Vintage Cadillac Luxury, Original 331 V8, 4 Speed Automatic, Tan

1954 Cadillac Other Coupe 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!