Ad for Quaker State Motor Oil in “The Saturday Evening Post,” October 20, 1956.
“And Quaker State is years ahead, too!”
“This is no ordinary motor oil. It is rich, remarkable Quaker State Super Blend . . . a super-refined, all-weather oil of such quality that it surpasses even the rigorous requirements of tomorrow’s motors. . .” [From the ad copy]
In keeping with the reference to “tomorrow’s motors,” the ad features five futuristic concept cars: 1956 Packard Predictor (top left); 1956 Pontiac Club De Mer (top right); 1956 Oldsmobile Golden Rocket (center left); 1954 Ford Atmos (center right); and 1955 Chrysler Falcon (bottom left).
Of the five, the Packard Predictor is probably the least familiar, so here are some highlights:
The Predictor debuted at the 1956 Chicago Auto Show. Designed by Richard Teague and built by Carrozzeria Ghia in Italy, it was a true "dream car" of its time. It featured scalloped fenders, a long flat hood, and distinctive tail fins. The wraparound windshield and hidden quad headlights added to its modern look. It had four individual seats with reversible cushions (fabric on one side, leather on the other) and a center console running the length of the cabin.
The car included an electronic push-button Ultramatic transmission, electric servos for the roof panels and windows, and a retractable roof. Powered by a 300-horsepower, 374-cubic-inch Packard V-8 engine, it also featured torsion-level suspension for a smooth ride. Despite its groundbreaking design, the Predictor couldn't save the Packard brand, which ceased production in 1957. However, its influence can still be seen in the designs of other automakers, and one of these visionary cars has been preserved for future generations. It is on display at the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend, Indiana.
Ad for Quaker State Motor Oil in “The Saturday Evening Post,” October 20, 1956.
“And Quaker State is years ahead, too!”
“This is no ordinary motor oil. It is rich, remarkable Quaker State Super Blend . . . a super-refined, all-weather oil of such quality that it surpasses even the rigorous requirements of tomorrow’s motors. . .” [From the ad copy]
In keeping with the reference to “tomorrow’s motors,” the ad features five futuristic concept cars: 1956 Packard Predictor (top left); 1956 Pontiac Club De Mer (top right); 1956 Oldsmobile Golden Rocket (center left); 1954 Ford Atmos (center right); and 1955 Chrysler Falcon (bottom left).
Of the five, the Packard Predictor is probably the least familiar, so here are some highlights:
The Predictor debuted at the 1956 Chicago Auto Show. Designed by Richard Teague and built by Carrozzeria Ghia in Italy, it was a true "dream car" of its time. It featured scalloped fenders, a long flat hood, and distinctive tail fins. The wraparound windshield and hidden quad headlights added to its modern look. It had four individual seats with reversible cushions (fabric on one side, leather on the other) and a center console running the length of the cabin.
The car included an electronic push-button Ultramatic transmission, electric servos for the roof panels and windows, and a retractable roof. Powered by a 300-horsepower, 374-cubic-inch Packard V-8 engine, it also featured torsion-level suspension for a smooth ride. Despite its groundbreaking design, the Predictor couldn't save the Packard brand, which ceased production in 1957. However, its influence can still be seen in the designs of other automakers, and one of these visionary cars has been preserved for future generations. It is on display at the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend, Indiana.