5 The Packard Monte Carlo Hardtop Coupe: 127 inch wheelbase The first car built would be the Monte Carlo Hardtop Coupe based on the longer wheelbase Custom 8 Convertible. The Monte Carlo Hardtop showcased several unique features: • The exterior stock badging was removed and a signature “Monte Carlo” script was added on each front fender • A newly styled Packard emblem was affixed to the front grille, the trunk and on each front fender • A stylish new hardtop was fitted • The rear of the car was redesigned with unique taillights and styling • The front wheel well openings were dropped approximately 6 inches to give the entire car a lower more sleek appearance • Two-tone paint was used to making the car appear more sleek and speedy in design • This look was magnified with a series of horizonal chrome trim added to each side of the car • The front grille was shortened and lowered and inset fog lights were added • The hood was reshaped to fit the new lower grille • Arbib added a subtle element of design to the Monte Carlo—a custom Cormorant hood ornament that was comprised of both clear acrylic and steel. This design was only seen on the Monte Carlo Packard. The Monte Carlo Hardtop Coupe was a stylish Packard that made an immediate impression to anyone who saw the car. This full-form hardtop coupe design was built using clay as a mock-up—a car that could be seen but not driven. It was shown to Packard as a possible way to move forward with a new model for their 1949-1950 line-up.
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