1955 Cadillac Series 62 Restomod

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!