1951 Mayfair
owned by Bill Orley and Max Silver
The
Mayfair
model was introduced in 1951 as Packard’s answer to the Hardtop Convertible
craze that was going on during that period.
It originally came out in the 200 series, but the powers-that-be soon
realized the plain appearance of the car would not attract the type of clientele
that was desired. Thus it became the
250 series with the senior grille, 327 engine and other amenities, including a
nicer interior. The name was taken
from the tony Mayfair District in
London
to give it the necessary lofty status that a new Packard model deserved.
Production numbers for the individual models are not available, but the
1951
Mayfair
is quite rare, as there are currently only two listed in both national club
rosters.
Our
1951
Mayfair
was originally sold in July 1951 by Heinrich Motors of Compton, CA. to Mr.
Harold Donath who bought the car as a 10th wedding anniversary
present for his wife Dorothy. The
car remained in California, other than some cross country trips by the original
owners, until we purchased it in July of 2001.
Bill originally “discovered” it while attending the PI National Meet
that year. Discreet inquiries, numerous phone calls, correspondence, and a
one-day trip to San Gabriel, CA. finally culminated in our owning the car.
It arrived in Chehalis by auto transport in August of 2001.
Max’s initial apprehension quickly dissipated when he saw the car.
The car is painted in Packard colors Sunset Red and
Twilight Taupe, an unusual but striking combination.
It is nicely equipped with radio, heater, power antenna, clock, rear seat
speaker and rear window defroster. Max
performed extensive re-wiring and Gary Russell rebuilt the engine, Ultramatic
transmission and rear-end. New front
springs were installed and the steering was rebuilt by a local Chehalis shop.
It is an excellent handling car, and with the lighter body and larger
engine, it has plenty of power. It
is a fun car to drive and will be seen on many tours in the future.
