Vehicle Description
Cadillacs were truly the envy of the world when this 1954 Series 65
hardtop was built. Cutting-edge technology, big performance, and
unparalleled eye appeal made them unquestionably "the Standard of
the World." Today, they still carry a legendary reputation, and if
you're the sort who likes traditional American luxury, there aren't
many better examples than this.
While the legend of the pink Cadillac has grown, the '50s were full
of fun pastels, many of which are handsome in their own right,
despite not being something you'd consider without seeing it first.
The lovely Apollo Gold over Driftwood combination on this big
hardtop is a great example, and now that you've seen it, it's
striking in a low-profile kind of way. It also helps minimize the
enormous size of the Series 62, even the 2-doors, which were
wonderfully opulent machines. With great bodywork that emphasizes
the generous curves, up to and including the P51-inspired tailfins,
which had not yet grown to grotesque proportions. Chrome, and there
is A LOT of it here, is also very impressive, from the pointed
"Dagmars" up front (look it up) to the distinctive faux air vents
just behind the rear doors that were a 1954 exclusive. Even the
original EZI glass is still in place and all but unobtainable
today.
The interior is done in period style, with tufted seats that
emulate the original look with the comfort of a more breathable
fabric (the original was probably a combination of vinyl and some
synthetic cloth). Two wide bench seats provide unparalleled
comfort, and legroom is expansive front and rear. Matching door
panels, carpets, and contrasting gray paint on the dash give it a
cosmopolitan air that suggests an artist at work here, and all the
little trim bits shine brightly. Note that this car carries power
windows, a power front seat, and its original AM radio (with a
modern AM/FM/CD/USB/AUX unit tucked away in the glovebox), as well
as an Autronic Eye that was the latest in 1950s tech. Jet-age
styling dominates the instrument panel and steering wheel, which is
simply gorgeous. The massive trunk has been upholstered to match,
and tastefully carries its spare inside along with a complete jack
assembly.
Cadillac's 331 cubic inch V8 engine was still the talk of the
industry. A punched-out version of the original short-stroke,
high-compression V8, it was the motor of choice in the fastest
home-built hot rods as well as Sydney Allard's stunning performance
machines. In the big Caddy, performance is brisk, with a smooth,
expensive-sounding hum from the well-damped dual exhaust system.
The engine bay appears to be highly original, with Cadillac Blue
paint still clinging to the block, an original air cleaner, and all
the accessories intact. The Hydramatic automatic transmission is a
durable, reliable piece, don't let anyone tell you otherwise, and
this big yacht will cruise at modern highway speeds effortlessly.
Power steering and brakes are mandatory on a beast this size, and
original-style bias-ply whitewalls wear Cadillac wheelcovers.
Nothing could touch Cadillac's combination of luxury and
performance in the '50s, and it made them an icon, even six decades
later. Find out why and call today!
