Vehicle Description
Cadillacs were truly the envy of the world when this 1955 Series 62
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, this car
combines that big '50s look with some modern tech.
While the legend of the pink Cadillac has grown, there's still
nothing like a big, black Cadillac to really command respect. The
handsome two-tone white-over-black combination on this big hardtop
is a great example that's striking in a low-profile kind of way. It
also helps minimize the enormous size of the Series 62, even the
2-doors like this, 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 in
very good condition, from the pointed "Dagmars" up front (look it
up) to the distinctive faux air vents just behind the doors that
were an evolution of the 1954 design, everything has been polished
to a high shine. Even the original EZI glass is still in place and
all but unobtainable today.
The interior is done in period style, but there are a whole lot of
upgrades. It starts 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, new carpets, and black paint
on the dash give it a cosmopolitan air that suggests an artist at
work here, and all the little trim bits shine brightly. From behind
the wheel, you can instantly see the upgrades, starting with the
billet steering wheel on a tilt column, plus a full set of Auto
Meter gauges in a custom panel that slots neatly into the original
dash. Under-dash A/C has been added, as well as a digital AM/FM
stereo radio and power windows for the front doors. The massive
trunk has simple cloth mats and carries its spare inside along with
a remote-mounted battery.
Cadillac's 331 cubic inch V8 engine was still the talk of the
industry in 1955, but that's not to say a great thing can't be made
better. Today, this Cadillac carries a 6.0 liter LS V8 from a
late-model pickup, and the improvement in performance is shocking.
It starts easily and idles perfectly, a direct result of OEM
software running the show, and the flat torque curve is ideal for
the big, heavy Caddy. Performance is brisk, with a smooth,
expensive-sounding hum from the well-damped Flowmaster dual exhaust
system. They worked to keep the engine bay looking fairly OEM,
although the big aluminum radiator, Vortec engine cover, and dual
reservoir master cylinder give it away somewhat. The 4L60E 4-speed
automatic transmission is a durable, reliable piece and this big
yacht will cruise at modern highway speeds effortlessly thanks to
highway gears in the original rear end. Power steering and brakes
are mandatory on a beast this size, and 235/75/15 whitewall radials
wear Cadillac wheelcovers to complete the illusion.
Nothing could touch Cadillac's combination of luxury and
performance in the '50s, and it made them an icon. The only thing
that can make it better is modern reliability, comfort and
performance, and this big Cadillac definitely delivers. Call
today!