Vehicle Description
I don't care what kind of car you're into, this 1950 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
period 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 glossy black paint on
this '50 has a period-correct look, which only comes from age. It's
not original, of course, but the finish is about 30 years old, so
it has a wonderful soft shine that works extremely well on the
curvaceous Cadillac bodywork. Tailfins were in their third 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 1950 Cadillacs were significantly
changed from the 1949s, but it was still the envy of the industry
and Cadillac was able to sell every car they could build that year.
The restoration 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 1950, and thought it would be
expensive to make perfect, it's in very good condition and it looks
right on the car today.
Nothing radical inside, either, just pure elegance. Pleated red
leather seats front and rear offer seating for six in a pinch, and
make no mistake, this is a very big car. The leather is original
and beautifully preserved, while the body-colored instrument panel
with its light accent band shows some aircraft influences that were
popular after the war. A ivory plastic steering wheel with horn
ring provides first-class control over the machine (cracks are
inevitable after all these years) 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 is still fully operational 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 original
mats 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. Original Cadillac Blue engine paint,
white script on the valve covers, and all the original accessories
make for a nicely preserved engine bay that looks right for its
age. 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 50s Cadillac, a Hydra-Matic is the only way to go. It
also sounds great with a single exhaust and modern L78-15 whitewall
tires provide a vintage look.
This is a very big deal car, and 1950 Cadillac 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!