Lot details
Registration No: USA 253
Chassis No: 536257821
Mot Expiry: July 2009

Bestriding the American automobile industry like a colossus, Cadillac's claim that it was 'The Standard of the World' during the 1950s was not mere advertising hyperbole. In an era mesmerised by styling and horsepower, GM's flagship manufacturer delivered both on an epic scale. The work of Harley Earl trained stylist, Franklin Q. Hershey, its aeronautically inspired 'Tail Fin' motif proved a trend setter on both sides of the Atlantic. Available from 1949 onwards, Cadillac's new generation 331ci (5.4litre) OHV V8 was smaller, more powerful and almost 200lbs lighter than its L-head predecessor. Engineered by Ed Cole, Jack Gordon and Harry Barr, the cast-iron unit boasted a five-bearing crankshaft, wedge-shaped combustion chambers, 'slipper' pistons and hydraulic valve lifters. Renowned for its performance and refinement, the engine was cradled by a massive cruciform-braced modular chassis featuring independent coil-sprung front suspension, a well-located 'live' rear axle and potent drum brakes. Riding and handling with a dexterity that belied their imposing proportions, the 1953 model-year Cadillacs were visually distinguished via a redesigned grille, sill-hugging chrome strip, heavier bumpers / bumper guards, hooded headlights and repositioned parking lights etc. Second only to the legendary Eldorado within the Series 62 hierarchy (albeit a useful 300lbs lighter), the 6-person Convertible was priced at $4,144. Accounting for just 8,367 sales (less than ten percent of total Cadillac production that year), the model had a reputed 210bhp and 322lbft of torque on tap. A veritable 'Wurlitzer on Wheels' with 100mph plus potential, the glamorous drop-top benefited from standard fit 'Hydro-Matic' automatic transmission and an intriguing options list.

Finished in Baby Blue with blue / white leather upholstery, this particular left-hand drive example is described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, automatic transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork. The subject of an extensive restoration which the seller believes "could not be replicated for £100,000" 'USA 523' is quite probably the finest 1953 Series 62 Convertible in the country. Sporting such desirable extras as a self-seeking radio, 'Autronic Eye' automatic headlamp beam control, power steering, wire wheels, hydraulic window lifts and whitewall tyres, the six-seater brings a whole new meaning to the phrase 'road presence'. Equally at home on London's Kings Road, Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive or Monte Carlo's Casino Square, this magnificent Cadillac is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until July 2009. To quote a well-worn expression: 'Seeing is Believing!'

PLEASE NOTE: The vendor has recently replaced the rear silencers on this vehicle's exhaust system. Unfortunately, the new rear silencers have increased have increased the back pressure in the exhaust system and caused the baffles in the front silencers to loosen. The vendor has ordered some new front silencers and these will be forwarded to the successful purchaser.