Creating a standout parade car often means looking beyond standard vehicles. For those seeking a truly unique and eye-catching option for hire, converting a classic Packard into a custom convertible presents an exciting possibility. While building a full convertible with a working top might be complex, focusing on a parade-ready design, especially from a robust base like a vintage Packard, opens up a world of distinctive style.
Starting with a sturdy 4-door hardtop is key for such a project. Cars from the sixties or seventies, like large Buicks or Chryslers, offer inherent frame strength and frameless windows, simplifying the conversion process. However, for a touch of unparalleled vintage elegance, a 4-door Packard provides an exceptional foundation. By removing the roof and side window frames entirely, and focusing on an open-air touring car aesthetic, a Packard can be transformed into a breathtaking parade vehicle available for hire.
Alt text: A gleaming black classic Packard car with chrome accents, showcasing its potential as a convertible hire vehicle.
The initial and crucial step in this transformation is reinforcing the car’s structure. Before any cutting begins, frame and body strengthening is paramount. Removing the roof compromises structural integrity, potentially leading to sagging and misalignment. Therefore, mirroring factory convertible frame reinforcements is advisable. Adding substantial supports to the rocker panels, bracing the door posts, and reinforcing the cowl area are essential steps to maintain rigidity and ensure a safe and sound vehicle.
Once the structural enhancements are complete, the roof removal can proceed. Deciding on the car’s ultimate purpose – whether strictly for fair weather use or potentially needing a removable top – will dictate the next steps. For a dedicated parade car intended for hire, eliminating the roof and window frames permanently simplifies the design. In such cases, a custom-fitted vinyl tonneau cover to protect the interior from the elements, coupled with durable vinyl upholstery, becomes a practical consideration.
Alt text: A Packard car undergoing convertible conversion, highlighting the frame reinforcement process and open-top design for potential hire.
To maximize its appeal as a parade car for hire, consider passenger comfort and visual impact. Creating a padded bench seat where the rear package shelf once was provides comfortable seating for riders. A vibrant primary color paint job and wide whitewall tires will enhance the car’s classic charm and visibility, ensuring it becomes a head-turning centerpiece for any event.
While undertaking such a conversion requires skilled craftsmanship, the investment can yield a truly unique vehicle. Hiring an experienced body shop for the conversion could range from $5,000 to $10,000, but the result is a custom Packard convertible, ready to be hired for parades, special events, and memorable occasions – a vehicle that will undoubtedly impress and stand out from the crowd.
