Cadillac Series 62 cars were built by General Motors during 1941-1964. A forefather to today's Seville, Series 62's rising tail-fins with their red bullet lamps of gave wings to a a nation's rising aspirations at the beginning of the 1960's.

Cadillac Series 62 was a total departure from traditional rounded curves to bold tapering lines. But instead of feeling outraged, America embraced them with open arms. There were also worthwhile technical improvements: a larger 390 cu.in., V-8 engine with 325 standard horsepower. Acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour could be achieved in 11 seconds.

1959 saw the advent of the larger C-bodies with curved-top windshields, thin-section roof-lines, slim roof pillars, tall fins with dual bullet tail-lamps.

Today, the fins are considered to be the representations of an era of confidence as manned space vehicles were racing to the skies.

These luxury cars were meant for six passengers including the driver. For the first time Cadillac convertibles sported automatically operated tops. The headlamps went auto sensing, coming on at dusk and dipping with oncoming traffic.

Air-ride suspension became available but with teething troubles. The other improvement was the addition of a power steering.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 1959 CADILLAC SERIES 62

CLASS: 2-door 6W Sedan
Versions: club coupe/ 4-door sedan,/4-door convertible
Wheelbase: 130 in (3302 mm)

ENGINE
Position: Front-end
Valve-train: OHV
Drive: Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)
Weight 4834 lbs ( 2192 kg)
Cylinders: 8, Valves 16 valves (2 valves/cylinder)
Displacement: 390 cu.in., 6392 cc (6.4 L)

PERFORMANCE
Power: 325.00 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque: 430 ft-lb @ 3000.00 rpm
Fuel feed: 3 dual-barrel carburetors
Weight to Power Ratio: 14.9 lb/hp
Compression Ratio: 10.5:1

TRANSMISSION
4-speed Automatic

BRAKES
Drum brakes

After almost a quarter century run, the Cadillac 62 series ended in 1964 when the 6200 series took over. The body was designed by Harley Earl. Though comparatively costly and slow, they were sleek and comfortable. They are hotly sought after collectibles today with their tall, disproportionate fins and unique styling, evoking memories of an era of Mercuries and Apollos hurtling towards the outer space!

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