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by Lynne Lupold

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In 1959, General Motors set out to redesign the Cadillac 62 series, originally introduced in 1941. Prompted by the spirit of competition with the Chrysler corporation's '57 "Forward Look", the 62 series went on to become what Cadillac refers to as their, "landmark car that became synonymous with the brand's character of the period."

Inspired by the look of a jet plane and controversial from its start, the 1959 Cadillac was the invention of the Ed Glowacke and his design team who set out to "out-fin" Chrysler. With towering tailfins and dual-bullet taillights over a low to the ground, tapered-back body, this car represented the post-war optimism and affluence of the era. The interior of the 1959 Cadillac also featured a variety of innovations from the metallic fabrics to the door-open mechanisms.

While these tremendous design changes remain the vanguard features of the 1959 62 series, there were many worthwhile technical improvements including taking the engine size from a 365 to a 390 cubic inch V-8 with a standard 325 horses. With power braking and steering coming standard, these cars also boasted a new direct-acting power brake booster and automatic-release parking brake. Each Caddy body sat on a strength producing tubular X- frame, and extended nearly 19 feet over a 130 inch wheel base.

62 series drivers could choose from no less than four distinct models, all with their own unique design innovations and body styles. Both at a price of $5,080, the four door, four window hardtop sedan became known as the "Flat top," while the new four door, six window sedan featured a small fixed window on the newly tapered c-pillar, providing more visibility for driver and passengers alike. The less expensive two door Coupe, available at the time for a factory price of $4,892, is often mistaken for the 1959 Coupe de Ville, but came with less standard accessories. Perhaps the showiest of the 62 series was the Cadillac convertible. Selling for $5,455, this aircraft of the highways featured all leather interior, and with just over 11,000 made, they sell today for well over a hundred grand a piece.

In 1959, owners could choose from nearly countless options including the very popular radio with rear speaker and remote control for $247, the automatic heating system for $129, air conditioning for $474, and the remote control trunk lock for a mere $59. While the drivers of 1959 may have been purchasing the Cadillac for its outrageous style and undeniable innovation, today's owners, including late night television host Jay Leno who owns the six window sedan, know they are driving not only a classic car, but a priceless piece of American history.

Learn more about this author, Lynne Lupold.

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