If we could select one car from the Raleigh Classic auction that hearkens back to classic Americana, the 1953 Cadillac Series 62 is the logical choice. It is the exact car you would expect to cruise down the street with The Chairman of the Board or some doo-wop group resounding from the speakers. From the cream-colored soft top to the lustrous chrome, every inch of this car is impressive.
The Cadillac Series 62 was produced from 1940 until 1964, when it was renamed the Calais – the last of which rolled off the production line in 1976.
In 1953, the Series 62 underwent a few redesigns from previous models. A heavier integral bumper and bumper guards encapsulated its wide grille, which added more lustrous chrome to complement the typically dark paint of the model. Cadillac added chrome “eyebrows” above the headlights, as well as repositioned parking lamps below them. The automaker, greatly interested in improving aesthetics in any regard, fashioned the wheel discs look more attractive.
Series 62 distinguished itself from other Cadillac models by non-louvered rear fenders, metal underscores at the bottom rear of the car, and the classic Cadillac crests with V-shaped ornaments. Also, by this iteration of the Series 62, all came as two-door hardtops or convertibles; consumers also had the option to upgrade to the Coupe de Ville or Eldorado. The latter of the two would become its own series.
This car enjoyed praise for its throng of deluxe accessories, including wire wheels, and, for the first time, had wraparound windshields that became standard production. As a result of all that it offered, the series 62 set a sales record of 85,446 sold units.
Raleigh Classic has an extraordinary Series 62 previously in the collection of the late Jim Miller of Baden, Ontario, Canada. This lot has purchase paperwork, as well as Mr. Miller’s assessment of his model being the “Best Restored” in existence. Speed Vision recently featured it because of its pristine body fit, layer straightness, and paint. The exterior color is described as Royalty; the interior, carpets, and convertible top are finished to exacting standards. There is an assortment of equipment and options, including power steering, power windows, power brakes, power top, and wire wheels. This model is mechanically sound with instantaneous engine ignition and smooth transmission.
You can read more about the 1953 Cadillac Series 62 here. The listing includes a great number of pictures to demonstrate how clean and superb this vehicle is.