Packard Caribbean
The pinnacle of 1950s American luxury, featuring revolutionary torsion-level suspension and tri-tone style.
- Power
- 275 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.5 s
- Top speed
- 111 mph
- Est. value
- $39k–$132k
About the Packard Caribbean
The 1955 Caribbean represents Packard's final, ambitious attempt to reclaim its status as America's premier luxury marque. Designed by Richard Teague, it debuted the brand's first overhead-valve V8 and the innovative 'Torsion-Level' self-leveling suspension, which provided a ride quality that famously rivalled Cadillac. Distinguished by its standard tri-tone paint schemes and dual 'batwing' air cleaners, it was one of the most expensive and exclusive cars of its era. Today, it is highly prized by collectors as the ultimate expression of the 'Senior' Packard line before the company's decline.
Packard Caribbean specs
The Packard Caribbean produces 275 bhp (205 kW) and 481 Nm (355 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 111 mph (179 km/h).
| Make | Packard |
|---|---|
| Model | Caribbean |
| Trim | 5.9 V8 |
| Years | 1953–1956 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Convertible |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 500 built |
| Original price | About $5,900 when new |
| Engine | 5.8-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,768 cc (5.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 275 bhp (205 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 481 Nm (355 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 10.5 s |
| Top speed | 111 mph (179 km/h) |
| Transmission | 2-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,236 kg (4,930 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 123 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Packard Caribbean worth?
A typical Packard Caribbean is estimated to be worth $39,000 – $132,000 (about £29,000 – £98,000).
Its original price when new was about $5,900.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Packard Caribbean rarity in CarSpot
The Packard Caribbean is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Packard Caribbean fun facts
- The 1955 Caribbean featured a unique 'batwing' air cleaner assembly to house its dual four-barrel Rochester carburetors.
- Its revolutionary Torsion-Level suspension used full-length torsion bars and an electric motor to keep the car level regardless of load.
- With a launch price of nearly $6,000, it was roughly $2,000 more expensive than a standard Cadillac convertible of the same year.
