1949 Cadillac Fleetwood 60 Special

Description

The 1940s were a landmark period for Cadillac. At the close of the decade, GM debuted an almost completely redesigned lineup for the luxury brand featuring styling chief Harley Earl’s iconic Lockheed P38-inspired fenders and tail fins. Among the models wearing new bodywork was the recently rebadged ‘Fleetwood’ 60 Special, Cadillac’s top-of-the-line touring sedan marketed as ‘the most advanced motor car ever to bear the honored Cadillac name.’ The new 60 Special featured low-swept body lines and the signature decorative chrome louvers carried over from the previous model. A sophisticated interior now featured ‘Hydro-Lectric’ window regulators and a two-way hydraulically-adjustable bench seat as standard, as well as a completely redesigned instrument cluster for 1949. That year’s models were also the first to benefit from GM’s new 331 cu-in overhead-valve V8, producing 10 more horsepower while weighing 188 pounds less than its predecessor. This elegant 1949 Fleetwood 60 Special represents the pinnacle of American motoring at the time of its introduction and the standard for luxury cars for much of the succeeding decade. 

Highlights

• Exceptionally prepared, comfortable and reliable cruiser 

• Invoices totaling nearly $40,000 from August 2016 document a comprehensive mechanical and cosmetic refresh which included a complete overhaul of the electrical system, reassembly of the rear suspension, fitment of the radio and interior trim pieces, adjustment of the exhaust, rebuilding of the transmission mounts, and tuning of the engine  

• Highlights of a recent service in June 2021 include repairs to the hydraulic window and seat motor assemblies, the addition of a six-volt battery to the electrical system under the rear seat, and repairs to the clock and horn

• Wearing a lovely, period-correct two-tone finish of light gray over a dark gray hardtop

• The flowing coachwork featuring an industry-first pillarless hardtop is in good overall condition, free of any significant dents or scratches

• Starts and drives very well — engine is smooth, gear changes are seamless, steering is direct, suspension is comfortable, brakes are solid and responsive   

• Interior switches, instruments, lights, air conditioning, radio, and power equipment work as intended (Please review the known flaws for minor exceptions)

• Cabin features bench seats trimmed in light gray cloth upholstery with color-matching door cards and carpets, all of which are in good order

• Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via Cadillac’s ‘Hydra-Matic’ four-speed automatic transmission

• Showing 52,608 miles on the odometer at the time of cataloging 

Features

• 15-inch steel wheels wearing chrome covers

• Chrome louvers, simulated side scoops, and tail fins

• Three-spoke Bakelite steering wheel

• Pushbutton AM radio

• Clock

• Heater

• Power-operated windows

• Power-adjustable front bench seat

• Power-assisted drum brakes

• Independent knee-action front suspension

Known Flaws

• Light patina throughout the exterior finish, top and fenders beginning to show their age but still perfectly presentable

• Driver and passenger door lock pull knobs not operational

• Driver door lock tumbler for key not functional, key will go in and may just need lubrication

• Aftermarket door speakers not connected to the radio

• Clock is not operational

• Brightness rheostat for lights is intermittent

• Operation of the passenger front window from the driver switch is intermittent 

• Light staining on driver’s footwell carpet

Included 

• Jack

• Lug wrench

• Spare wheel

• Car cover

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Group Car Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner for this vehicle. Contact: Harrison Platz Phone: 610.304.4525 email: harrison.platz@broadarrowgroup.com