Vehicle Description
After World War II, most manufacturers needed time to retool
equipment for new automotive features coming from the design
department. At Cadillac, the first major redesign came about in
1948 when both the Series 61 and Series 62 shared the same C-body
platform with 126-inch wheelbase. A new feature inspired by the
Lockhead P-38 Lightning fighter plane introduced the subtle rear
tailfins that housed the taillights. As with years past, Cadillac
used the tried-and-true 346ci L-Head V8 across their entire model
lineup as the powerplant. Still optional, but gaining traction
amongst consumers, was the General Motors Hydra-Matic transmission
first introduced in 1941. Advertised as the "The Gentle Art of
Motoring" for providing effortless acceleration and smooth shifting
from the automatic transmission. Inside the passenger compartment,
the 1948 Cadillac featured a one year only rainbow dash
instrumentation cluster. A design that still captivates the eye of
everyone who sits behind the steering wheel!
We are delighted to offer this beautifully restored 1948 Cadillac
Series 61 Club Coupe, also referred to as the Sedanette Fastback by
enthusiasts, finished in gorgeous high gloss Black over Tan dual
cord broadcloth! Still powered by its original, factory issued
346ci V8 producing 150 horsepower and 283 ft lobs of torque through
a Hydra-Matic transmission and 3.77:1 rear axle gearing. Features
and accessories include working AM pushbutton radio,
heater/defrost, working electric dash clock, rear assist handles,
courtesy map light, carpeted front floor mats, cigar lighter,
day/night Glareproof mirror, windshield washer system, locking
glovebox, reverse light, fender skirts, stainless fender guards,
full chrome wheel covers, Auburn Deluxe 8.20R15 tubeless radial
wide whitewall tires, and engine oil filtration system.
This stunning example has been in the same family estate since
1963, having been carefully restored during their ownership! We
purchased it from the son who remembers riding home with his father
after they purchased it when he was only 10 years of age! The
restoration had begun in approximately 1983 and find completion in
1989, this show-quality Cadillac earned Best in Show honors at its
very first event! It has seen a meticulous cosmetic repaint that
included 8 coats of hand-rubbed lacquer and mechanical overhaul
worthy of high point honors. The visual quality is instantly seen
with the feel of being transported to a Cadillac showroom in 1948
for the first time. Turn the key and depress the starter button,
the engine jumps to life and quietly purrs. All the instrumentation
is perfectly functional, including the radio operation, dash clock,
all lighting, and locking glovebox. A real time capsule that also
receives rave reviews once out on the road. A well balanced and
smooth road car in every respect!
A remarkable Cadillac that will easily provide its next lucky owner
years of enjoyment! Included in the sale will be several boxed
take-off components, or replacement spares collected, along with an
owner's manual, Hydra-matic sales brochure, and a storage car
cover. The new Auburn Deluxe Radial tires were installed on this
vehicle in 2019, along with a carburetor rebuild, new engine
oil/filter, transmission mount, and front wheel bearing tightened
in 2024. This special purchase opportunity represents one of only
3,521 Series 61 Club Coupes built for the 1948 model year. With
many one-year only features, the last year of the durable flathead
engine, and remarkable restoration, it should make for a terrific
investment! Please feel free to contact us with any questions or to
schedule a chance to review it in person! Thanks as always for
looking!
