. Each

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Trunk Bumper. 3/4" O.D., 5/8" I.D. Each-SB 74Trunk Bumper. 3/4" O.D., 5/8" I.D. Each

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Rear Roll-up Window Seals, for Hardtops and Convertibles-VS 7Rear Roll-up Window Seals, for Hardtops and Convertibles. For leading edge of rear quarter windows. Two pieces, 17-3/4" long. Pair

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Flexible window channel-WC 10-96Flexible window channel. Rubber covered with mohair lining and stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Rigid division-bar run channel-WC 31-96Rigid division-bar run channel. Made with very soft felt lining. Used on front and rear door side windows. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 4-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1956 Packard Four-Hundred Flexible window sweeper-WC 5-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with black electro-plated steel. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.