1947 Cadillac Series 60

Description

Big black Cadillacs have always been a first-class way to travel, and this 1947 Series 60 four-door delivers modern luxury with a timeless '40s look. Cadillac's stunning sweeping fenders combine with a big block under the hood to deliver a car that runs every bit as well as it looks.

Nobody who sees this car doesn't know what it is-somehow people are able to instinctively recognize a Cadillac when they see it. Of course, it doesn't hurt when the workmanship is this good, because it shows everyone that the car was worth refinishing to a very high level. The deep black paint doesn't allow you to hide anything, so it's obvious that someone invested a lot of time and effort to get it this straight. Fit and finish are excellent, and with new weather stripping throughout, this vintage Cadillac seals up almost as well as a new one and delivers that feeling of isolation for which Cadillac has been famous for decades. No liberties were taken with the original design during the upgrades, and all the factory trim was refinished, polished, and re-chromed , including the massive grille and bumpers. It's impressive.

Restored with an eye on the past but eager to include modern conveniences, the interior is a delightful place to spend some time. The original seats have been upholstered in more contemporary gray tweed, which is both comfortable and breathes well, and it looks right at home in the big, black sedan. Custom door panels reflect the original design in their button-tufted pattern, and all the original garnish moldings and hardware have been preserved. The original dash houses a fresh billet panel full of classic VDO gauges with art-deco pointers and vintage markings. Of course, things like A/C, a tilt column, automatic transmission, and a powerful AM/FM/cassette stereo are part of the package, making this a true no-compromises cruiser.

To move all this sheetmetal, you need a lot of engine, and this one doesn't disappoint with a built 396 cubic inch big block Chevy under that long, pointed hood. It's a super-sanitary installation whose subdued use of polished aluminum and a minimum of flash makes it look almost OEM. An Edelbrock carburetor and intake feeds the fuel, and it exhales through a dual exhaust system that's appropriately muted for this car's personality. The A/C is R134a, the radiator is massive, and power steering and brakes make it easy to handle around town despite its size. The suspension has been suitably upgraded with disc brakes, tube shocks all around, as well as front and rear sway bars so the ride and handling are surprisingly modern. A TH400 3-speed automatic manages gear swaps effortlessly, and the car cruises at highway speeds with barely more than a whisper. The finishing touch are a set of 15-inch steel wheels with Cadillac wire wheel covers and wearing 215/75/15 whitewall radials.