1950 Convertible Automatic

Price: US $64,995.00 Item location: Local pick-up only
Description:

1950 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible

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!