Here’s a detailed look at Packard’s startling new development in ride and handling for 1955, Torsion-Level Suspension.

Several years ago, we published a story and short video on Packard’s revolutionary 1955 chassis development, Torsion Level Suspension. (Video: Packard Torsion-Level Suspension; January 31, 2016.) Now, thanks to the Detroit Historical Society, we have a longer film (9 minutes and change) produced by Packard back in 1955 that drills down deeper into the fascinating suspension design.

As gearheads all know, the big American cars of the 1950s were famous for their extremely soft spring rates, which provided a lush and luxurious ride but with some unfortunate handling traits, including excessive pitch and roll. They were perfect for the boulevard, but on winding and bumpy country roads, they could be downright scary.

Packard addressed the problem with a clever arrangement of torsion bars on all four wheels that coupled the front and rear ride motions together. That was the essence of Torsion-Level Ride. And while the system did have some self-leveling load capability, the name actually referred to a more important characteristic: Squat under acceleration and nose dive under braking were effectively eliminated—the chassis remained level in pitch. The ride was as cloud-like as any car then on the market, but without the frightening road habits.

Unfortunately, just as Packard was introducing its advanced new suspension system, the grand old company was also going out of business. When the last 1956 Detroit-built Packard rolled off the line, Torsion-Level Ride was finished as well. And meanwhile, America’s expanding interstate highway system was rapidly decreasing the need for such costly and sophisticated solutions. Otherwise, all American cars might be using similar systems today, arguably. It’s fun to contemplate, anyway. Video below.