To be sold at the Gooding & Company Amelia Island Auction on March 8, 2013. For further details please visit www.goodingco.com or contact a vehicle specialist at 001.310.899.1960 or specialist@goodingco.com.
Engine Specifications:
331 CID OHV V-8 Engine
Carter Two-Barrel Carburetor
160 BHP at 3,800 RPM
4-Speed Hydra-Matic Transmission
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Independent Front Suspension
Live Rear Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs
About this Car:
As many luxury automakers struggled to retool and start building cars with all-new designs following WWII, Cadillac emerged once again as the leader in the ultra-luxury segment as the “standard of the world.”
For 1949, the brand-new 331 cid overhead valve V-8 engine replaced the flathead and offered 160 hp. The new “valve-in-head” V-8 was smoother, quieter, better performing, and more economical to maintain than the previous mainstays of Cadillac power. With 10% higher displacement and nearly 15% more horsepower, the new engine also weighed less than the 1948 variant. The American Motor Press endorsed the motor, saying it was yet another milestone in Cadillac’s long list of industry firsts.
Visually the Series 62 was unique in many ways. The front fender stone shields and rocker panel moldings were grooved. The hood line was extended, which provided the 1949 Cadillacs with an even longer, sleeker look. A new and distinctive grille treatment spanned the width of the front end from fender to fender, emphasizing a lower, wider stance. Inside, a fully modernized interior featured a new instrument panel layout, door top moldings, and a stylish array of materials.
This California-borne 1949 Cadillac is presented in Cadillac’s stunning 1953 color scheme of Alpine White with tan interior and tan top. As a convertible coupe, this Cadillac came standard equipped with power windows; a power top; an all-leather interior; and color- matched, painted dashboard; chrome wheel discs; and fender spear trim, components that all continue to present beautifully today. Its restoration was completed in 2005 and has been shown and toured little since. The paint, chrome, and trim are all in fine condition and appear nearly blemish free. The power-assisted top functions and shows without fault, and the interior is equally well presented.
Under the hood is a show-level-prepared engine bay with the original V-8 engine and all-correct accessories. Likewise, the trunk is also tidy and has the original California black plate that was on this car. A glance underneath reveals an impressive undercarriage with only very minor dust accumulated over time and occasional touring.
1949 marked the last of the ultra-desirable split windshield Cadillacs and this example, reported to be fully sorted and as handsome as it was when new, is ready for a new proud owner to enter it at local shows, as well as a host of tours and rallies.
↧