It’s very possible that the most successful Cadillac ever produced was the Series 62. Introduced for the 1940 model year to compete with the likes of the Packard 120, Lincoln Zephyr and Chrysler New Yorker, the Series 62 was Cadillac’s version of an entry-level luxury car. The traditional Cadillac trademarks of styling, interior comfort, equipment level and driving dynamics were combined with a respectably affordable price, immediately catapulting the model to the top of the sales chart. Suspended for World War II, the Series 62 returned in 1945 as a 1946 model, and it was actually the only Cadillac available for several months. Through the years, the Series 62 sustained as Cadillac’s top selling model. For 1957, Cadillac utilized a new frame that allowed the cars to sit lower to the ground, giving them a sportier look. In 1958, the frame remained, but the bodies were wholly restyled with more chrome and brightwork, longer and wider bodies, and quad headlight styling that gave the cars a larger look overall. While the public largely agreed with the new styling, sadly, an economic recession slowed sales down, even for the popular Series 62. However, most enthusiasts agree; the 1958 Cadillac, particularly in convertible form, was one of the best-looking cars of the era. This highly detailed Alpine White Cadillac is No. 2,831 of just 7,825 Series 62 convertibles built in 1958. A multiple- award-winning example, the Cadillac was the recipient of a full powertrain restoration completed about six months ago by Venom Classics in Mesa, Arizona. The original matching- numbers 365 CI V-8 is topped by the optional Rochester Tri-Power setup. Rated at 335 HP, the engine is joined with a 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. The red leather interior is protected by a power-operated, ivory-colored convertible top, and passengers will enjoy the Wonderbar AM radio with power antenna, power steering, power brakes, power front bench seat, Autronic eye and the other amenities for which Cadillacs are well known. Rolling on new wide whitewall Auburn Deluxe radial tires, the overall look is rounded out by full-width polished hubcaps.
