1949 Cadillac Series 62

Description

I don't care what kind of car you're into, this 1949 Cadillac Series 62 convertible is a big deal. Home of the first modern short-stroke V8, it ushered in a new era of performance without which the small block Chevy might never have been born. Of course, the fact that it's also one of the best-looking convertibles of the '40s is only icing on the cake, making it truly as lovely to drive as it is to look at.

GM fans will surely be happy to note that the burgundy paint on this '49 is a correct shade of 1949 Cadillac Madeira Maroon . Tailfins were in their second year and they were a major hit with the car-buying public, and there are more than a few enthusiasts who regard the early P-51 inspired look as the finest of them all. The 1949 Cadillacs were only slightly changed from the 1948s, but since the big news was under the hood, Cadillac was still able to sell every car they could build that year. The restoration on this one is a few years old, but is holding up very nicely and still looks great cruising down the road or at a show. Panel fit is excellent and the doors close with a remarkable solid thunk that you just don't get today, and it's even more remarkable that this is a convertible, not a sedan. Chrome was a big deal in 1949, so the requisite pile of money was invested in bringing it back to new condition and it looks fantastic today.

Nothing radical inside, either, just pure elegance. Pleated leather seats front and rear offer seating for six in a pinch, and make no mistake, this is a very big car. The band of light-colored trim that encircles the interior gives it a modern look, while the body-colored instrument panel again shows some aircraft influences that were popular after the war. A beautifully re-cast steering wheel with horn ring provides first-class control over the machine and yes, this is a Hydra-Matic car, which works well with the power windows, top, and even power seat, to provide a very luxurious environment. The original AM radio still lives in the dash and there's a full array of instruments below the oversized speedometer. The tan top folds quickly and easily, and the trunk is nicely finished with correct bound carpets and a full-sized spare tire.

The 331 cubic inch OHV V8 in this Cadillac was truly revolutionary. 200 pounds lighter than the flathead it replaced, it made more power and torque and got better fuel economy. With its shorter stroke, it didn't mind revving and pulled the heavy luxury car around with real authority. Cadillac Blue engine paint, white script on the valve covers, and all the original accessories make for a nicely detailed engine bay that looks right. Now before you dismiss the early automatic transmission, take it for a drive. Remember that it has lower gearing in first and second to really rocket off the line and out back, there are lower 3.36 gears, making it a superlative highway cruiser. Honestly, if you want a late-40s Cadillac, a Hydra-Matic is the only way to go. It also sounds great with a single exhaust and modern 235/75/15 whitewall radials provide an exemplary ride with a vintage look.

This is a very big deal car, and '49 convertibles don't come on the market very often. This is the godfather of all performance cars, clothed in some of the most dramatic sheetmetal of the era. Call today!