When the once-mighty Packard released its 1953 Packard Caribbean, sporty cars weren’t attracting many sales in the ’50s. However, they sure attracted buyer attention that helped move less interesting stuff. The brainchild of new company president James Nance, the flashy, top-line 1953 Packard Caribbean convertible was part of his effort to restore Packard’s pure-luxury image and thus boost sales after years of decline from an over-reliance on medium-price cars. For 1954 the Caribbean added flat-top rear wheel arches (for a longer look) and standard two-tone paint, radio, heater, power seats, and power windows. What’s more, its engine was pushed to 359 cid and 212 horsepower — America’s most potent postwar straight eight — while price was optimistically pushed to $6100. “There is no more glamorous car than the new Packard Caribbean,” brochures exclaimed. “The swank continental look will turn all eyes.” This car is an excellent restored example equipped with all the options.